alpine

“This party was beyond their skill level in these areas, both in terms of climbing and general alpine movement,” the organization said in an incident report.

Both parks feature massive granite mountains, gorgeous rivers and alpine meadows.

Tourists enjoying the picture postcard views of Lakes Lucerne, Thun or Lake Neuchatel might be surprised to learn what lies beneath those pristine alpine waters.

It’s dangerous for them, because many are not experienced hikers or climbers, but it’s worse for the alpine flora and fauna.

Enjoy a leisurely ramble through the beginning of the old-growth Heart O’ the Forest trail, or a more heart-pounding excursion to alpine wildflower meadows at Heather Park.