Engstlenalp, source of the Gental water

The Gental lies within the municipality of Innertkirchen, since the merger with Gadmen on January 1, 2014, the largest municipality by area in the canton of Bern. Part of the hike passes through the half-canton of Nidwalden. The Gental water is used for electricity generation by the Oberhasli power plants. The intakes are located lower than the hike, so you encounter only untouched waters on the hike. Even the approach by post bus promises enjoyment thanks to the view of numerous waterfalls. At the starting point of the hike by the main signpost, the direction Jochpass Trüebsee is to be taken. Shortly after, a fork follows where you should go straight to Jochpass; the left turn marked Schaftal Jochpass is to be ignored. On an alpine road, later path over meadows, the route goes north past Engstlensee. It charms with its emerald green color and waterfalls that pour into the lake. Now the path ascends through alpine meadows. Shortly before the top station of the chairlift, the route turns sharply left towards Schaftal. The following section, a high-altitude hike, offers views of the surrounding mountain peaks, into Gental, and partly of Engstlen-, Tannen- and Melchsee. Surefootedness is required here. Continuing to ascend, passing some exposed sections, the path climbs through alpine meadows and over rock to point 2323, the highest point of the hike. The descent via Schaftal and further in the direction of Tannalp continues mostly on a mountain path, two short sections on a forest road. In Tannalp, a left turn to Engstlenalp is to be taken, which can be reached on a mountain path.