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Obergoms
Obergoms
Obergoms is a Swiss district in the Valais (Wallis) canton which includes the towns of Ulrichen, Obergesteln and Oberwald. The Obergoms name is a proposed political amalgamation of existing districts. Other major ski resorts nearby include Crans-Montana and Zermatt.A picturesque area at the foot of the Grimsel and Furka passes, this is a well-known ski-resort area specialises in cross-country skiing from Oberwald to Niederwald. The Rhone Glacier is nearby and is one of several areas focusing on winter sports with sustained snowy conditions in a particularly cold climate. The Hunger Mountain is the focus of downhill skiing and has access via a chair lift and two ski lifts. There are three individual pistes.
In summertime, 750Km of marked hiking trails network this area between altitudes of 1000ft and 3000ft. These trails take in ancient passes used for centuries with panoramic views over picturesque landscapes, forests and rugged cliffs ravaged by the effects of glaciation. Guided hiking tours are available and panoramic maps are free at tourist outlets. 300Km of fast downhill mountain-biking routes are for the more experienced rider, ideal for advanced training or for challenges.
Canyoning is an emergent sport, combining the skills and agility of rock-climbing with the challenge of climbing upstream in ice-cold glacial waters. Experienced guides lead expeditions through glacial gorges gouged out by torrents of meltwater from glaciers and mountain snows to carve spectacular ravines, gorges and canyons through the rock - the ultimate all-year round sporting challenge and an alternative to skiing.