Switzerland is a hiker’s dream with snow-capped mountains, rolling hills, and magical deep blue lakes.
The magnificent mountain ranges that grace Switzerland are among the many things this country is famous for. With so many hikes to choose from, it can be difficult to know which are the best hikes in Switzerland.
Home to the Swiss Alps and dozens of picturesque Swiss villages, this is a haven for hikers whether you are in search of a multi-day hiking adventure or a short hiking experience.
Here are the ten best hikes in Switzerland.
The World Bucket List’s top tips for hiking in Switzerland
- Look over and keep up to date with the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Weather can change quick in the Swiss mountains.
- Essential gear and clothing is paramount. Wear comfortable clothing, hiking boots, have a map, compass, a first aid kit, plenty of water, and a portable charger if needed.
- Follow all trail makers and signs and keep to designated mountain paths.
- Engage with the locals. A lot of Swiss mountains are home to locals well-versed in the trial, and you can learn plenty from them.
- It may also be worthwhile to do a guided hike, if it is your first time or you are unsure of which mountain to hike.
10. Schäfler Ridge Hike – for dramatic views
A forest full of towering trees leads the way, bringing you to the luscious green mountainside. There are multiple cliffs on the hillside, one of which is home to a unique cliff-face church.
You will have to walk through one of these caves to make it to the dramatic viewing point, which has incredible views of Seealpsee.
Address: 9057 Schwende District, Switzerland
9. Pinut Via Ferrata – for an adrenaline rush
This cliffside stairway is made up of a series of ladders and staircases at the edge of the cliff, but fear not, for you are attached to a wire cable!
Enjoy impressive rock formations before exploring some of the caves and tunnels. Although not for the faint-hearted, this adventure is definitely one for your bucket list.
Address: 7017 Flims, Switzerland
8. Riffelsee Hike – for spectacular views
The impressive Matterhorn takes centre stage during this hike, and thankfully you won’t have to climb it.
Instead, enjoy incredible reflections of this mighty mountain in the waters of the Riffel Lake. This hike is a photographer’s dream as the colours of the sun dance against the mountain, giving it a beautiful glow.
Address: 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland
Read more: What is Switzerland famous for? Top 10 interesting things
7. Mount Niesen – above the clouds
No list of the best hikes in Switzerland would be complete without the magnificent Mount Niesen.
This pyramid-shaped mountain often sits above the clouds, meaning that sunrises and sunsets are particularly magnificent. There is even a restaurant and hotel at the top of this mountain!
Address: 3711 Reichenbach im Kandertal, Switzerland
6. Val Trupchun Hiking Trail – a popular trail
Part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this trail attracts thousands every year. Although it is 14 km (8.7 miles) in length, the trail is reasonably easy to navigate.
Keep your eyes peeled for wild animals like deer and vultures as you meander your way along the route.
Address: 7525 S-chanf, Switzerland
5. Oeschinensee Panorama Hike – for cows with bells
If you’re looking for that picture-perfect Swiss hike, then this is the best hike for you.
Expect waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, gorgeous green meadows, and cows with bells on your 8.5 km (5.3 miles) hike. This looped walk offers impressive views of the Oeschinensee lake, but it can be difficult in parts.
Address: 3718 Kandersteg, Switzerland
Read: The World Bucket List’s top choices for the best cities in Switzerland
4. Pizol Five Lakes Trail – picturesque lakes
As one of the most popular hikes in Eastern Switzerland, it is not difficult to understand why this one had to be included on our list of best hikes in Switzerland.
This 10 km (6.2 miles) trail is home to five impressive alpine lakes scattered about the rugged Swiss mountainside. Each of the lakes offers something different; one is turquoise blue while another is a dark blue.
Address: 7326 Mels, Switzerland
3. Surenenpass– a day hike with views
For those looking for a longer adventure, then one of the best hikes in Switzerland is the day hike from Engelberg to Attinghausen.
The adventure begins and ends with breathtaking cablecar journeys, and it approximately six hours in total. Keep your eyes peeled for the alpine huts that may invite you in to try some delicious alpine cheese!
Address: 6468 Attinghausen, Switzerland
2. Lauterbrunnen Glacial Valley – for waterfalls galore
Home to 72 beautiful waterfalls, some standing an impressive 400 m (1,300 ft) tall, the Lauterbrunnen region is an easy yet delightful hike.
Enjoy views of the Swiss Alpine homes that grace the green and rugged mountainside. It is said that Lauterbrunnen is the inspiration for Rivendell in The Lord of the Rings.
Address: 3822 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Related: the top ten best hikes in the Lake District, ranked
1. Matterhorn – for the ultimate test
As one of the highest peaks in the Swiss Alps, the Matterhorn is one of Switzerland’s most difficult hikes. However, it is one of the best spots for hiking in Europe.
Sitting on the Swiss-Italian border, this 4,478 m (14,692 ft) tall mountain offers truly spectacular views from its peak. However, this hike is only for skilled hikers as it has claimed many lives over the years.
Address: 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland
Your questions answered about the best hikes in Switzerland
In this section, we have put together some of the most commonly asked questions about the best hikes in Switzerland both to us and from online. So, if you read our article and still have some questions, then we have you covered in this section.
Which lake is best for hiking in Switzerland?
Lake Lucerne takes the prize as the best lake for hiking in Switzerland. It is peppered with mountain views and tranquil travails around the lake.
What is the most beautiful thru hike in the world?
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is often regarded as the most beautiful thru hike in the world, covering 2,650 miles (4,264 km).
What are the hardest day hikes in Switzerland?
The hardest day hikes in Switzerland would include the Eiger Trail, Schreckhorntutte Trial, and Hardegrat Trail.
Is Switzerland known for hiking?
Yes, it is widely-known for this. Switzerland has a litany of hiking routes for all ranges and is home to some of the best scenery in the world whilst doing so.
More World Bucket List articles for some of the best hikes around the world
Top 10 BEAUTIFUL mountains in the PHILIPPINES for hikers
