Backcountry Journeys Presents
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Swiss Alps in Autumn
Swiss Alps in Autumn
October 15 - 24, 2025
October 14 - 23, 2026
Led by Keenan Hursh
October 14 - 23, 2026
Led by Keenan Hursh
Capture the Magic of the Swiss Alps in Peak Fall Color!
Capture the Magic of the Swiss Alps in Peak Fall Color!
We connect passionate people to exceptional experiences.
We connect passionate people to exceptional experiences.
The Swiss Alps: Iconic Beauty and Long-Awaited Adventure
The Swiss Alps have long been a dream destination for photographers, offering a mix of towering peaks, pristine glacial lakes, and charming alpine villages. This highly anticipated journey takes you to iconic locations like Zermatt, the Matterhorn, and the Aletsch Glacier, each carefully selected for their breathtaking beauty and photographic potential. From tranquil mornings at Riffelsee to sweeping vistas in the Swiss National Park, every stop on the itinerary is a masterpiece waiting to be captured. Join us on this incredible adventure and experience the timeless allure of the Swiss Alps!
Symphony of Color: Autumn at Its Peak in Switzerland
Step into the vibrant hues of Switzerland’s autumn, where golden larch trees, fiery red foliage, and crisp blue skies create a striking contrast against snow-dusted peaks and glacial landscapes. Carefully timed for peak fall color, this workshop offers photographers the chance to capture nature’s most vibrant palette in the Swiss Alps. Each scene, from the golden forests surrounding Oeschinensee to the contrasts of the Aletsch Glacier, is a masterpiece of seasonal beauty waiting to be framed through your lens. Don’t just see the colors—embrace their symphony!
Mountain Lodging in Iconic Locations
Mountain Lodging in Iconic Locations
Stay in thoughtfully chosen accommodations that perfectly complement your journey through the Swiss Alps. Spend a night atop Gornergrat, where you can admire the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks from your doorstep, and wake to a sunrise that lights up the alpine landscape. In Bettmeralp, a peaceful car-free village, enjoy a quiet retreat surrounded by autumn colors and views of the Aletsch Glacier. Each lodging has been selected for its comfort, charm, and proximity to the beautiful locations on our itinerary, ensuring you can relax and recharge while staying close to the heart of the Alps.
Swiss Experience: Cable Cars, Cogwheel Trains, and Car-Free Towns
Swiss Experience: Cable Cars, Cogwheel Trains, and Car-Free Towns
Discover the authentic charm of Switzerland as you explore its iconic mountain landscapes the way locals do—by cable cars, cogwheel trains, and scenic footpaths. From the historic cogwheel railway to Gornergrat, offering sweeping alpine views, to tranquil car-free villages like Bettmeralp and Zermatt, every journey is part of the experience. Glide effortlessly over valleys and peaks on scenic cable cars, gaining easy access to breathtaking viewpoints. These unique modes of transport provide not just convenience but a true immersion in Swiss culture, making the journey as memorable as the destination.
Guided by Experts: A World-Class Team with Swiss Roots
Your adventure through the Swiss Alps will be guided by a team of experienced professionals who bring unparalleled expertise and local knowledge. Our partners, who also help guide our acclaimed Patagonia trips, are deeply connected to the region and have crafted this itinerary with care and precision. Their Swiss roots ensure every detail is thoughtfully planned, from the timing of peak fall color to the seamless logistics of navigating car-free villages and remote alpine locations. Paired with Backcountry Journeys’ commitment to personalized instruction and small group sizes, this team delivers a photography experience that is both inspiring and expertly executed.
Available Departures
These dates are expected to sell out quickly!
Oct. 15-24, 2025
LIMITED TO 10 PHOTOGRAPHERS
Trip Leader(s)
Keenan Hursh
Keenan Hursh
Starting From
$8,995.00
$8,995.00
Single Supplement:
+$1,500
+$1,500
Deposit: $4,000
Oct. 14-23, 2026
LIMITED TO 10 PHOTOGRAPHERS
Trip Leader(s)
Keenan Hursh
Keenan Hursh
Starting From
$9,495.00
$9,495.00
Single Supplement:
+$1,500
+$1,500
Deposit: $4,000
Start/End
Start: Zürich, Switzerland (ZRH)
End: Zürich, Switzerland (ZRH)
End: Zürich, Switzerland (ZRH)
Dates
10/15/25 - 10/24/25
10/14/26 - 10/23/26
10/14/26 - 10/23/26
Fitness Level
Level 2 - What's This
Group Size
Limited to 10 guests
Highlights
Picturesque locations including Zermatt, Matterhorn, Oeschinensee, Bettmeralp, Aletsch Arena, and Swiss National Park
Iconic Matterhorn views and sunrise shoot at Riffelsee, with the mountain reflecting in the lake
Aletsch Glacier exploration: Europe’s longest glacier, and we’ll see it with stunning autumn colors
Scenic cable cars and cogwheel trains for easy access to spectacular vantage points
This Special Trip Departure is valid for new trip reservations only (no transfers, trip credit, or discounts).
Trip Itinerary
Enter a World Of Alpine Magic
Enter a World Of Alpine Magic
Most meals are included – (B, L, D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1: Arrival in Zürich (D)
We arrive in Zürich (ZRH) and transfers will take us to our hotel in Zürich. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner at the hotel or a nearby restaurant in downtown Zürich, where you can meet fellow travelers and learn more about the exciting journey ahead. Overnight in Zürich.
Day 2: Zürich to Kandersteg (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we depart Zürich and head to the charming mountain village of Kandersteg in the Bernese Highlands. A scenic cable car ride takes us up to Lake Oeschinen, a stunning glacial lake surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. We’ll spend the afternoon here, allowing plenty of time to capture the beauty of the Swiss Alps! Overnight in Kandersteg.
Day 3: Kandersteg to Zermatt (B, L, D)
This morning, we ascend by cable car to the Sunnbüel plateau, a tranquil spot filled with small alpine lakes, vibrant forests, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Later, we travel by train to the renowned, car-free village of Zermatt. Here, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the iconic Matterhorn, whose pyramid shape dominates the skyline. Overnight in Zermatt.
Day 4: Zermatt and Surroundings (B, L, D)
Today, we ascend to Europe’s highest cable car station, perched nearly 13,000 feet above sea level, where we are surrounded by dramatic glaciers, rugged rock faces, and endless mountain peaks. There’s ample time for snow walks, photography, and soaking in the views from various observation platforms. In the afternoon, we’ll explore the charming village of Zermatt, with its traditional alpine architecture, hidden paths, and rich history. Overnight in Zermatt.
Day 5: Sunnegga and Gornergrat (B, L, D)
Our morning takes us to Sunnegga, a viewpoint renowned for stunning views of the Matterhorn framed by vibrant autumn larch trees and a serene mountain lake. Later, we board the cogwheel railway to Gornergrat, where the scenery shifts to a high alpine landscape. The golden and orange hues of the trees in the lower areas contrast beautifully with the rugged peaks. We spend the night atop Gornergrat.
Day 6: Gornergrat to Bettmeralp (B, L, D)
An early start brings us on a gentle downhill hike to Lake Riffelsee, where the morning light often bathes the Matterhorn in a red glow, reflected beautifully in the lake's still waters. After our sunrise photos, we return to Gornergrat for more panoramic views before heading down to Zermatt. Our journey continues to Bettmeralp, a car-free mountain village in the Aletsch Arena, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Overnight in Bettmeralp.
Day 7: Exploring the Aletsch Glacier (B, L, D)
We spend the day admiring the Big Aletsch Glacier, the longest in Europe, stretching over 12 miles. The glacier is framed by autumn foliage, blending yellow and orange against the blue skies and snow-capped peaks. Bettmeralp’s car-free atmosphere enhances the tranquil beauty of this alpine paradise. Overnight in Bettmeralp.
Day 8: Bettmeralp to Zernez (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we descend by cable car to the Rhône Valley, where a private transfer awaits. We’ll enjoy a leisurely day making our way to the Engadin Valley and the charming village of Zernez, the gateway to Switzerland’s only national park. Along the way, we’ll have chances to photograph and appreciate the diverse landscapes. Overnight in Zernez.
Day 9: Swiss National Park (B, L, D)
Today we explore the pristine beauty of the Swiss National Park, located in southeastern Switzerland. Known for its rich biodiversity, this park offers countless photographic opportunities with its scenic trails, mountain views, and alpine wildlife. The well-marked paths make for easy hikes, allowing us to immerse ourselves fully in the tranquility of this untouched natural haven. Overnight in Zernez.
Day 10: Architecture of the Engadin Valley (B, L)
The Engadin Valley is famous for its unique, well-preserved architecture, set against a spectacular natural backdrop of mountains, forests, and the flowing Inn River. On this final morning, we’ll explore some of the valley’s most beautiful buildings and capture the harmony between traditional architecture and the surrounding landscape. After lunch, we'll depart for the airport in Zürich where our flights back home await us.
Fitness: This is a Level 2 trip because it will incorporate some elements of hiking not normally featured in our Level 1 trips. We will be utilizing public transport and we may walk on cobblestoned streets or established trails for up to 4 miles in total on several days.
Switzerland is renowned for its diverse and often extreme altitudes. Experiences will vary for each individual, but mild elevation sickness may include symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and/or fatigue.
Please familiarize yourself with the CDC's recommendations about acclimatization before traveling.
Altitudes of the locations on this trip:
• Zürich: 1,339 ft
• Kandersteg: 3,900 ft
• Zermatt: 5,315 ft
• Gornergrat: 10,285 ft
• Bettmeralp: 6,460 ft
• Zernez: 4,836 ft
Hiking Details:
• Day 2 (Kandersteg Oeschinensee): 30-minute hike from the cable car station to the lake. Accessible gravel roads (lake is accessible even with a stroller), 330 ft downhill. The hike back will be the same path in reverse.
• Day 3 (Kandersteg Sunnbüel): 4 miles in total (loop). 400 ft elevation gain on a mixture of gravel roads and well-maintained hiking paths.
• Day 6 (Gornergrat): High alpine environment, with relatively easy walking paths. Those who wish to go for the sunrise at Riffelsee Lake (one of the best spots for photographing the Matterhorn) will need to hike 1100 ft downhill on a marked mountain trail approximately 1 mile. Some sections are steep, but the terrain isn't dangerous. The train doesn’t operate early enough in the morning for sunrise, but we'll be able to take the train back to Gornergrat after sunrise.
• Bettmeralp: There are some easily accessible viewpoints which are really worth visiting. There are scenic areas even within the village itself. If we’d like to go further outside the village, we’ll walk on hiking paths. These are more traditional mountain trails instead of gravel roads, but they aren't difficult.
• Days 8 - 10 (Engadin / Swiss National Park): Easy terrain with either gravel roads or simple hiking paths with very little elevation gain.
Day 1: Arrival in Zürich (D)
We arrive in Zürich (ZRH) and transfers will take us to our hotel in Zürich. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner at the hotel or a nearby restaurant in downtown Zürich, where you can meet fellow travelers and learn more about the exciting journey ahead. Overnight in Zürich.
Day 2: Zürich to Kandersteg (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we depart Zürich and head to the charming mountain village of Kandersteg in the Bernese Highlands. A scenic cable car ride takes us up to Lake Oeschinen, a stunning glacial lake surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. We’ll spend the afternoon here, allowing plenty of time to capture the beauty of the Swiss Alps! Overnight in Kandersteg.
Day 3: Kandersteg to Zermatt (B, L, D)
This morning, we ascend by cable car to the Sunnbüel plateau, a tranquil spot filled with small alpine lakes, vibrant forests, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Later, we travel by train to the renowned, car-free village of Zermatt. Here, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the iconic Matterhorn, whose pyramid shape dominates the skyline. Overnight in Zermatt.
Day 4: Zermatt and Surroundings (B, L, D)
Today, we ascend to Europe’s highest cable car station, perched nearly 13,000 feet above sea level, where we are surrounded by dramatic glaciers, rugged rock faces, and endless mountain peaks. There’s ample time for snow walks, photography, and soaking in the views from various observation platforms. In the afternoon, we’ll explore the charming village of Zermatt, with its traditional alpine architecture, hidden paths, and rich history. Overnight in Zermatt.
Day 5: Sunnegga and Gornergrat (B, L, D)
Our morning takes us to Sunnegga, a viewpoint renowned for stunning views of the Matterhorn framed by vibrant autumn larch trees and a serene mountain lake. Later, we board the cogwheel railway to Gornergrat, where the scenery shifts to a high alpine landscape. The golden and orange hues of the trees in the lower areas contrast beautifully with the rugged peaks. We spend the night atop Gornergrat.
Day 6: Gornergrat to Bettmeralp (B, L, D)
An early start brings us on a gentle downhill hike to Lake Riffelsee, where the morning light often bathes the Matterhorn in a red glow, reflected beautifully in the lake's still waters. After our sunrise photos, we return to Gornergrat for more panoramic views before heading down to Zermatt. Our journey continues to Bettmeralp, a car-free mountain village in the Aletsch Arena, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Overnight in Bettmeralp.
Day 7: Exploring the Aletsch Glacier (B, L, D)
We spend the day admiring the Big Aletsch Glacier, the longest in Europe, stretching over 12 miles. The glacier is framed by autumn foliage, blending yellow and orange against the blue skies and snow-capped peaks. Bettmeralp’s car-free atmosphere enhances the tranquil beauty of this alpine paradise. Overnight in Bettmeralp.
Day 8: Bettmeralp to Zernez (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we descend by cable car to the Rhône Valley, where a private transfer awaits. We’ll enjoy a leisurely day making our way to the Engadin Valley and the charming village of Zernez, the gateway to Switzerland’s only national park. Along the way, we’ll have chances to photograph and appreciate the diverse landscapes. Overnight in Zernez.
Day 9: Swiss National Park (B, L, D)
Today we explore the pristine beauty of the Swiss National Park, located in southeastern Switzerland. Known for its rich biodiversity, this park offers countless photographic opportunities with its scenic trails, mountain views, and alpine wildlife. The well-marked paths make for easy hikes, allowing us to immerse ourselves fully in the tranquility of this untouched natural haven. Overnight in Zernez.
Day 10: Architecture of the Engadin Valley (B, L)
The Engadin Valley is famous for its unique, well-preserved architecture, set against a spectacular natural backdrop of mountains, forests, and the flowing Inn River. On this final morning, we’ll explore some of the valley’s most beautiful buildings and capture the harmony between traditional architecture and the surrounding landscape. After lunch, we'll depart for the airport in Zürich where our flights back home await us.
Fitness: This is a Level 2 trip because it will incorporate some elements of hiking not normally featured in our Level 1 trips. We will be utilizing public transport and we may walk on cobblestoned streets or established trails for up to 4 miles in total on several days.
Switzerland is renowned for its diverse and often extreme altitudes. Experiences will vary for each individual, but mild elevation sickness may include symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and/or fatigue.
Please familiarize yourself with the CDC's recommendations about acclimatization before traveling.
Altitudes of the locations on this trip:
• Zürich: 1,339 ft
• Kandersteg: 3,900 ft
• Zermatt: 5,315 ft
• Gornergrat: 10,285 ft
• Bettmeralp: 6,460 ft
• Zernez: 4,836 ft
Hiking Details:
• Day 2 (Kandersteg Oeschinensee): 30-minute hike from the cable car station to the lake. Accessible gravel roads (lake is accessible even with a stroller), 330 ft downhill. The hike back will be the same path in reverse.
• Day 3 (Kandersteg Sunnbüel): 4 miles in total (loop). 400 ft elevation gain on a mixture of gravel roads and well-maintained hiking paths.
• Day 6 (Gornergrat): High alpine environment, with relatively easy walking paths. Those who wish to go for the sunrise at Riffelsee Lake (one of the best spots for photographing the Matterhorn) will need to hike 1100 ft downhill on a marked mountain trail approximately 1 mile. Some sections are steep, but the terrain isn't dangerous. The train doesn’t operate early enough in the morning for sunrise, but we'll be able to take the train back to Gornergrat after sunrise.
• Bettmeralp: There are some easily accessible viewpoints which are really worth visiting. There are scenic areas even within the village itself. If we’d like to go further outside the village, we’ll walk on hiking paths. These are more traditional mountain trails instead of gravel roads, but they aren't difficult.
• Days 8 - 10 (Engadin / Swiss National Park): Easy terrain with either gravel roads or simple hiking paths with very little elevation gain.
What's Included
What's Included
All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
All transportation during the workshop including trains, buses, boats, cable cars and cogwheel railways as stated in the itinerary
All lodging during the workshop
Airport transfers
Luggage transfer services
All permits and park fees
Professional photography guiding and instruction
- Gratuity for service staff and private bus driver
What's Not Included
What's Not Included
Flights to and from Zürich, Switzerland (ZRH)
Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
Lodging outside workshop dates
Alcoholic beverages
Souvenirs and personal items
Gratuity for photography guide(s). Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities
- Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS,
WORKSHOPS & SAFARIS
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS,
WORKSHOPS & SAFARIS
WORKSHOPS & SAFARIS
Backcountry Journeys offers over 100 global photography tours and workshops, spanning iconic U.S. National Parks to the wild savannahs of Africa, catering to all interests and skill levels. As one of the top-rated, all-inclusive providers in the industry, we ensure a highly personalized and memorable experience that's rooted in our deep passion for photography.
UNPARALLELED
PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
UNPARALLELED
PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
Discover over 100 global photography tours and workshops, from U.S. National Parks to Africa's savannahs, designed for all skill levels. Enjoy personalized experiences with our small groups and hands-on guidance from certified photo instructors.
THE BEST TEAM IN THE BUSINESS
THE BEST TEAM IN THE BUSINESS
Our team handles all logistics, ensuring a seamless experience, supported by an on-call support line. World-class Trip Planners meticulously plan every detail, while our exceptional customer service ensures your experience exceeds expectations.
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY
Our adventures blend breathtaking locations with lasting connections among like-minded photographers. We foster a warm, inclusive atmosphere that encourages friendships beyond the trip.
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We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
