The 10 Best Hikes in Switzerland

Three years ago, I traded city life for Switzerland’s mountains—and never looked back. What started as a weekend escape became a passion for discovering trails weaving past alpine lakes, glacial valleys, and villages straight from a postcard. Here, every path feels like a doorway to adventure.

One thing surprised me most: how accessible these jaw-dropping views are. Trains and gondolas whisk you to trailheads within hours, no car needed. Summer (June–September) delivers reliable weather, while autumn offers solitude—just pack layers. (Trust me, I’ve survived sudden August snowstorms!)

This guide shares my favorite routes—each with its own magic. Whether you crave wildflower meadows or rugged peaks, Switzerland’s hiking network connects them all. Let’s dive in.

Key Takeaways

Switzerland’s trails are easily reachable by public transport—no car required.
June through September is ideal for stable weather and open routes.
Autumn hikes offer fewer crowds but demand preparedness for changing conditions.
Layering gear is essential—mountain weather shifts fast.
Trails often interconnect, letting you extend adventures spontaneously.

1. Pizol Lake (5 Lake Hike): Eastern Switzerland’s Alpine Gem

Wildsee’s electric blue water stopped me mid-step—my first glimpse of Pizol’s five-lake hike. This 10km loop packs glacier-carved valleys, emerald pools, and ridges where chamois leap between rocks. Eastern Switzerland’s secret? The views are grand, but crowds stay thin.

A breathtaking alpine landscape, with the crystal-clear waters of the Pizol Five Lakes glimmering in the foreground, surrounded by rugged, snow-capped peaks that rise majestically into the distance. The scene is bathed in warm, golden light, casting long shadows across the lush, verdant meadows that line the trail. In the middle ground, a winding path leads hikers through the serene alpine environment, inviting the viewer to embark on this stunning, 5-lake journey through the heart of Switzerland's Eastern Alps. The overall atmosphere is one of tranquility and awe-inspiring natural beauty, perfectly capturing the essence of this iconic Swiss hiking destination.

Trail Overview

Start at Wangs’ gondola (no car needed—just 1hr from Zurich). The lift whisks you to Pizolhütte, skipping 2 hours of steep switchbacks. Purists can hike up, but save energy for the 750m elevation gain ahead.

Wildsee stuns first—its turquoise against gray peaks feels unreal. The trail then weaves past four smaller lakes, each with unique colors. Near the third lake, a hidden cove invites brave swimmers (pack quick-dry gear!).

How to Get There

From Zurich, trains reach Bad Ragaz in 50 minutes. Bus 451 goes to Wangs, where the gondola begins. Pro tip: Catch the 2pm ascent for golden light on the Gaffia descent—it turns the cliffs fiery orange.

Key Stats: Distance, Elevation, and Time

Distance: 10km loop
Elevation: 750m gain
Duration: 4-5 hours

Watch for rocky sections near Schottensee—my boots saved me from twisted ankles. Once, I squinted at distant figures scaling a ridge, only to realize they were hikers, not mountain goats!

Cap the day in Wangs village. Gasthaus Alpenrose serves hearty rösti with local cider. Their patio overlooks the very peaks you conquered.

2. Oeschinensee: Bernese Alps’ Crystal-Clear Wonder

Oeschinensee’s water was so clear, I swore I could count every pebble 30 feet below. This 8km loop in the Bernese Oberland delivers two extremes: heart-pounding cliffside trails and lakeside tranquility. One minute, you’re gripping cables along Heuberg ridge; the next, you’re skipping stones into glacial meltwater.

Oeschinensee, a pristine alpine lake nestled in the majestic Bernese Alps, surrounded by towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. In the foreground, the crystal-clear turquoise waters reflect the rugged, snow-capped mountains, creating a breathtaking mirrored effect. Lush, verdant meadows and forests line the shore, dotted with vibrant wildflowers. Dramatic, golden-hour lighting filters through wispy clouds, bathing the scene in a warm, ethereal glow. Framed by the dramatic, jagged peaks of the Blüemlisalp and Doldenhorn, the tranquil lake invites hikers to pause and take in the unparalleled natural beauty of this Swiss wonder.

Why This Hike Stands Out

The views from Heuberg are legendary—360-degree panoramas of the Blüemlisalp massif. But the real magic? Descending to the lake’s shore, where you can rent wooden rowboats (or watch brave souls dive in). Pro tip: Pack waterproof pants. My hat learned the hard way when a rogue wave claimed it as tribute.

Logistics: Cable Car vs. Hiking Up

The cable car from Kandersteg saves 2 hours and 480m of elevation gain. Catch the first ascent at 8:30am, but note the last descent is 5:15pm—miss it, and you’re hiking down in the dark. For purists, the trail up starts near the campground, weaving through pine forests.

Steep Sections and Safety Tips

Near Oberbärgli, the sections of loose gravel demand focus. My trick? Plant your poles like a mountain goat and step deliberately. For lunch, veer off-trail to a flat rock overlooking the lake—it’s marked by a tiny cairn.

Distance: 8km loop
Elevation gain: 480m
Duration: 3–4 hours
Don’t miss: Älplere cheese at the lakeside hut

Fun fact: The lake’s color shifts from turquoise to deep blue by afternoon. I once sat there so long, a curious marmot tried to share my sandwich!

3. Seealpsee (Alpstein): Easy Beauty with a Cliffside Restaurant

Äscher Restaurant clung to the cliffside like a stubborn barnacle—I ordered rösti with a side of vertigo. Below, Seealpsee’s glassy water reflected the Alpstein peaks, a postcard come to life. This 2.5km hike packs meadows, a swim-worthy lake, and a dining experience dangling over a 100m drop.

A scenic mountain trail winding through lush alpine meadows, leading to the serene turquoise waters of Seealpsee, nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Alpstein range. Towering rock formations frame the tranquil lake, their sharp edges illuminated by the warm glow of golden hour sunlight. In the distance, a charming cliffside restaurant perches precariously, offering breathtaking views over the pristine landscape. Wispy clouds drift lazily overhead, casting soft shadows on the rugged terrain below. The air is crisp and invigorating, inviting hikers to pause and savor the stunning natural beauty of this enchanting Swiss alpine setting.

Two Routes to the Lake

From Wasserauen, choose your adventure:

The Grind: Follow the service road (266m elevation gain). It’s steep but rewards with wildflower bursts and cowbell symphonies.
The Cheat Code: Ride the Ebenalp cable car, then descend 20 minutes to the lake. Ideal for families or time-crunched hikers.

Pro tip: Combine both—hike up, cable-car down. My calves thanked me.

Don’t Miss the Äscher Restaurant

Perched in a cave, Äscher serves rösti portions so huge, they could fuel a hike to Mars. Go before 11am or after 2pm to dodge queues. Their hazelnut schnapps—a local digestif—tastes like liquid gold. (One shot warmed me up for the cliffside photo op.)

Family-Friendly Options

Rent rowboats at the lake (CHF 15/hour). My kids paddled while I lounged on west-shore boulders—sunset turns them pink. For shorter legs, the flat trail around the lake takes 45 minutes. Pack swimsuits: the water’s chilly but irresistible.

Quick Stats:

Distance: 2.5km (one way)
Elevation: 266m gain (service road)
Time: 1–1.5 hours up

4. Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail: Walk Beside a Frozen Giant

Standing on the edge of Aletsch Glacier, I felt dwarfed—23 kilometers of ice stretched before me like a frozen river carved by giants. This UNESCO-listed trail offers more than views; it’s a front-row seat to Earth’s raw power. Listen closely, and you’ll hear the glacier’s creaks—a sonic reminder that this landscape is alive.

A vast, majestic panorama of the Aletsch Glacier unfolds, its imposing blue-white expanse carving through the rugged, snow-capped Alps. In the foreground, a winding trail leads hikers along the glacier's edge, offering unparalleled views of this natural wonder. The middle ground features jagged, towering peaks that frame the scene, their rocky faces illuminated by warm, golden sunlight. In the distance, the glacier stretches into the horizon, its icy tendrils snaking through the valleys. The air is crisp and clear, instilling a sense of awe and tranquility. This is the Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail, a captivating hiking experience that showcases the grandeur of Switzerland's majestic alpine landscape.

Glacier Facts and Views

From the Musfluh Cable Car, 32 peaks over 4,000m pierce the horizon. The trail traces the glacier’s eastern flank, where climate change markers—recession lines etched into rock—tell a silent story. Pack binoculars: distant figures on the ice are often researchers measuring its retreat.

Starting Point: Riederalp or Fiescheralp?

Riederalp: Quaint village charm, but adds 45 minutes to the hike. Worth it for the wood-smoked cheese at Berghaus Hohfluh.
Fiescheralp: Faster access (just 10 minutes to the viewpoint) and gentler elevation gain. Skip breakfast here—the cable car station’s espresso is weak.

Best Time to Avoid Crowds

July and August draw crowds, but catch the first gondola at 7am for solitude. By 10am, the light turns the ice electric blue. Late September offers crisp air and golden larches—just watch for early snow. My secret? Weekdays after 3pm, when day-trippers leave.

Telescopic poles are lifesavers on moraine rubble. Near Märjelenseen, the lake’s chalky waters mirror the sky—swim if you dare (it’s colder than it looks). One way to grasp the glacier’s scale? Compare it to Manhattan: Aletsch is longer than the island.

5. Bachalpsee: Grindelwald’s Postcard-Perfect Lake

Morning mist hovered over Bachalpsee like a delicate veil—I held my breath as the sun burned it away, revealing a mirror so flawless it doubled the surrounding peaks. This alpine lake near Grindelwald delivers views worthy of a painter’s canvas, with minimal effort required. A quick cable car ride and gentle 1.45-hour trail make it accessible for all.

A breathtaking vista of the serene Bachalpsee lake nestled amidst the majestic Swiss Alps near Grindelwald. In the foreground, the crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks and lush alpine meadows. A winding trail leads through the verdant landscape, inviting the viewer to embark on a picturesque hike. Warm, golden sunlight filters through wispy clouds, casting a dreamlike glow over the entire scene. The composition emphasizes the tranquility and natural beauty of this iconic Swiss landscape, perfectly capturing the essence of a postcard-worthy destination.

First Gondola Access

From Grindelwald, the cable car to First station takes 25 minutes. Grab a window seat on the left side—you’ll spot the Wetterhorn’s jagged ridges before the trail even begins. Pro tip: Arrive by 8am to avoid queues and catch the lake’s glassy stillness. The elevation gain is just 188m, mostly spread across gentle switchbacks.

Picnic Spots and Photo Ops

Pack treats from Grindelwald’s local bakeries—buttery Bretzeli cookies pair perfectly with the views. Two prime spots:

North shore: Flat rocks ideal for tripod setups. Dawn transforms the water into a mirror.
West inlet: Secluded for swims (if you brave the chill). Watch for marmots—they’ll photobomb if you’re quiet.

Extending to Faulhorn

For an epic add-on, continue 2.5 hours uphill to Berghotel Faulhorn. The reward? A 180° panorama of the Bernese Alps. Pack layers—the ridge way gets windy. I once lingered too long capturing the views and had to jog back before sunset!

Route Option	Distance	Elevation Gain	Time
Bachalpsee Round Trip	6km	188m	1.45 hours
Faulhorn Extension	12km	730m	4.5 hours

Avoid afternoons—selfie sticks multiply like alpine wildflowers. For solitude, visit midweek in September when larches turn gold. Fun fact: The lake’s name means “bench lake,” named for its flat shoreline. Perfect for that picnic you’ve been planning.

6. Zermatt 5 Lakes Hike: Matterhorn Reflections Galore

Five lakes, one iconic peak—Zermatt’s legendary hike blends alpine beauty with refreshing swim breaks. This 9km trail winds past turquoise pools, each framing the Matterhorn like a carefully composed postcard. With just 241m of elevation gain, it’s a visual feast without the thigh burn.

A serene alpine landscape, the Zermatt 5 Lakes hike unfolds before the majestic Matterhorn. In the foreground, a still glacial lake perfectly reflects the iconic peak, its jagged silhouette mirrored in the crystal-clear waters. Lush, verdant meadows dotted with wildflowers lead the eye towards the middle ground, where trails wind between shimmering tarns and boulder-strewn slopes. In the distance, the Pennine Alps rise triumphantly, their snow-capped summits bathed in warm, golden light filtered through wispy cirrus clouds. A sense of tranquility and awe pervades the scene, capturing the essence of this breathtaking Swiss hiking destination.

Lakes You’ll Pass (and Swim In)

Ranked by swim-worthiness:

Leisee: Shallow and sun-warmed (the only lake where I’ve seen toddlers splashing).
Stellisee: Mirror-like at dawn—set your alarm for 6am to capture the perfect reflection.
Grindjisee: Icy but stunning, with emerald hues from glacial flour.

Pro tip: Pack a waterproof phone case. I dropped mine while kneeling to photograph Grünsee’s jade waters—thankfully, it survived.

Chez Vrony Hut Stop

This cliffside hut’s secret? Their Höhenwind cocktail—local pear brandy with thyme syrup. Pair it with air-dried beef from Valais cows grazing below. Time your stop for 11am when sunlight floods the patio, turning the Matterhorn gold.

Blauherd to Sunnegga Route

From Blauherd, the trail descends through larch forests. Watch for ibex near Grünsee—they’re bolder here than elsewhere in Zermatt. End at Sunnegga station, where the cable car zips you back to town in 8 minutes. No car? No problem. Trains from Visp connect seamlessly.

My proudest moment? Completing the hike in lederhosen (a bet gone right). The wool lining kept me warm during my “Alpine sauna” routine—swim, sunbathe, repeat. Just avoid cotton unless you enjoy hiking in soggy clothes.

7. Rigi Panoramic Trail: Lakeside Views for All Skill Levels

Cowbells chimed in the distance, a soundtrack to Rigi’s rolling meadows—this trail proves Switzerland’s beauty isn’t just for hardcore hikers. With gentle slopes and jaw-dropping views of Lake Lucerne, it’s a paradise for families and first-timers. Even better? No car is required—just hop on a historic cog railway.

A sweeping panoramic vista of the picturesque Rigi mountain range, with the shimmering waters of Lake Lucerne in the foreground. Lush, verdant foliage clings to the slopes, framing the trail that winds its way through the landscape. Sunlight dapples the scene, casting a warm, golden glow and highlighting the rugged, snow-capped peaks in the distance. Hikers, their silhouettes tiny against the grand scale, traverse the trail, offering a sense of scale and human connection to the breathtaking natural beauty. Crisp, clean lines and a balanced, harmonious composition capture the tranquil, serene atmosphere of this picturesque alpine setting.

Cog Railway: Arth Goldau vs. Vitznau

Two routes lead to Rigi Kulm, the trail’s start point. Vitznau’s red train climbs past waterfalls—ideal for photographers. Arth Goldau’s blue train winds through forests, shaving 15 minutes off the time. Pro tip: Sit on the right side from Vitznau for lakeside panoramas.

Route	Duration	Scenic Highlights
Vitznau	30 mins	Waterfalls, lake vistas
Arth Goldau	45 mins	Forests, distant Alps

Kid-Friendly Hacks

Strollers roll easily on the wide gravel path to Rigi Kaltbad. Turn the trip into a treasure hunt—count cowbells or spot yellow arnica flowers. For tiny legs, take the cable car down from Kaltbad (saves 1.5 hours). Pack snacks: Bergrestaurant Rigi Staffel serves mini schnitzels.

Ferry Combos and Sunset Cruises

Book a Kombiticket to pair your hike with a Lake Lucerne ferry. The 5pm cruise from Vitznau turns the water molten gold—worth the extra CHF 12. No elevation gain here, just alpine glow and Swiss wine. My kids waved at our morning trail from the deck, spotting where we’d picnicked.

Distance: 6.9km (one way)
Elevation gain: 245m
Don’t miss: Sunset at Chänzeli viewpoint

8. The Hardergrat Trail: Ridgewalking for Thrill-Seekers

My hands trembled as I inched along the knife-edge ridge—one misstep meant a 500m plunge. Hardergrat isn’t a trail; it’s an 18km tightrope walk above Lake Brienz, where gusts can shove you sideways. With 3,000m of elevation gain, this route rewards stamina with spine-tingling views—if you dare.

A rugged alpine trail winding along a dramatic ridgeline, the Hardergrat in Switzerland offers a thrilling hike for the adventurous. Capture the scene with a wide-angle lens to showcase the sweeping vistas - snow-capped peaks in the distance, a deep valley below, and the narrow, exposed path snaking through the rocky landscape. Dramatic shadows cast by high-angled sunlight create a sense of depth and drama, as hikers navigate the challenging terrain. Render this scene with a gritty, naturalistic style that evokes the remote, untamed wilderness of the Alps.

Why the “Dangerous” Reputation?

Three sections test nerves: Sidelhorn’s crumbling limestone, Tanzbodeli’s 30cm-wide spine, and the final descent’s loose scree. I learned the hard way—my hiking pole snapped mid-crossing, leaving me hugging the rock face. Local guides call it “Switzerland’s most exposed day hike” for good reason.

Gear That Saved My Knees

Poles with grip tape: Wrap duct tape around handles for sweaty-palm security.
Approach shoes: Sticky rubber soles grip polished rock better than boots.
Bum slide technique: Scoot down steep gravel on your rear—embrace the dirt.

Beat the Clock: Cable Car Logistics

The last car from Brienzer Rothorn departs at 4:45pm sharp. Miss it, and you’re facing a 3-hour hike down in the dark. Start by 7am to allow time for photo stops and weather delays. Pro tip: Check the webcam at Rothorn station—if clouds obscure the ridge, postpone.

Once, fog erased the trail entirely. I navigated by feeling for boot-scuffed rocks until the sun burned through. That’s Hardergrat’s lesson: respect the mountains, and they’ll reward you with adrenaline-fueled memories.

9. Triftbrücke: A Suspension Bridge Over Glacier Melt

Wind howled through the steel cables as I took my first step onto Triftbrücke—170 meters above a glacier-carved abyss. This trail isn’t just a hike; it’s a front-row seat to climate change, where a vanishing glacier and a swaying bridge tell parallel stories of fragility and resilience.

An expansive vista of the majestic Triftbrücke suspension bridge, its slender cables spanning the deep, glacier-fed ravine below. The bridge is framed by towering, snow-capped peaks and lush alpine meadows, bathed in the soft, diffused light of an overcast day. Hikers navigate the sturdy wooden planks, pausing to gaze out at the breathtaking landscape. The scene evokes a sense of adventure, tranquility, and the sheer grandeur of the Swiss Alps.

Booking the Triftbahn Gondola

The tiny gondola fits just 8 people—reserve online at 7am sharp. Weekday slots vanish fastest. Miss out? The 2.5-hour hike up gains 695m of elevation gain, but the way down is brutal on knees. Pro tip: Duct-tape your poles’ grips. Mine slipped mid-ascent, nearly tumbling into the gorge.

Option	Duration	Cost (CHF)
Gondola (round trip)	10 mins	34
Hike up	2.5 hours	0

Glacier Recession Insights

Rust-colored markers dot the cliffs—each shows where the glacier reached in past decades. Binoculars reveal ice caves collapsing like sandcastles. The bridge itself? Built in 2009 after the original path melted away. Pack a jacket: the wind chills even in summer.

Near the upper station, a hidden waterfall cascades down mossy rocks. Few notice it—most rush to the bridge. Sit here awhile. The roar of water drowns out crowds, a rare moment of solitude.

Short but Steep Hike

The final 20 minutes to the bridge climb sharply. Focus on the trail, not the drop. Locals joke: “Look at your boots, not the view.” Once across, double back via the moraine for a quieter trip down. No car? Postbuses from Meiringen run hourly.

Don’t miss: Sunset turns the glacier pink—but catch the last gondola by 5pm.
Gear: Knee braces for the descent; the gravel slips like ball bearings.
Climate note: The glacier loses 30m yearly. Visit before it’s just a memory.

10. Tour du Lac de Moiry: Valais’ Turquoise Loop

The wind whipped glacial silt into miniature dust devils as I stepped onto Moiry’s lunar-like moraine—this wasn’t Earth, it was Mars with alpenglow. This 13.4km loop wraps around Switzerland’s most surreal lake, where trail markers lead you past ice-carved cliffs and secret wildflower pockets. With 567m of elevation gain, it’s a moderate day trip that feels like stepping into a fantasy novel.

Sweeping vistas of the majestic Tour du Lac de Moiry hike in the heart of Valais, Switzerland. In the foreground, a pristine turquoise lake reflects the surrounding towering peaks and glaciers. Hikers ascend a winding trail, their silhouettes dwarfed by the dramatic, snow-capped Alps that rise majestically in the distance. Warm, golden sunlight filters through wispy clouds, casting a soft, ethereal glow over the serene landscape. The scene exudes a sense of tranquility and awe-inspiring natural beauty, perfectly capturing the essence of this stunning alpine loop hike.

Glacial Moraine Scramble

The eastern moraine looks like a giant dumped gravel—jagged rocks and twisted metal from old mining gear. Trekking poles are lifesavers here. I once spotted a herd of ibex sunbathing on the warm stones, their horns glowing gold at sunset.

Two route options:

Clockwise: Tackles the steepest sections early (ideal for fresh legs).
Counterclockwise: Saves the lake’s views for the finale—perfect for golden hour photos.

Parking and Dam Start Point

Park at Moiry Dam’s lot (free before 8am). The concrete arch makes a killer photo op—shoot from the west side at noon for shadow play. No car? Postbuses from Grimentz run hourly. Pro tip: Fill bottles at the dam’s spring; it’s the coldest water you’ll ever taste.

Nearby Zermatt Detours

Extend your trip with a train to Zermatt (90 minutes). The Matterhorn’s trails connect seamlessly—just pack extra snacks. My secret? Wild camp above St. Luc for sunrise views of both ranges. Rangers tolerate discreet tents if you arrive late and leave early.

Stats	Details
Distance	13.4km loop
Elevation Gain	567m
Swim Spot	Hidden cove near Pont de la Gouille

Gear up: Early-season hikers need crampons for icy patches near the glacier tongue. By August, it’s all wildflowers and sunbathing lizards—nature’s mood swings at their finest.

Conclusion: Your Swiss Hiking Adventure Awaits

A steaming fondue pot waited at the trail’s end—my reward for conquering another alpine pass. Whether you’re plotting hikes Switzerland classics or hidden gems, these trails promise memories as crisp as mountain air.

Base yourself in Interlaken for easy access to Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen. Multi-day passes like the Swiss Travel Pass save time and cash—unlimited trains, buses, and even boats. Prefer a DIY trip? Grab my free packing checklist (link below) to prep for changing conditions.

After dusty boots, refuel at Chäs Biente in Grindelwald. Their truffle fondue pairs perfectly with summit stories. Visit late September for golden larches and quiet paths—just pack extra layers.

Tag me in your summit selfies—I’ll cheer you on! Every turn here reveals a new secret. Ready to lace up?