This past weekend, 10 LAS students set off on a true Swiss adventure, one that combined discovery, bonding, and exceptionally dramatic and beautiful views.

Within a short train ride from Leysin lies the Aletsch Glacier—the largest glacier in the Alps! Stretching 23 kilometers in length and covering 80 square kilometers in area, this glacier was truly a wonder for our students to behold.

The weekend's journey began with train and gondola rides before students set off on foot to descend from the Bettmerhorn lift (starting at over 2,300 meters!) to traverse a trail that sat above the mighty Aletsch Glacier.

Along the way, students soaked in sweeping views of the famous Bernese Alps, including the Jungfrau, Mönch, and the iconic Eiger—all at or above 4,000 meters! These mountains, along with the Aletsch Glacier, are all part of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site.

That evening, the group arrived at a mountain hut where they were warmly welcomed with a traditional Swiss dinner. Cozy and content, they spent the evening playing card games, sharing stories, and forming new friendships across different grades and nationalities.

The next morning began with a hearty alpine breakfast of oats, bread, cheese, and meats before the group hiked down glacier-polished granite slabs to reach the edge of the Aletsch Glacier itself. Students were able to touch the ice, ask questions about its formation, and reflect on its importance as a natural resource. Their curiosity sparked thoughtful conversations about how glaciers shape the environment and how climate change is impacting their size and strength.

The adventure then continued upward, as students climbed nearly 700 meters to the summit of the Eggishorn for a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Aletsch Glacier in all its grandeur. Over a traditional Swiss lunch at a mountainside chalet, they marveled at the immensity of the glacier and observed firsthand the markings that showed how much it has receded over time.

The journey concluded with a gondola ride and train connections before returning to Leysin, which was an unforgettable travel experience in itself.

This adventure not only gave our students a deeper appreciation for the Swiss Alps and glaciers, but it also strengthened friendships, encouraged resilience, and inspired a sense of responsibility for our environment—all while enjoying the magic of life in Switzerland.