Switzerland is one of Europe’s top destinations for nature lovers, famous for its snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and charming villages. Hiking in Switzerland offers breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and unforgettable experiences.
This guide explores the top 10 scenic hikes in Switzerland, covering trail difficulty, best times to visit, nearby attractions, and practical tips for a perfect adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced hiker, there’s a trail for everyone.
1. The Matterhorn Glacier Trail
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Location: Zermatt, Valais
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Distance: 6 km
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Highlights: Spectacular views of the Matterhorn, glaciers, alpine flora
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Tips: Start early to avoid crowds; bring sunscreen and layers
The Matterhorn Glacier Trail offers iconic views of the Matterhorn and nearby glaciers. Walking along well-marked paths, hikers can enjoy the serene alpine environment and photo opportunities at every turn.
2. Lake Oeschinen Trail
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Location: Kandersteg, Bernese Oberland
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Distance: 7 km loop
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Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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Highlights: Turquoise lake, mountain reflections, boat rentals
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Tips: Visit in summer for boating; winter offers snowshoeing
This hike circles Lake Oeschinen, one of Switzerland’s most picturesque alpine lakes. Its calm waters mirror the surrounding peaks, making it ideal for nature photography.
3. Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail
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Location: Fiesch, Valais
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Distance: 12 km
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Highlights: Views of Europe’s largest glacier, cable car access, scenic overlooks
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Tips: Check cable car schedules; wear sturdy hiking shoes
The Aletsch Glacier Trail provides a panoramic view of the massive Aletsch Glacier. The trail combines moderate walking with incredible landscapes and easy access points via cable car.
4. Eiger Trail
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Location: Grindelwald, Bernese Alps
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Distance: 6 km
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Highlights: Base of the Eiger North Face, alpine flowers, mountain streams
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Tips: Bring water and snacks; trail can be windy
This trail runs along the base of the Eiger North Face, offering an up-close experience of one of the Alps’ most famous peaks. It’s ideal for hikers wanting adventure without extreme difficulty.
5. Lauterbrunnen Valley Hike
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Location: Lauterbrunnen, Bernese Oberland
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Distance: 10 km
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Difficulty: Easy
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Highlights: Waterfalls, charming villages, lush valley landscapes
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Tips: Wear waterproof shoes; carry a camera
The Lauterbrunnen Valley is known as the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls.” The hike passes quaint villages and lush meadows, making it perfect for families and photographers.
6. Schynige Platte to First Trail
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Location: Interlaken
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Distance: 16 km
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Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
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Highlights: Panoramic views, alpine flora, mountain railway access
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Tips: Use cable cars to shorten the hike; carry enough water
This trail offers some of the best panoramic views of the Bernese Alps and the famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The alpine flora along the trail adds vibrant colors during spring and summer.
7. Creux du Van Hike
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Location: Neuchâtel Jura
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Distance: 14 km
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Highlights: Natural rocky amphitheater, cliffs, wildlife spotting
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Tips: Bring a map; early morning is best for wildlife
The Creux du Van is a massive natural rock arena offering dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations. Hikers can spot ibex and other alpine wildlife along the route.
8. Pizol 5 Lakes Hike
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Location: St. Gallen
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Distance: 14 km
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Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
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Highlights: Five alpine lakes, waterfalls, mountain views
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Tips: Carry waterproof boots; hike during summer
This trail features five beautiful alpine lakes, each with clear waters and stunning mountain backdrops. It’s considered one of Switzerland’s most scenic hikes for photographers.
9. Rigi Panorama Trail
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Location: Lucerne
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Distance: 10 km
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Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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Highlights: Panoramic views of Lake Lucerne, alpine meadows, cable car access
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Tips: Take the cogwheel train for easy access; ideal for sunrise hikes
Rigi is known as the “Queen of the Mountains.” Hikers enjoy gentle paths with breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and valleys.
10. Glacier Express Hike Segment (Filisur to Zermatt)
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Location: Graubünden / Valais
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Distance: Varies by segment
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Highlights: Scenic train views combined with short hiking segments, alpine meadows, glaciers
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Tips: Combine hiking with scenic train rides; check weather conditions
For those who love both hiking and train travel, this trail segment provides flexibility and access to some of Switzerland’s most dramatic scenery.
Traveler Tips
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Start hikes early to avoid crowds
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Wear layered clothing; weather can change quickly
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Carry snacks, water, and a map
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Use trekking poles for longer trails
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Check public transport options for trailheads
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Respect local wildlife and trail rules
Suggested Multi-Day Hiking Itinerary
Day 1: Matterhorn Glacier Trail + Zermatt village
Day 2: Lake Oeschinen Trail + Kandersteg
Day 3: Lauterbrunnen Valley + Trümmelbach Falls
Day 4: Eiger Trail + Grindelwald sightseeing
Day 5: Schynige Platte to First or Pizol 5 Lakes
This itinerary balances easy, moderate, and challenging hikes, giving travelers a mix of scenery, culture, and adventure.
Conclusion
Switzerland’s hiking trails offer stunning views, well-marked paths, and unforgettable experiences for travelers from Europe, the US, and beyond. From iconic alpine peaks to serene valleys and crystal-clear lakes, each trail provides a unique adventure for hikers of all levels.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an experienced trekker, Switzerland’s trails promise memorable landscapes, cultural highlights, and breathtaking moments in the heart of Europe.