HikeMetrics
Global Hiking Index
HikeMetrics
Global Hiking Index
HikeMetrics // Comparison Engine
Route A

Le Bout du Monde (Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)

france/Alps (Haute-Savoie)
VS
Route B

Reykjadalur

iceland/South Iceland

Le Bout du Monde (Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval) vs Reykjadalur: Intensity Score Comparison

Both routes share a similar overall intensity (15 vs 16). Depending on personal strengths, the challenge relies more on Le Bout du Monde (Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)'s technicality versus the physical output of the other.

Model-based (not a field report) · Evaluates overall route demand, not danger.

Intensity Difference
+1 Reykjadalur is harder
Higher Physical Load
Reykjadalur
Higher Technical Seriousness
Le Bout du Monde (Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)
Greater Commitment
Le Bout du Monde (Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)
Overall HikeMetrics Score
Le Bout du Monde (Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)wins 5 of 8 metrics
5
Route A
3
Route B
france/Alps (Haute-Savoie)

Le Bout du Monde (Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)

LOW // ACCESS
Full Route Report

Translated literally as 'The End of the World', this spectacular 8km loop is located in the immense limestone amphitheater of the Cirque du Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval. Surrounded by towering 2,000-meter cliffs, this is a predominantly flat, welcoming walk that traces the Giffre river to its source. It is perfect for those seeking high-alpine drama without the grueling climbs usually required to find it. Note: Compiled from public sources — not a field report.

iceland/South Iceland

Reykjadalur

STANDARD // RT
Full Route Report

Reykjadalur translates to 'Steam Valley,' an aptly named geothermal area where a moderate hike leads to a naturally heated river. Located near the town of Hveragerði (approx. 45 minutes from Reykjavík), this 7.4km round-trip route is a popular destination for those seeking an authentic outdoor soak. The trail ascends through rolling green hills, passing active geothermal features including mud pots and steaming vents. At the end of the well-marked path, cold mountain water merges with geothermal streams to create a swimmable river with various temperature zones. Visitors typically spend time soaking in the warm currents before returning via the same route.

Head-to-Head Metric Analysis

Intensity ScoreHigher Overall Demand
15
WINNER16
Physical LoadMore Physically Taxing
21
WINNER24
Technical SeriousnessMore Technically Demanding
5 WINNER
4
DistanceLonger route
8 km WINNER
7.4 km
Elevation GainMore vertical
150 m
WINNER350 m
Highest PointHigher summit
1,070 m WINNER
350 m
Duration
1 days
1 days
Hazard LevelMore accessible
LOW // ACCESS WINNER
STANDARD // RT
Crowd Level
5 / 5
5 / 5
RemotenessMore remote
2 / 5 WINNER
1 / 5

HikeMetrics Hazard Scale — Explanation

1
LOW // ACCESS
2
STANDARD // RT
3
MODERATE // CHLG
4
EXPERT // HAZARD
5
EXTREME // LETHAL

The HikeMetrics Hazard Scale is a proprietary 5-point classification system that evaluates hiking routes across five dimensions: physical demand, technical complexity, altitude exposure, weather risk, and rescue accessibility.

Unlike generic star ratings, the Hazard Scale is calibrated against altitude profiles, elevation gain per day, and logistical isolation factors — making it the most precise route classification system available.

Full Scale Documentation
Route A // Hazard Verdict
Le Bout du Monde (Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)
LOW // ACCESS
spring avalanches and rockfall: The trail pushes deep into the base of 2,000m cliffs. In spring, massive chunks of ice and loosened rock frequently crash down into the valley.
sudden river surges: The Giffre river and its tributaries can swell rapidly on hot afternoons when the glacial melt above accelerates.
Route B // Hazard Verdict
Reykjadalur
STANDARD // RT
geothermal features: The valley is geothermally active, with boiling mud pits and steam vents located near the trail. Some pools exceed 80–100°C and present a severe burn risk.
hypothermia after swimming: While the water is warm (~38°C), high wind chill and low air temperatures can lead to rapid cooling upon exiting the river.

Required Gear Comparison

Le Bout du Monde (Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)
Lightweight, waterproof hiking shoes (the valley floor is often sodden with water spray and small streams crossing the path)Waterproof jacket (hikers will likely get sprayed by the waterfalls if the wind picks up)Camera with a wide-angle lens (the scale of the cirque is nearly impossible to capture)Binoculars (to spot chamois and ibex clinging to the impossible cliffs high above)
Reykjadalur
Swimsuit and a packable microfiber towelFlip-flops (the river bed has sharp rocks, and walking on the icy wooden decking barefoot hurts)Waterproof outer layers (to wear over your damp clothes for the walk down)A plastic bag (to put your wet swimsuit in)

Compare with Other Routes

austria
Highway Lakes — Blindsee & Weißensee
LOW // ACCESS
austria
Dachstein Krippenstein — The 5 Fingers & Alpine Shark
STANDARD // RT
austria
The Gaisalmsteig — Achensee’s Fjordside Path
STANDARD // RT
austria
Grossglockner — The Gamsgrubenweg Trail
STANDARD // RT
austria
Hochkeil — The Hidden Panorama
LOW // ACCESS
austria
Krimml Waterfalls — The Vertical Mist
STANDARD // RT