Switzerland is renowned worldwide as a hiker's paradise, home to some of the most spectacular trails on the globe. With its soaring peaks, expansive glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and tranquil valleys, the Swiss landscape presents a tapestry of natural wonders begging to be explored. As an enthusiast who has trekked across every enchanting region of this beautiful country, I am thrilled to guide you through the top hikes in Switzerland. Each trail is carefully selected to offer you an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Switzerland's stunning natural beauty. Join me as we uncover the ultimate hiking experiences that promise not just a journey, but a true adventure with panoramic views of Switzerland.
You can't really go wrong with any hike, as there are so many options all across Switzerland. However, based on my own personal experiences, I’ve to put together a list of “the 10 best hikes in Switzerland” to inspire you planning the perfect hiking trip. They all cover helpful tips and information about the best hiking trails that will make it easy for you to lace up your boots and hike. The hikes cover a wide range of locations ranging from the North to the South and the West to the East and all show some of the most stunning views that Switzerland has to offer.
What to know before hiking in Switzerland?
Prepare for Changing Weather: The weather in the Swiss Alps can shift dramatically, and I've encountered sudden snowstorms in mid-summer. It 's important you are prepared and always check the weather forecast first and as well as the trail conditions for the hike you want to do. Always carry extra warm clothing, waterproof gear, and sufficient supplies.
When is the best time to visit?
The ideal months for hiking are from June to October. Usually the snow melts by then and the huts and peaks are accessible. July and August are peak tourist months, so it is important book accommodations early, especially in hotspots like Interlaken, Lucerne or Zermatt. Autumn is also spectacular for hiking, with fewer tourists and beautiful fall foliage. But you need to be prepared for all types of weather including early snowfall in the higher regions. The summer months are for sure the most busy for nature lovers. But also late summer and autumn is perfect for leisurely day hikes, great views and unique experiences. Download apps like Meteo Swiss (iOS or Android) or SRF Meteo (iOS or Android) for the most accurate forecast and updates on prompt weather changes in the mountains. Watch out for the swiss holiday time and possibly avoid those weeks in autumn specifically.
Can I pay with cash or card?
It is highly recommended to bring some cash in Swiss franc with you since most alpine huts or remote areas do not accept cards or have simply no connectivity /wifi.
What to wear for hiking?
Layering is essential. Temperatures can vary greatly in the mountains, that's why it is important to bring clothes with you that will protect you from the elements and help regulate body temperature. Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Make sure to have enough sun protection with you and always bring enough water with you. I cannot stress how important the right footwear is. Accidents happen way too often when people are not equipped appropriately. Get a pair of hiking boots or trail shoes, it's a good investment and you'll use them very often when in Switzerland.
The 10 Best Hikes in Switzerland
1. Pizol lake (5 lake hike)
The Pizol hike, also famously called 5 Lake hike, is a beautiful tour that can easily be done in a day. The hike is just about one hour away from Zurich and features some of the bluest alpine lakes and spectacular views of the Alps in Eastern Switzerland.
How to get there: Park the car at the Pizol Gondola parking in Wangs or get the train and bus there. The cable car takes you to the Pizolhütte at the top from where the hike begins. The hike to the first lake, Wildsee takes you an hour and from there it is a pleasantly panoramic trail and you'll continue passing along the other 4 lakes. At the end of the trail you can pause at Graffia for a refreshing drink or take the cable car back down.
For more information read here.
Hike Time: 4 Hours
Distance: 10km
Ascent/Descent: 750m/1100m
Start/End Point: Pizolhütte/Graffia
2. Oeschinensee (Oeschinen lake)
Kandersteg's charm gives way to Alpine grandeur. Climb the Bernese peaks to find Oeschinensee, a clear lake surrounded by impressive mountain peaks. Its pure waters invite explorers with a peaceful reward. There are miles of trails that loop around the lake and into the mountains, but of course, you can also relax at the waterfront restaurant or rent a boat and paddle around the lake. The classic and most panoramic hike is the loop from Oeschinensee – Oberbärgli (small mountain hut) – Heuberg, which takes about 3.5 hours without stops. I love this hike particularly because you can wander high above the lake and see it from so many different perspectives while being surrounded by the alps. This hike has some steep sections and the path gets narrow along the cliffside, if you are afraid of heights you might choose the route along the lake. For more information read here
How to get there: You can either hike from the town of Kandersteg (this is very steep and takes 1.5hours) or take the cable car to the top of the mountain. From the cable car, it is only a 30-minute walk to reach the edge of the lake. For more information read here.
PS: if you have more time and are a well versed hiker I can only recommend the multi-day hike to Blüemlisalphütte. You will sleep with views on the glaciers and crystal blue lake Oeschinen!
Hike Time: 3.5 Hours (loop hike)
Distance: 8km
Ascent/Descent: 480m
Starting point: Kandersteg Cable Car
3. Seealpsee (Alpstein)
Seealpsee is one of the most popular lakes in Switzerland nestled in beautiful Appenzell Canton. The Alpstein regions is many peoples favourite place since it offers an immense network of hiking trails of Switzerland and enchants with the lush green panoramic views. The hike is suitable for beginners since you can simply walk up a service road. If uphill walking isn't for you, I suggest taking the cable car up to Ebenalp, where you can visit the Äscher Restaurant. The hut is one of the most photographed places in Switzerland and became therefore truly famous. I recommend getting there early since it does get very busy. From there you can hike the way down to Seealpsee but note, it has been one of the deadliest trails in Switzerland.
How to get there: There are two ways to reach the lake. The first option is to walk up the service road from Wasserauen. The second option is to take the Ebenalp cable car to the top of the mountain then walk down to the lake, stopping by Ascher hut on the way down. For more hiking information, read here.
Hike Time: 1 hour from Wasserauen or 1.5 hours from Ebenalp
Distance: 2.5km from Wasserauen or 2.6km from Ebenalp
Ascent/Descent: 266m from Wasserauen
Starting point: Wasserauen
4. Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail
Aletsch Glacier is Switzerland's largest and most captivating glacier ice formation. It offers a stunning view of nature's icy beauty. So, make sure to visit it during your Swiss trip. The Aletsch Glacier is located in Wallis and is a great place to stop if you are on your way to Zermatt. The size and scale of the glacier is pretty impressive, spanning over 23 km all the way to Jungfraujoch and almost 900m deep. There are a many hikes you can do here, but I recommend the Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail which leads alongside the lower part of the glacier. The trail offers panoramic views all along the glacier and some of the highest peaks of Switzerland.
How to get here: Start at the Betten valley station and take the cable car to Bettmeralp. Begin your hike at the Bettmerhorn viewpoint, just two minutes from the cable car station (2,647m). First, head down towards Roti Chumma. You'll have a constant view of the Great Aletsch Glacier. Then, follow the stone steps to Märjela, Märjelensee, and the "Gletscherstube" hut. For the return, choose Unneres Tälli or Oberes Tälli, or take the lit Tälligrattunnel shortcut. Then, walk to Salzgäb and descend to Fiescheralp. The last part of the fantastic hike leads the way back to Bettmeralp. For more information, read here.
Hike Time: 5.5 hours
Distance: 15.1km
Ascent/Descent: 185m/900m
Starting Point/End Point: Bettmeralp/Betten Cable Car station
5. Bachalpsee
This easy hike is an absolute must if you are staying in the area of Grindelwald. From here, there are plenty of great hikes that offer panoramic views of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau mountains, which each stand over 4000m high in the Bernese Alps. However, the Bachalpsee hike is not only family friendly but it also perfect for a relaxing day. The trail itself is easily accessible and you can reach the lake in less than an hour. The First cable car takes you to the starting point and there are lot's of family activites like the cliff walk or cliff glider to try too! Once you reach the lake, watch out for the peaks of the Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn reflecting in the emerald blue waters. In my opinion one of the best places for a picnic and enjoy the fantastic panorama of high peaks. Remember to not leave any trace.
How to get here: Start in the town of Grindelwald its a 10 minutes walk to the First valley station or a few bus stops. Take the Grindelwald First Cable Car Station and enjoy the panoramic ride up. For more information, read here.
Note: if you have more days in Grindelwald you should check out Schynige Platte and Kleine Scheidegg! They both offer some of the most amazing scenery in Switzerland!
Hike Time: 1.45 hours return
Distance: 5.9km return
Ascent/Descent: 188m
Starting Point/End Point: Grindelwald First Gondola
6. Zermatt 5 lakes hike
When Zermatt is on your Switzerland tour, this hike should be on your bucket list. It is one of the best and most popular hikes in the area for a good reason. The hike offers incredible views of snowcapped mountains, emerald blue lakes, green hills, and of course you'll see the mighty Matterhorn from various angles during the whole hike. During the 5 lakes hike you'll pass along unique lakes, each with a special charm: Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee, of which 3 offer reflections of the Matterhorn. Unique landscapes define each lake, inviting hikers to cool off with a refreshing swim. Scenic trails wind past charming eateries, like the delightful Chez Vrony hut, offering well-earned sustenance. This diverse terrain promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
How to get here: Take the cable car Sunnegga from Zermatt Village to the top of the Blauherd Cable Car Station. From here, you can start the hike by following the signs after exiting the station. After passing by the lakes, your final destination will be the Sunnegga Upper Cable Car Station. For more information, read here.
Hike Time: 2.5 hours
Distance: 9.8 km
Ascent/Descent: 165m/454m
Starting Point/End Point: Blauherd/Sunnegga
7. Rigi Panoramic Trail
Visiting Mount Rigi is a great option if you’re staying in Lucerne in Central Switzerland or want to take a short day trip from Zurich (40mins.). Once at the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and north towards Zurich. There are plenty of hikes you can do here, depending on how long you wish to make it. You can either take the cog-railway from Vitznau or Arth Goldau to Rigi Kulm at the top or get off at any stop along the way. Once at the top you can admire the view and then walk down to Rigi First, where you can join the Rigi Panoramic Trail. The whole trail itself is 7.5km and takes over 2 hours to complete, but there are shorter versions as well. This hike is a great option if you have kids or if you’re looking for an easy and accessible hike since the trail is wide and well-groomed. I also recommend combining this trip with a ferry ride from Luzern, which is a great way to see the lake on your way to or from Rigi.
How to get here: Take the cog-railway from either Vitznau or Arth Goldau all the way to the top at the Rigi Kulm station. From here hike down to the Rigi First station where the trail joins up with the Rigi Panoramic Trail. Follow the trail all the way to the Rigi Scheideg station, where you can take the cog-railway down. For more information, read here.
Hike Time: 2 hr 10 minutes from Rigi First
Distance: 6.9km
Ascent/Descent: 245m
Starting Point/End Point: Rigi First/Rigi Scheidegg
8. Monte San Salvatore
The Monte San Salvatore to Morcote trail offers one of the most picturesque hiking experiences in Southern Switzerland, combining breathtaking vistas with rich cultural encounters. This trail starts at the summit of Monte San Salvatore. It offers panoramic views of Lake Lugano and the Alps. It then descends through varied landscapes that showcase Ticino's beauty. On this 10-kilometre trek, you will walk through forests, see hidden grottos, and pass olive groves. Each step offers a new view of Lake Lugano. The descent is gentle, making it suitable for most fitness levels, yet still rewarding. Hikers arriving in Morcote find cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and Lake Lugano's calm shores. In 2016, Morcote was named Switzerland's most beautiful village. It draws visitors with the historic church of Santa Maria del Sasso, featuring intricate frescoes, and a beautiful cemetery by the lake.
How to get here: To start the Monte San Salvatore to Morcote trail, first take the funicular from Lugano-Paradiso to Monte San Salvatore's peak. It's easily reachable by public transport from central Lugano, with frequent trains and buses. At the top, take in the views, then follow the marked trails to Morcote. The trail ends in Morcote. From there, you can catch a bus back to Lugano. This makes for a convenient round trip. For more information, read here.
Hike Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 10 km
Ascent/Descent: 300m / 600m
Starting Point: Monte San Salvatore summit
Ending Point: Morcote village
9. Brienzer Rothorn
The hike from Brienzer Rothorn is thrilling and showcases the Bernese Oberland's best views. As you descend, the trail offers a ridge with clear views of Lake Brienz and the famous peaks: Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Known for its stunning sights, the route passes through various ecosystems. You'll see rocky areas with mountain goats and ibexes, then move to green meadows filled with wildflowers. The trail from Brienzer Rothorn to Tannhorn and Planalp is renowned for its panoramic views over Lake Brienz and the surrounding peaks. As you traverse the ridge, the path offers varied terrain from rocky outcrops to lush meadows, making it a captivating experience for enthusiastic hikers. With well-marked paths, the hike is considered moderately challenging and is best enjoyed from late spring to early fall when the trails are clear of snow.
How to get here: The adventure to Brienzer Rothorn begins with a scenic ride on the Brienz Rothorn Railway, one of the oldest steam cog railways in Switzerland. The journey starts from the quaint town of Brienz, which is easily accessible by train from major cities like Interlaken and Lucerne. After enjoying the historic railway ascent to the Rothorn summit, prepare to embark on the hiking trail that offers some of the most impressive alpine scenery in the Bernese Oberland. The trail from Brienzer Rothorn is renowned for its panoramic views over Brienz lake and the surrounding peaks. As you traverse the ridge, the path offers varied terrain from rocky outcrops to lush meadows, making it a captivating experience for enthusiastic hikers. With well-marked paths, the hike is considered moderately challenging and is best enjoyed from late spring to early fall when the trails are clear of snow. For more information, read here.
Hike Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 14 km
Ascent/Descent: 498m ascent / 1500m descent
Starting Point: Brienz Rothorn Railway summit station
Ending Point: Planalp/Brienzer Rothorn Railway valley station
10. Tour du Lac De Moiry
Nestled in the breathtaking Valais region, the Tour du Lac de Moiry offers a captivating loop around the vibrant turquoise waters of Lac de Moiry, set at an impressive altitude of 2500 meters. This scenic trail not only mesmerizes with its vivid landscapes but also with the geological marvels along its path. The trail takes you across the tranquil flow of the river La Gourga. Continue your journey and you will encounter the charming Lac de Châteaupré, a smaller but equally enchanting alpine lake, before facing the imposing challenge of climbing the vast glacial moraine. The hike promises a full spectrum of natural wonders, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Whether you’re visiting nearby Zermatt or seeking a standalone hiking experience, the Tour du Lac de Moiry is a perfect day hike.
How to get there: The adventure begins at the bus stop and car park located at the crest of the Moiry Dam, near the local restaurant, offering convenient access and parking. The circular nature of the trail allows hikers to explore in either direction, making it a flexible option for all levels of experience. For more information, read here.
Hike Time: 4:45m
Distance: 13.4km
Ascent/Descent: 805m
Starting Point/End Point: Moiry Dam
NOW, BOOK YOUR TRIP TO SWITZERLAND! I hope my Swiss hiking list and tips help you. If you've hiked in Switzerland, please share your tips or favorite hikes in the comments! You can include any of these hikes also in your first Switzerland visit. It just depends on your actual itinerary. I'm sure you'll have a great time with many unique experiences to do in the Swiss Alps.