20 Best Hikes in Switzerland
Keep reading to discover the best hikes in Switzerland to enjoy one of the country’s most popular hobby!
Switzerland is a hiker’s paradise, offering an incredible variety of trails for all levels. From towering alpine peaks to serene lakeside paths, Switzerland’s diverse landscapes make it one of the best hiking destinations in the world.
One of the best things about hiking in Switzerland is the country’s excellent infrastructure. Well-marked trails, easy access by public transport, and plenty of mountain huts make planning your hike stress-free.
Keep reading to discover the BEST hikes in Switzerland for all levels and wants!
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In This Post
Best Hikes in Switzerland for Beginners
Ideal for first-time hikers or those looking for easy, accessible trails.
Lake Bachalpsee (First, Grindelwald)
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
Distance: 6 km round trip
Lake Bachalpsee is a dream hike for beginners in Switzerland, offering easy trails, jaw-dropping views, and a peaceful alpine lake. Starting at First (reached by cable car from Grindelwald), this scenic trail has minimal elevation, making it perfect for those new to Swiss hikes. The lake’s reflection of the surrounding mountains is a photographer’s paradise!
INSIDER TIP: Go early for fewer crowds and bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake. Plus, look out for playful marmots along the trail—they’re a fun addition to the stunning scenery!
Lavaux Vineyard Terraces (Montreux)
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
Distance: 10 km one way
The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces are a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Switzerland’s most beautiful beginner-friendly hikes. This gentle 10 km trail winds through terraced vineyards overlooking Lake Geneva, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. It’s an easy hike, with multiple entry and exit points, so you can adjust the distance to your preference.
INSIDER TIP: Visit in autumn to see the vineyards in full color! Stop by one of the many wine cellars along the trail for a glass of local wine—an unforgettable Swiss experience.
Riffelsee Lake Hike (Zermatt)
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆
Distance: 6 km round trip
The Riffelsee Lake Hike is a must for beginners wanting iconic views of the Matterhorn without the challenge of steep terrain. Starting from the Rotenboden train station above Zermatt, this 6 km round trip trail is mostly gentle, leading to the serene Riffelsee Lake, where you can capture the Matterhorn’s reflection on clear days.
INSIDER TIP: Take the early morning train to Rotenboden for the best lighting and fewer crowds. And don’t forget your camera—this spot offers one of the best Matterhorn reflections in Switzerland!
Panorama Trail (Schynige Platte)
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆
Distance: 6.5 km loop
The Panorama Trail at Schynige Platte is ideal for beginners seeking sweeping alpine views without intense climbs.
Starting from the Schynige Platte railway station, this 6.5 km loop offers breathtaking vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks, along with stunning wildflower fields in summer. The trail is well-marked and mostly flat, making it accessible for all levels.
INSIDER TIP: Bring binoculars for spotting alpine wildlife like ibex and eagles. For the full experience, ride the historic cogwheel train from Wilderswil—it’s a scenic journey in itself!
Easy Hikes in Switzerland
Gentle trails for relaxed day trips, perfect for families or casual hikers.
The Rigi Panorama Trail (Mt. Rigi)
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
Distance: 7 km one way
The Rigi Panorama Trail is one of Switzerland’s easiest and most scenic hikes, perfect for beginners. This 7 km trail stretches along Mt. Rigi, also known as the “Queen of the Mountains,” with sweeping views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps. Starting from Rigi Kaltbad, it follows a gentle path to Rigi Scheidegg, with cozy spots to rest along the way.
INSIDER TIP: Hike in the late afternoon for magical golden-hour views. Afterward, unwind at the Rigi Kaltbad Mineral Baths—a relaxing way to end your adventure!
Oeschinensee Lake Hike (Kandersteg)
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆
Distance: 3 km one way
The Oeschinensee Lake Hike is an accessible gem for beginners, leading to one of Switzerland’s most picturesque alpine lakes. This 3 km trail starts from the Oeschinen gondola station above Kandersteg and takes you through lush forests and gentle slopes to the turquoise waters of Oeschinensee. The lake, framed by dramatic mountain peaks, is perfect for a peaceful day hike.
INSIDER TIP: Bring swimwear in summer—the lake is chilly but refreshing! And for an extra thrill, rent a rowboat to explore the lake’s quieter spots.
Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail (Bettmeralp)
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆
Distance: 6 km one way
The Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail offers beginners a chance to hike alongside the breathtaking Aletsch Glacier, the largest in the Alps.
Starting from Bettmerhorn, this 6 km trail meanders through alpine landscapes with spectacular views of the glacier and surrounding peaks. The route is relatively flat, making it manageable for all levels.
INSIDER TIP: Go in late summer or early fall for the clearest views of the glacier. Stop at one of the viewpoints along the way for unbeatable photo ops, especially at sunset!
Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg (Jungfrau Region)
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
Distance: 4.5 km one way
The Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg hike is a scenic and easy trek perfect for beginners in the Jungfrau Region.
This 4.5 km trail offers breathtaking views of the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains as you stroll through lush meadows dotted with wildflowers. The path is well-marked and mostly flat, making it an enjoyable experience for all.
INSIDER TIP: Take the cable car from Wengen to Männlichen to save energy for the hike! Pack a picnic to enjoy at Kleine Scheidegg while soaking in the stunning alpine scenery.
Medium Difficulty Hikes in Switzerland
Great for hikers with some experience looking for moderate challenges and rewarding views.
The Eiger Trail (Grindelwald)
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆
Distance: 6 km one way
The Eiger Trail is a thrilling hike for those looking for a bit more challenge without extreme elevation. This 6 km trail runs along the foot of the famous Eiger North Face, offering stunning views of the iconic mountain and the surrounding glaciers.
The path features some rocky sections, but it’s well-marked and accessible for those with a moderate fitness level.
INSIDER TIP: Start early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the mountains. Don’t forget to stop at the Eiger Glacier station along the way for a quick snack and breathtaking views!
Hardergrat Trail (Interlaken)
Difficulty: ★★★★☆
Distance: 12 km one way
The Hardergrat Trail is a thrilling adventure for experienced hikers seeking breathtaking views and a challenging experience.
Stretching 12 km along a narrow ridge, this hike offers panoramic vistas of Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, and the surrounding Alps. While the trail is stunning, it features steep drops and rocky sections, making it essential to have a good fitness level and proper gear.
INSIDER TIP: Start early to allow ample time for the hike and enjoy the views in different light. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for changing weather conditions—it can be windy up there!
Difficult Hikes in Switzerland
For experienced hikers seeking more physically demanding, technical trails with rugged terrain.
Haute Route (Chamonix to Zermatt)
Difficulty: ★★★★★
Distance: Approximately 180 km (over 12 stages)
The Haute Route is one of the most iconic and challenging hikes in the Alps, stretching from Chamonix to Zermatt.
This trek covers around 180 km of rugged terrain and requires a high level of fitness and experience, as hikers navigate alpine trails, glaciers, and mountain passes. With stunning views of peaks like the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc, this hike is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for seasoned trekkers.
INSIDER TIP: Consider hiring a guide if you’re unfamiliar with alpine hiking. Also, plan your stages carefully and book accommodations in advance, as some huts fill up quickly during peak season. Don’t forget your camera—the scenery is simply breathtaking!
Piz Bernina (Pontresina)
Difficulty: ★★★★★
Distance: Approximately 20 km round trip
Piz Bernina is a challenging hike that attracts experienced mountaineers and hikers seeking a true alpine adventure.
This trek begins in Pontresina and ascends to the summit of Piz Bernina, the highest peak in the Eastern Alps. The route involves steep ascents, rocky sections, and potential glacier crossings, making it crucial to have advanced skills in navigation and climbing.
INSIDER TIP: Ensure you’re well-acclimatized to the altitude before tackling this hike. Early summer is the best time to attempt the climb, but check weather conditions and consider hiring a mountain guide for safety.
Most Scenic Hikes in Switzerland
These hikes offer the most breathtaking views and landscapes across Switzerland.
Oeschinensee Panorama Hike (Kandersteg)
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆
Distance: 7 km round trip
The Oeschinensee Panorama Hike is a stunning journey that combines beautiful landscapes with a serene alpine lake experience. Starting from Kandersteg, this 7 km round trip takes you around Oeschinensee, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear waters.
The trail features a mix of gentle slopes and some rocky sections, making it suitable for hikers with moderate experience.
INSIDER TIP: Plan your hike for early morning or late afternoon to capture the lake’s vibrant colors in the best light. Don’t miss the opportunity to relax by the water or even take a dip on a warm day—it’s a true Swiss gem!
Lake Bachalpsee (First, Grindelwald)
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
Distance: 6 km round trip
The Lake Bachalpsee hike is one of the most picturesque and accessible hikes in Switzerland, making it perfect for those seeking stunning views without a strenuous trek.
Starting from First, reached by cable car from Grindelwald, this 6 km round trip trail leads you through lush meadows to the stunning alpine lake, surrounded by majestic peaks. The reflection of the mountains in the lake is a photographer’s dream!
INSIDER TIP: Visit in the early morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere and catch the lake in its most tranquil state. Pack a light picnic to enjoy by the water—it’s a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the breathtaking scenery!
Lauterbrunnen Valley Hike
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
Distance 10 km round trip
The Lauterbrunnen Valley Hike is a stunning and easy trek that showcases one of Switzerland’s most beautiful valleys, known for its dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
This 10 km round trip trail runs along the valley floor, taking you past iconic sites like the famous Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls. The well-maintained path is mostly flat, making it accessible for hikers of all ages.
INSIDER TIP: Stop at the charming village of Lauterbrunnen for a coffee break or lunch at a local café. Don’t forget your camera—this valley is often referred to as the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls,” so be prepared for plenty of picturesque spots!
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SSW
