20 of our Favorite Swiss Hikes

1. Mount Rigi Panorama Trail

Where: Mount Rigi Panorama Trail is in Switzerland, specifically in the cantons of Schwyz and Lucerne.
Starting point: Rigi Kulm railway station
End point: Rigi Kaltbad railway station

Time needed: 2-3 hours.
Distance and Type: 6.4 kilometers circuit
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

When to hike: The trail is open year-round, but the best time to hike is from May to October when the weather is mild.
Where to stay: There are several accommodation options in the nearby towns of Weggis and Vitznau.

The Mount Rigi Panorama Trail is a beautiful loop trail that offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps, Lake Lucerne, and the surrounding countryside. The trail starts at the Rigi Kulm railway station, which can be reached by taking the cogwheel train from Vitznau or Weggis. From there, hikers will follow the well-marked trail along the ridge of Mount Rigi, passing through forests and meadows and enjoying panoramic views at every turn. The trail is easy to moderate, with some uphill sections, and is suitable for hikers of all levels. Along the way, hikers can stop at several mountain restaurants and cafes to enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the stunning views. The trail ends at the Rigi Kaltbad railway station, where hikers can take the cogwheel train back to their starting point. Overall, the Mount Rigi Panorama Trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting the Lucerne region of Switzerland.

2. Matterhorn

Where: Swiss Alps on the border between Switzerland and Italy
Starting point: Zermatt Village, Switzerland
End point: Zermatt Village, Switzerland

Time needed: 2-3 days.
Distance and Type: 10-15 km circuit
Difficulty: Difficult

When to hike: The best time to hike the Matterhorn is from mid-July to mid-September when the weather is mild, and the climbing conditions are good.
Where to stay: The village of Zermatt offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels.

The Matterhorn is one of the most iconic peaks in the Swiss Alps and is a popular destination for experienced climbers looking for a challenge. The hike up the Matterhorn involves steep ascents and descents, and requires technical climbing skills and equipment, including ropes, harnesses, and crampons. There are several routes up the Matterhorn, each with its own challenges and rewards, but all of them offer stunning views of the surrounding Alps and valleys. The hike typically takes 2-3 days and requires overnight stays in mountain huts or tents. Hikers must be in excellent physical condition and have previous alpine climbing experience to attempt the Matterhorn. Overall, the Matterhorn is a challenging and rewarding climb that offers some of the most spectacular views in the Swiss Alps.

3. Parc Ela

Where: Canton of Graubünden, Eastern Switzerland
Starting point: Bergün, Albula Valley
End point: Filisur, Albula Valley

Time needed: 4-5 hours.
Distance and Type: 11.5 kilometers circuit
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

When to hike: The best time to hike the trail is from June to October, when the weather is mild, and the trail is free of snow.
Where to stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses in Bergün and Filisur, as well as camping options in the surrounding area.

The Parc Ela Panorama Trail is a scenic hike through the Albula Valley in eastern Switzerland. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Piz Ela, which stands at over 3,000 meters tall. Along the way, hikers will pass through traditional Swiss villages, cross wooden bridges over mountain streams, and walk through fragrant pine forests. The trail is well-marked and maintained and is suitable for hikers of all levels. Hikers can also take a side trip to the nearby Morteratsch Glacier, which is one of the largest glaciers in the eastern Alps.

4. Zermatt 5 Lakes Hike

Where: Zermatt, Switzerland
Starting point: Sunnegga funicular station
End point: Sunnegga funicular station

Time needed: 3-4 hours.
Distance and Type: 9 kilometers circuit
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

When to hike: The best time to hike the Zermatt 5 Lakes Hike is from June to October, when the weather is mild, and the trails are clear.
Where to stay: Zermatt has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to hostels and apartments.

The Zermatt 5 Lakes Hike is a scenic and relatively easy hike that offers stunning views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding alpine scenery. The trail starts at the Sunnegga funicular station and follows a loop that passes by five crystal-clear mountain lakes. Along the way, hikers will also encounter charming alpine villages, wildflowers, and grazing cows. The trail is well-marked and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Hikers should plan to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking shoes.

CrossFit Nearby: CrossFit Zermatt is in the heart of Zermatt and here is the link of their instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitnessvikingzermatt

5. Pizol Lake (5-Lake Hike)

Where: Pizol, Switzerland
Starting point: Pizolhütte or Wangs cable car station

End point: Pizolhütte or Wangs cable car station
Time needed: 3-4 hours
Distance and Type: 6.5 kilometers circuit

Difficulty: Moderate
When to hike: The best time to hike the Pizol Lake (5-Lake Hike) is from June to October, when the weather is good and the trail is free from snow.
Where to stay: There are several accommodation options available in the nearby towns of Wangs and Bad Ragaz.

The Pizol Lake (5-Lake Hike) is a beautiful hike that takes you past five stunning alpine lakes. The trail begins at Pizolhütte or Wangs cable car station and climbs up through the lush forest. Along the way, you will pass by Wangsersee, Wildsee, Schottensee, Schwarzsee, and Baschalvasee, each with its unique charm and beauty. The turquoise-blue waters of the lakes, surrounded by rocky cliffs and green meadows, offer breathtaking views. The hike is moderate in difficulty and can be completed in 3-4 hours. The trail is well-marked and accessible for hikers of all levels.

6. Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail

Where: Jungfrau-Aletsch Protected Area, Switzerland
Starting point: Village of Bettmeralp

End point: Village of Riederalp,
Time needed: 3-4 hours.
Distance and Type: 14.5 kilometers circuit

Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
When to hike: The best time to hike the Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail is from June to September when the weather is generally mild and the trail is accessible.
Where to stay: There are several accommodation options in the towns of Bettmeralp and Riederalp, including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Camping is not permitted in the Jungfrau-Aletsch Protected Area.

The Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail is a stunning hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps. The trail winds its way through forests, across meadows, and over rocky terrain, providing hikers with a variety of landscapes to admire. Along the way, hikers will also encounter several alpine lakes and streams, as well as traditional Swiss mountain villages. The trail culminates with a panoramic view of the Aletsch Glacier, which is truly awe-inspiring. Hikers should be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as appropriate clothing and footwear for the trail’s changing terrain.

CrossFit Nearby: The closest box is CrossFit Brig, which is about a 30-minute drive from Bettmeralp.

Here is the link of their Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starforce_gym

7. TRIFTBRÜCKE

Where: Gadmen Municipality, Switzerland
Starting point: Triftbahn cable car station
End point: Trift Hut or the Trift Glacier viewpoint

Time needed: 5-6 hours.
Distance and Type: 10 kilometers circuit
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult

When to hike: The best time to hike the Trift Bridge is from June to October, when the weather is mild and the cable car is in operation.
Where to stay: There are several accommodation options in the nearby town of Innertkirchen, including hotels, guesthouses, and campsites.

The Trift Bridge hike is one of the most popular hikes in Switzerland, known for its stunning views of the Trift Glacier and the Swiss Alps. The highlight of the hike is the Trift Bridge, a 170-meter suspension bridge that hangs over the Trift Glacier. The hike begins at the Triftbahn cable car station and takes hikers through a beautiful alpine landscape with rocky terrain and meadows filled with wildflowers. The hike can be challenging at times, with some steep sections and narrow paths, but the incredible views and the experience of crossing the Trift Bridge make it all worthwhile.

8. Seealpsee Hike Trail

Where: Alpstein mountain range, Northeastern Switzerland
Starting point: Wasserauen train station
End point: Wasserauen train station

Time needed: 3-4 hours.
Distance and Type: 5-6 kilometers circuit
Difficulty: Moderate

When to hike: The best time to hike the Seealpsee Trail is from May to October, when the weather is milder, and the trail is free of snow.
Where to stay: There are several accommodation options available in the nearby town of Appenzell.

The Seealpsee Hike Trail is a scenic and moderately challenging loop trail that takes hikers through the beautiful Alpstein mountain range. The trail starts at the Wasserauen train station and follows a well-marked path through forests, meadows, and rocky terrain. Along the way, hikers will pass several stunning viewpoints, including the Seealpsee Lake, which is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. The trail also offers impressive views of the Säntis mountain peak and the surrounding mountain range. Overall, the Seealpsee Hike Trail is a great choice for hikers looking for a rewarding and relatively short hike in the Swiss Alps.

9. Creux du Van

Where: Canton of Neuchâtel, Western Switzerland
Starting point: Parking lot of Ferme Robert
End point: Parking lot of Ferme Robert

Time needed: 3-4 hours.
Distance and Type: 9.5 kilometers circuit
Difficulty: Moderate

When to hike: The best time to hike Creux du Van is between May and October, when the weather is mild, and the trail is not covered in snow.
Where to stay: There are several hotels and lodges in the nearby town of Neuchâtel where you can stay, such as the Hôtel Palafitte or the Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac.

Creux du Van is a natural amphitheater formed by the erosion of limestone rock by a glacier during the last ice age. The hike to Creux du Van offers stunning views of the amphitheater and the surrounding landscape, including the nearby Lake of Neuchâtel. Along the way, hikers will pass through forests, meadows, and rocky terrain. At the top, there is a viewpoint where hikers can take in the breathtaking scenery of the natural amphitheater.

10. Uina Gorge

Where: Swiss National Park, Canton of Graubünden, Switzerland
Starting point: Ofen Pass
End point: Sesvenna Hut

Time needed: 6-7 hours.
Distance and Type: 12 kilometers circuit
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult

When to hike: The best time to hike the Uina Gorge trail is from June to September when the weather is mild, and the trail is clear of snow.
Where to stay: There are several accommodations available in the nearby towns of Zernez and Scuol.

The Uina Gorge hike is a stunning hike that takes you through the Swiss National Park. The trail follows the Uina River through the gorge, which has been carved out by the glacier over thousands of years. The hike offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and there are several places along the trail where you can stop and take in the breathtaking scenery. At the end of the hike, you will reach the Sesvenna Hut, where you can enjoy a meal and take in the views of the surrounding mountains.

11. Eiger Trail

Where: Bernese Alps, Switzerland
Starting point: Eigergletscher station
End point: Alpiglen station

Time needed: 2.5-3 hours.
Distance and Type: 6.4 kilometers point to point
Difficulty: Moderate

When to hike: The Eiger Trail is open from June to October, depending on weather conditions. The best time to hike is during the summer months, when the weather is usually clear and dry.
Where to stay: Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen are the closest towns to the Eiger Trail and offer a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and campsites.

The Eiger Trail is a stunning hike that offers breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. The trail winds through alpine meadows, past cascading waterfalls, and along steep mountain ridges. Hikers will have the opportunity to see the famous Eiger North Face up close, which is one of the most challenging climbs in the world. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, but hikers should be prepared for some steep and rocky sections along the way. Overall, the Eiger Trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting the Bernese Alps.

12. Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail

Where: Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Starting Point: Lauterbrunnen train station
End Point: Stechelberg cable car station

Time Needed: 3-4 hours
Distance and Type: 8.5 kilometers point to point
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

When to Hike: The best time to hike the Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail is from May to October, when the weather is generally mild, and the trail is clear of snow.
Where to Stay: Lauterbrunnen has a variety of accommodations, from hotels to guesthouses and apartments.

The Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail is a scenic hike that follows the Lauterbrunnen valley from the village of Lauterbrunnen to the cable car station in Stechelberg. Along the way, hikers will pass by several waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls, as well as quaint Swiss villages and lush green pastures. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with only a few moderate inclines. At the end of the hike, hikers can take the cable car back up to Lauterbrunnen or continue to the nearby village of Mürren for additional hiking opportunities.

13. Grosse Scheidegg to First

Where: Swiss Alps, Canton of Bern
Starting Point: Grosse Scheidegg
End Point: First

Time Needed: 3-4 hours
Distance and Type: 8.5 kilometers point to point
Difficulty: Moderate

When to Hike: The best time to hike Grosse Scheidegg to First is during the summer months, from June to September.
Where to Stay: There are various accommodations available in Grindelwald, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals.

Grosse Scheidegg to First is a stunning hike that offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. The trail winds its way through lush green forests, past bubbling streams, and up steep inclines that reward hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The hike begins at Grosse Scheidegg, a mountain pass that offers stunning views of the Wetterhorn, Eiger, and Mönch mountains. From here, hikers will follow the trail as it winds its way through the alpine meadows and up steep rocky paths towards First. Along the way, hikers will pass by the beautiful Bachalpsee lake and be treated to stunning views of the Bernese Alps. The hike ends at First, a popular tourist destination that offers a range of activities including hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding.

14. Rhine Gorge Trail

Where: Canton of Graubünden, Eastern Switzerland
Starting Point: Reichenau
End Point: Ilanz

Time Needed: 6-7 hours
Distance and Type: 20 kilometers point to point
Difficulty: Moderate

When to Hike: The best time to hike the Rhine Gorge Trail is during the spring, summer, or fall, when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its peak.
Where to Stay: There are several towns and villages along the Rhine Gorge Trail where hikers can find accommodations, including Reichenau, Bonaduz, and Ilanz.

The Rhine Gorge Trail is a stunning hike that follows the Rhine River through a deep, narrow gorge. Along the way, hikers will enjoy breathtaking views of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear pools. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, with several picnic areas and rest stops along the way. The highlight of the hike is the Viamala Gorge, a dramatic section of the trail where the Rhine River has carved its way through solid rock, creating a series of deep pools and waterfalls. The Rhine Gorge Trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting the Graubünden region of Switzerland.

15. Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg (Grindelwald)

Where: Grindelwald, Switzerland
Starting Point: Männlichen cable car station
End Point: Kleine Scheidegg train station

Time Needed: 2-3 hours.
Distance and Type: 7.5 kilometers point to point
Difficulty: Moderate

When to Hike: The best time to hike the trail is from June to September when the weather is mild and the trail is free of snow. However, be aware that the trail may be crowded during peak season.
Where to Stay: There are plenty of accommodation options in Grindelwald, including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments.

The Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg hike is a popular trail that offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. The trail starts at the Männlichen cable car station and follows a well-marked path through alpine meadows and forests. Along the way, hikers will pass by the picturesque village of Wengen before arriving at Kleine Scheidegg train station. This trail is relatively easy and suitable for hikers of all levels, although there are some steep sections that require a bit of effort. The best part of this hike is the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

16. Bannalpsee Lake Hike (Engelberg)

Where: Engelberg, Switzerland
Starting Point: Bannalpsee cable car station
End Point: Bannalpsee cable car station

Time Needed: 3-4 hours.
Distance and Type: 7.5 kilometers circuit
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult

When to Hike: The best time to hike the Bannalpsee Lake Hike is from June to October, when the weather is mild, and the trail is free from snow.
Where to Stay: There are several hotels and other accommodation options available in Engelberg, which is just a short distance from the starting point of the hike.

The Bannalpsee Lake Hike is a beautiful trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding alpine scenery. The trail starts at the Bannalpsee cable car station and follows a well-marked path through forests and meadows, past waterfalls and streams, and up to the picturesque Bannalpsee Lake. Along the way, hikers will enjoy breathtaking views of the Engelberg Valley and the surrounding mountains. The lake itself is a popular destination for fishing and swimming, and there are several picnic areas along the shoreline where hikers can stop and enjoy a meal or snack. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all experience levels, making it a great option for families and groups of friends looking for a scenic and enjoyable day hike in the Swiss Alps.

17. Lötschental Valley Hike (Blatten to Kippel)

Where: Lötschental Valley, Canton of Valais, Switzerland
Starting point: Blatten village
End point: Kippel village

Time needed: Approximately 3-4 hours
Distance and Type: 10 kilometers point to point
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult

When to hike: The best time to hike the Lötschental Valley is from June to October.
Where to stay: There are several hotels and lodges located in Blatten and Kippel villages. Some popular options include Hotel Nest- und Bietschhorn in Riederalp, Hotel Lauberhorn in Wengen, and Hotel Bären in Kandersteg.

The Lötschental Valley hike offers a scenic journey through a picturesque valley with stunning mountain views. The trail takes you through quaint Swiss villages, past traditional wooden houses, and alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Lötschentaler Aletsch river. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful Alpine scenery, including lush forests, rolling hills, and snow-capped peaks. The hike is not too strenuous, and the trail is well marked, making it suitable for most hikers.

18. Grimsel Pass to the Rhone Glacier (Guttannen)

Where: Guttannen, Switzerland
Starting Point: Grimsel Pass
End Point: Rhone Glacier
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Distance and Type: 7.5 kilometers point to point
Difficulty: Moderate
When to Hike: Late spring to early fall when the trail is free of snow and ice.
Where to Stay: There are several hotels and lodges in the nearby town of Guttannen, such as Hotel Grimselblick and Hotel Schwarzwaldalp.

The Grimsel Pass to Rhone Glacier hike is a scenic route that takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps. The trail starts at Grimsel Pass, which is located at an altitude of 2,164 meters (7,100 feet). From here, you’ll hike down a winding path that takes you through lush alpine meadows, across crystal clear streams, and past several small lakes.

As you continue along the trail, you’ll eventually come to the Rhone Glacier, which is one of the largest glaciers in the Alps. The glacier is an impressive sight, with its sparkling blue ice and jagged peaks looming overhead. There are several viewing platforms and observation decks that offer stunning views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains.

The hike is moderately challenging, with some steep inclines and rocky terrain. However, the stunning scenery and panoramic views make it well worth the effort. The trail is also well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great option for hikers of all skill levels.

Overall, the Grimsel Pass to Rhone Glacier hike is a must-do for anyone visiting the Swiss Alps. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll through some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes, this hike is sure to leave you awestruck.

19. Pilatus Panorama Trail

Where: Pilatus Massif, Lucerne, Switzerland
Starting point: Kriens or Alpnachstad
End point: Kriens or Alpnachstad
Time needed: 4-5 hours.
Distance: 11 kilometers circuit
Difficulty: Moderate
When to hike: Late spring to early autumn (May to October)
Where to stay: Lucerne or nearby towns.

The Pilatus Panorama Trail is a beautiful loop trail that offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne. The trail starts at either Kriens or Alpnachstad and follows a steep uphill climb through lush green forests and meadows to the summit of Pilatus, which stands at 2,132 meters (6,995 feet) above sea level.

Along the way, hikers will be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lakes, including views of Mount Rigi and the Bernese Alps. The trail is well-marked and includes several rest stops and restaurants where hikers can take a break and enjoy a meal or a drink with a view. The descent from the summit takes hikers through scenic alpine meadows and pastures, offering a chance to spot local wildlife like marmots and ibex. The trail ends back at the starting point, either Kriens or Alpnachstad, where hikers can catch a train or cable car back to their accommodations in Lucerne or nearby towns.

20. St. Beatus Caves to Niederhorn Trail

Where: Beatenberg, Bernese Oberland, Switzerland
Starting point: St. Beatus Caves
End point: Niederhorn
Time needed: 5-6 hours.
Distance: 11 kilometerspoint to point
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
When to hike: The trail is typically open from May to October, but the best time to hike is during the summer months.
Where to stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses in Beatenberg, which is located near the starting point of the trail.

The St. Beatus Caves to Niederhorn Trail is a stunning hike that offers incredible views of Lake Thun and the surrounding mountains. The trail begins at the St. Beatus Caves, where visitors can explore the underground caverns and learn about the history of the area. From there, the trail climbs steadily uphill, passing through lush forests and open meadows before reaching the summit of Niederhorn. Along the way, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The descent from Niederhorn is steep and rocky, but it offers even more breathtaking views of the lake and the mountains. Overall, this hike is a great option for those who are looking for a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views.