Switzerland is a dreamland for hikers and trekkers. With snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, charming alpine villages, and some of the most accessible mountains in the world, the country is perfectly built for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for easy half-day hikes, multi-day hut-to-hut treks, or thrilling via ferratas, you’ll find some of the best trekking Switzerland has to offer across its breathtaking landscapes.
In this article, we’ll explore the best trekking Switzerland, covering the Bernese Oberland, Valais, Graubünden (Engadine Valley), and more. You’ll also find practical tips, difficulty levels, transportation options, and hidden gems your average tourist guide misses.
Why Trekking in Switzerland is Special
- Accessibility: Gondolas, funiculars, and mountain buses make even high alpine trails reachable.
- Diversity: From turquoise lakes like Oeschinensee and Bachalpsee to knife-edge ridges like the Stoos Gratwanderung.
- Culture: Traditional alpine huts, Rösti lunches, and spa towns like Leukerbad.
- All Levels: From family-friendly strolls in Seealpsee to challenging multi-day treks like the Via Alpina.
Best Trekking in the Bernese Oberland
The Bernese Oberland is perhaps Switzerland’s most famous trekking region, with dramatic peaks like the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
1. Oeschinensee (Kandersteg)
- Why go: A turquoise lake surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls.
- Details: 1–2 hours, easy, gondola access from Kandersteg.
- Highlight: Perfect family hike with picnic spots.
2. Faulhornweg (Grindelwald–Schynige Platte)
- Why go: One of the most scenic ridge hikes in the Alps.
- Details: 6–7 hours, moderate to challenging.
- Route: Take the First Gondola from Grindelwald, pass Bachalpsee, hike over Faulhorn, and finish at Schynige Platte.
3. Bachalpsee (Grindelwald First)
- Why go: Mirror-like lake reflecting the Wetterhorn.
- Details: 2–3 hours, easy to moderate.
- Highlight: One of the most photographed lakes in Switzerland.
4. Mürren & Schilthorn Region
- Mürren Via Ferrata (Klettersteig Mürren–Gimmelwald): For thrill seekers, a cliffside trek with ladders and steel cables overlooking Lauterbrunnen Valley.
- Panorama Trail (Schilthorn–Allmendhubel): A gentler option with views of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Trekking in Valais (Zermatt & Matterhorn Region)
Valais is home to Zermatt, the Matterhorn, and endless glaciers.
5. Stellisee (Zermatt)
- Why go: Classic Matterhorn reflection shot.
- Details: 2–3 hours, easy, accessible by gondola to Fluhalp hut.
6. Five Lakes Trail (Zermatt)
- Why go: Visit five alpine lakes with Matterhorn views.
- Details: 3–4 hours, moderate.
- Highlight: Combines Stellisee, Grindjisee, Leisee, Moosjisee, Grünsee.
7. Hörnli Hut Trek (Matterhorn Base Camp)
- Why go: Legendary hut at the Matterhorn’s foot.
- Details: 6 hours, challenging.
- Highlight: Used by climbers preparing to summit the Matterhorn.
8. Gemmi Pass (Leukerbad)
- Why go: A historic pass with breathtaking views.
- Details: 4–5 hours, moderate.
- Highlight: End the trek in Leukerbad’s thermal spas.
Trekking in Graubünden (Engadine Valley & St. Moritz)
Graubünden is wild, less touristy, and full of hidden gems.
9. Lakes of Macun (Swiss National Park)
- Why go: A chain of sparkling blue lakes in the high Alps.
- Details: 5–6 hours, moderate.
- Access: Near Zernez and Scuol.
10. Val Roseg (Pontresina)
- Why go: Stunning valley near glaciers, with horse-drawn carriages.
- Details: 3–4 hours, easy to moderate.
- Highlight: Great for families and photography.
11. St. Moritz to Morteratsch Glacier Trail
- Why go: See one of Switzerland’s most accessible glaciers.
- Details: 2–3 hours, easy.
Other Famous Swiss Hikes
12. Seealpsee (Appenzell / Ebenalp)
- Why go: A fairytale lake below dramatic cliffs.
- Details: 2 hours, family-friendly.
13. Stoos Ridge Hike (Gratwanderung)
- Why go: Knife-edge ridge walk with jaw-dropping drops.
- Details: 4–5 hours, moderate.
14. Via Alpina (Multi-Day)
- Why go: Crosses Switzerland east to west.
- Details: 20+ stages, hut-to-hut trekking.
- Highlight: Connects iconic places like Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Engelberg.
Trekking Comparison Table
| Hike | Region | Duration | Difficulty | Highlight |
| Oeschinensee | Bernese Oberland | 2 hrs | Easy | Turquoise lake |
| Faulhornweg | Bernese Oberland | 7 hrs | Moderate | Ridge views |
| Bachalpsee | Grindelwald | 3 hrs | Easy | Reflections |
| Mürren Via Ferrata | Lauterbrunnen | 3 hrs | Hard | Cliffside trail |
| Stellisee | Zermatt | 3 hrs | Easy | Matterhorn reflection |
| Gemmi Pass | Valais | 5 hrs | Moderate | Ends at Leukerbad spa |
| Macun Lakes | Graubünden | 6 hrs | Moderate | Chain of lakes |
| Seealpsee | Appenzell | 2 hrs | Easy | Family lake hike |
| Stoos Ridge | Central Switzerland | 5 hrs | Moderate | Knife-edge ridge |
| Via Alpina | National | Multi-day | Hard | Crosses Switzerland |
Tips for Trekking Switzerland
- Gear: Sturdy boots, layers, hiking poles, and sun protection.
- Apps & Maps: Download Swisstopo or Komoot.
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for golden eagles, chamois, and alpine wildflowers.
- Budget Hack: Self-cater picnics; mountain restaurant meals are pricey.
- Wellness Combo: Pair hikes like Gemmi Pass with Leukerbad’s hot springs for recovery.
Conclusion:
Switzerland is a hiker’s paradise whether you want the iconic Matterhorn reflections at Stellisee, the family-friendly Bachalpsee, or the adrenaline of the Mürren Via Ferrata. The best part? Every trek is well-marked, easily accessible, and supported by world-class infrastructure, making it a top destination for anyone searching for the best trekking Switzerland has to offer.
Faqs about best trekking Switzerland
Q: What’s the best season for trekking in Switzerland?
June–September is prime. October offers autumn colors but some gondolas close.
Q: Do I need special passes?
Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass or regional passes (like Berner Oberland Pass) save money on gondolas and trains.
Q: Are hikes safe for kids?
Yes, lakes like Oeschinensee, Seealpsee, and Bachalpsee are perfect family hikes. Avoid exposed ridges like Stoos or Via Ferrata Mürren with children.
