Switzerland's alpine landscape offers some of the most spectacular hiking opportunities in the world. With over 65,000 kilometers of marked trails crisscrossing the country, the Swiss Alps present an embarrassment of riches for outdoor enthusiasts. From leisurely lakeside strolls to challenging high-alpine adventures, there's a perfect path for every hiker regardless of experience level.
As a sustainable travel advisor who has spent countless weeks exploring Switzerland's trail network, I've compiled this guide to help you discover the best hiking experiences across different difficulty levels. Each recommendation includes information on distance, elevation gain, estimated duration, and what makes the trail special.
Understanding Swiss Trail Markings
Before we dive into specific trail recommendations, it's helpful to understand Switzerland's excellent trail marking system:
- Yellow Markers: Regular hiking paths (Wanderweg). These are well-maintained and suitable for most people with basic fitness.
- White-Red-White Markers: Mountain trails (Bergweg). These require proper hiking boots, good fitness, and some hiking experience.
- White-Blue-White Markers: Alpine routes (Alpinweg). These are challenging trails requiring alpine experience, proper equipment, and excellent fitness.
Additionally, signposts typically display walking times rather than distances, calculated based on an average pace with altitude considerations. These estimates are generally accurate but conservative.
Travel Tip
Download the free SwitzerlandMobility app for your smartphone. It provides detailed maps of all marked trails in Switzerland and works offline once you've downloaded the relevant maps.
Easy Hikes: For Beginners and Families
1. Lauterbrunnen Valley Floor Walk
Region: Bernese Oberland
Distance: 4.3 km (one way)
Elevation gain: Minimal (flat valley floor)
Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Best season: May to October
This gentle walk through what is often called "the valley of 72 waterfalls" offers spectacular scenery with minimal effort. Beginning in the village of Lauterbrunnen, the path follows the valley floor alongside the Weisse Lütschine river to the hamlet of Stechelberg. Along the way, you'll pass traditional Swiss chalets, grazing cows with tinkling bells, and several impressive waterfalls, including the famous 300-meter Staubbachfall.
What makes this trail perfect for beginners is its flat terrain and clear path, with the option to take a postbus back to Lauterbrunnen when you're ready to return. The dramatic cliff faces rising on either side provide a taste of Alpine grandeur without requiring any climbing.
2. Lake Cauma Circuit (Caumasee)
Region: Graubünden
Distance: 3 km (loop)
Elevation gain: 30m
Duration: 45 minutes
Best season: June to September
Located near the town of Flims, Lake Cauma is renowned for its Caribbean-like turquoise waters surrounded by pine forest. The easy loop trail circling the lake offers multiple viewing points and beaches. The water's striking color comes from the white limestone rock below, creating an almost tropical appearance in the heart of the Alps.
This walk is ideal for families with young children or those looking for a relaxing stroll with plenty of opportunities to stop for a swim or picnic. A small entrance fee applies during summer months, as this is a managed recreational area.
3. Rigi Panorama Trail
Region: Central Switzerland
Distance: 7 km
Elevation gain: Mostly downhill (descends 300m)
Duration: 2 hours
Best season: May to October
Often called the "Queen of Mountains," Rigi offers one of Switzerland's most accessible mountain experiences. Take the cogwheel railway (Europe's oldest mountain railway) up to Rigi Kulm station, then follow the panorama trail down to Rigi Kaltbad. This mostly downhill walk provides spectacular 360-degree views of Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and on clear days, glimpses of the French and German Black Forest mountains.
The well-maintained path includes several benches and picnic spots perfectly positioned to admire the views. From Rigi Kaltbad, you can either continue hiking down or take the cable car to Weggis on Lake Lucerne.
Travel Tip
The Swiss Travel Pass includes free transportation on the Rigi railways and cable cars, making this an economical option for tourists with the pass. Otherwise, look for combined tickets that include both the ascent and descent.
Moderate Hikes: For Regular Hikers
1. The Five Lakes Trail (5-Seenweg), Zermatt
Region: Valais
Distance: 9.8 km
Elevation gain: 165m (overall descent of 454m)
Duration: 3-4 hours
Best season: July to September
This iconic hike takes you past five stunning alpine lakes, each offering different but equally impressive views of the Matterhorn. Starting at Blauherd (reached via gondola from Zermatt), the trail winds through alpine meadows and rocky terrain, passing Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and finally Leisee before descending to Sunnegga, where you can take the funicular back to Zermatt.
What makes this trail special is the changing perspective of the Matterhorn throughout the hike and the distinct character of each lake. Stellisee often provides a perfect reflection of the Matterhorn on calm mornings, while the unusual blue-green color of Grünsee comes from its algae-rich waters.
2. Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail
Region: Valais
Distance: 12.4 km
Elevation gain: 340m (net descent of 500m)
Duration: 4-5 hours
Best season: July to September
Experience the magnificent Aletsch Glacier—the largest glacier in the Alps—on this panoramic hike. Take the cable car to Moosfluh, then follow the ridge trail to Bettmerhorn and eventually down to Fiescheralp. Throughout the hike, you'll have constant views of the 23-kilometer-long river of ice flanked by 4,000-meter peaks.
The trail traverses a high alpine environment with dwarf pine forests, vibrant wildflower meadows (in season), and dramatic mountain scenery. While not technically difficult, the trail does have some exposed sections with steep drop-offs, so it's not recommended for those with extreme fear of heights.
3. Schynige Platte to First
Region: Bernese Oberland
Distance: 16 km
Elevation gain: 1,100m (net ascent of 420m)
Duration: 6 hours
Best season: July to September
Often described as one of the finest day hikes in Switzerland, this classic route offers continuous panoramic views of the Bernese Alps. From Schynige Platte (reached by a historic cogwheel railway from Wilderswil), the trail traverses alpine meadows, rocky ridges, and passes serene mountain lakes before arriving at First, where a gondola descends to Grindelwald.
The highlight of this hike is the uninterrupted views of the iconic trio—Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau—as well as turquoise Lake Brienz below. The undulating trail includes several sections with steady climbs, making it suitable for hikers with good fitness levels.
Travel Tip
Start early to catch the first train to Schynige Platte (around 8:00 am). This gives you plenty of time to complete the hike and ensures you have cable car options for the descent from First. The last gondola typically runs around 5:30-6:30 pm depending on the season.
Challenging Hikes: For Experienced Mountain Trekkers
1. Hardergrat Trail
Region: Bernese Oberland
Distance: 24 km
Elevation gain: 3,000m
Duration: 10-12 hours
Best season: July to September (only in good weather)
Known as one of Switzerland's most spectacular—and demanding—ridge hikes, the Hardergrat Trail follows a knife-edge ridge from Interlaken's Harder Kulm to Brienz. With significant exposure on both sides (drops of up to 1,500m), this trail is only suitable for experienced hikers with excellent fitness, no fear of heights, and steady nerves.
The payoff for this challenging trek is extraordinary: continuous panoramic views of Lake Brienz's turquoise waters on one side and the Bernese Alps on the other. The trail traverses several peaks, including Suggiturm, Tannhorn, and Brienzer Rothorn, before descending to Brienz.
Due to its length and difficulty, many hikers opt to complete only the first section from Harder Kulm to Suggiture (approximately 8 km), which still offers the trail's essence and spectacular views.
2. Monte Rosa Hutte Trek
Region: Valais
Distance: 9.2 km (one way)
Elevation gain: 900m
Duration: 4-5 hours (one way)
Best season: July to September
This challenging hike takes you from the Rotenboden station (on the Gornergrat railway) across the Gorner Glacier to the futuristic Monte Rosa Hut, which looks like a crystal nestled at 2,883m above sea level. The trail involves crossing a glacier (on a marked path), navigating rocky moraines, and climbing steep sections with chains for assistance.
What makes this hike extraordinary is the immersive glacier experience and the dramatic setting amidst 4,000m peaks, including Monte Rosa, Switzerland's highest mountain. The hut itself is an architectural marvel, featuring a contemporary aluminum exterior that contrasts strikingly with the natural environment.
Most hikers stay overnight at the hut (reservations required well in advance) before returning the next day, though it's possible to complete the round trip in a long day for very fit hikers.
3. Via Alpina Stage 18: Rosenlauischlucht to Meiringen
Region: Bernese Oberland
Distance: 20 km
Elevation gain: 950m (net descent of 1,200m)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Best season: July to September
This spectacular stage of the longer Via Alpina trail combines alpine passes, dramatic gorges, and historical sites. Starting at Rosenlaui, the trail climbs steeply to the Grosse Scheidegg pass before descending through alpine meadows to Schwarzwaldalp. It then follows the dramatic Reichenbach gorge, where Sherlock Holmes supposedly met his end at the Reichenbach Falls, before descending to Meiringen.
The challenges of this hike include steep sections, narrow paths along the gorge, and its considerable length. However, it offers incredible diversity of landscapes, from high alpine terrain to lush forests and dramatic waterfalls.
Travel Tip
For challenging hikes like these, always check the weather forecast carefully before setting out. Mountain conditions can change rapidly, and many of these trails become dangerous in wet or stormy conditions. Always carry emergency contacts, extra layers, and more food and water than you think you'll need.
Practical Tips for Hiking in Switzerland
When to Hike
The main hiking season in the Swiss Alps runs from June to September, with July and August offering the most reliable weather. However, these are also the busiest months. Consider these factors:
- June: Higher trails may still have snow, but wildflowers are abundant in lower meadows
- July-August: Peak season with the most reliable weather and all mountain huts and facilities open
- September: Fewer crowds and beautiful fall colors, though weather becomes less predictable
- October: Many higher trails may have snow, and many mountain facilities close, but lower trails can be stunning with fall foliage
Essential Gear
Even for easy hikes, certain equipment is essential in the Alps:
- Proper hiking boots with ankle support and good tread
- Layered clothing including a waterproof/windproof outer layer
- Backpack with rain cover
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) – UV exposure increases with altitude
- Map and compass or GPS device (with backup battery)
- First aid kit
- Plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person for a day hike)
- Snacks and emergency food
- Hiking poles – especially helpful for descents
For challenging hikes, additional equipment may be necessary, such as microspikes for icy sections, a helmet for routes with rockfall danger, or specific glacier equipment if applicable.
Transportation Tips
Switzerland's excellent public transportation system makes it easy to access most trailheads:
- Swiss Travel Pass: If you're planning multiple hikes, consider investing in a Swiss Travel Pass, which covers all public transportation and offers discounts on many mountain cable cars and railways
- SBB Mobile App: Download the SBB app for real-time schedules and to purchase tickets
- Hiking-Specific Transportation: Many areas operate special hiking buses during summer months that connect popular trailheads
- One-Way Hikes: Thanks to excellent public transportation, many of Switzerland's best hikes can be done point-to-point without needing to return to your starting location
Accommodations Along Trails
For multi-day hikes or if you want to stay in the mountains:
- Mountain Huts (Berghütten): The Swiss Alpine Club maintains a network of mountain huts offering dormitory accommodations and meals. Reservations are essential, especially in peak season
- Mountain Hotels: More comfortable than huts but still in spectacular locations, these range from simple guesthouses to luxury mountain lodges
- Valley Towns: Basing yourself in valley towns like Grindelwald, Zermatt, or Lauterbrunnen provides access to numerous day hikes while offering comfortable accommodations
Travel Tip
Consider joining the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) or a reciprocal club in your home country if you plan multiple hut stays. Members receive significant discounts on accommodation at SAC huts.
Responsible Hiking in the Alps
As outdoor enthusiasts, it's our responsibility to protect the alpine environment we enjoy. Please follow these principles:
- Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and protect fragile alpine flora
- Pack out all trash – there are no garbage bins on most trails
- Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance from alpine animals like ibex and chamois
- Leave no trace – take only photos, leave only footprints
- Respect closed trails – closures are typically for safety or environmental protection reasons
- Support local businesses in mountain communities
Switzerland's alpine landscape offers an incredible diversity of hiking experiences, from gentle meadow walks to challenging mountain traverses. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll with the family or seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure along exposed ridges, the Swiss Alps deliver world-class trails with unforgettable views. With proper preparation and respect for the mountain environment, hiking in Switzerland will provide some of the most rewarding outdoor experiences of your life.
