Heimwehfluh Toboggan Run Temporarily Closed Due To Safety Concerns

The Heimwehfluh toboggan run is temporarily closed for operation. According to the Department of Construction and Transport, extensive maintenance work is required to ensure safe public access. This was the result of a special inspection by the Control Office of the Intercantonal Concordat on Cable Cars and Ski Lifts (IKSS). The building authorities of the municipality of Matten near Interlaken have issued a ban on use.

Due to the fatal accident on July 4, 2025, on the Heimwehfluh toboggan run in the municipality of Matten near Interlaken, the Construction and Transport Directorate of the Canton of Bern, in cooperation with the IKSS inspection body, conducted a special inspection of the facility, particularly the toboggan. The inspection revealed that comprehensive maintenance work on the toboggan vehicles is necessary for safe operation.

Operating the steep slope places significant strain on the toboggan's wheels and brakes. The necessary ongoing maintenance and repair work cannot currently be guaranteed. This means that the requirements for an operating permit and for safe public operation of the toboggan run are no longer met. Therefore, the building inspectorate of the municipality of Matten near Interlaken has issued a ban on use. The facility can resume operations once the maintenance work has been completed and the operational conditions ensure safe operation.

An investigation into the work accident of July 4, 2025 is underway under the leadership of the Oberland Public Prosecutor's Office.

Summer toboggan runs are facilities where the users themselves control the ride. Guests are expected to exercise personal responsibility and must be able to handle this type of sports equipment. The operators of such facilities are obligated to inform guests of the terms of use and provide proper instruction for the ride. This distinguishes summer toboggan runs from facilities in amusement parks (e.g., "fairground runs").

There are no legal requirements for operational supervision for toboggan runs, as is the case for ski lifts and cable cars under the Cable Car Act. The IKSS regulations, which govern the construction and operation of cable cars and ski lifts without federal licenses, stipulate that toboggan runs may be subject to voluntary supervision or periodic inspection by the cantons or operators.