Switzerland is a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from towering glaciers to lush meadows, turquoise lakes, and jaw-dropping mountain ridgelines. After spending a considerable amount of time hiking in this beautiful country, it’s safe to say that it might be our favorite hiking destination ever. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone who enjoys a leisurely stroll with incredible views, Switzerland has something for everyone. With options ranging from mountain huts to convenient gondolas and trains that take you straight to the peaks, the hiking experience here is accessible and unforgettable.
If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, be sure to check out our comprehensive travel guide. It’s packed with accommodation options, budget tips, transportation advice, camping info, and a ton of activities. It’s an instant download, so you can start planning right away!
We’ve compiled this list of top hikes in Switzerland, although we must admit—it was impossible to rank them. Every hike is unique, stunning, and hard to compare. We encourage you to pick the hikes that suit your style and fitness level.
1. Stoos Ridge
The Stoos Ridge hike offers breathtaking views over Lake Lucerne and is an adventure for the entire family. To reach the top of this ridge, you’ll take the steepest funicular in the world—an experience in itself! Once you’re up, you can choose from a variety of hiking options, including taking a gondola or chairlift to get from point A to point B. The views from the ridge are incredible, especially when the clouds part, giving you a panoramic view of the lake below.
For those interested in a unique experience, there’s a small goat petting zoo on the way, which will definitely add to the fun. If you’d like, you can even stay overnight at the mountain restaurant, where the views over the lake are second to none.
2. Via Ferrata from Murren to Gimmelwald
For those who enjoy a challenge and a bit of adrenaline, the Via Ferrata from Murren to Gimmelwald is a must-do. This route is not for the faint of heart as it involves traversing narrow ridgelines and steep cliffs. You’re secured to the mountain with a harness and clips attached to cables anchored into the rock, which provides a sense of security despite the scary heights. The adrenaline rush is worth it, though.
This hike doesn’t require a tour guide, but it’s a good idea to have prior Via Ferrata experience. Gear can be rented in Murren for a reasonable price, and you’ll be well-prepared for the thrilling journey ahead. If you’re up for the challenge, this hike will provide you with one of the most exciting experiences Switzerland has to offer.
3. Gorner Glacier
The Gorner Glacier in Zermatt is a popular spot for hiking and offers one of the most dramatic glacier views in Switzerland. For those up for a 20-kilometer hike with a 1500-meter elevation gain, this is a great option. If you prefer something a bit easier, you can opt for the Gornergrat Bahn, a scenic train ride that takes you directly to a viewpoint overlooking the glacier. The train ride costs about 110 Swiss Francs, which might not be the most budget-friendly option, but it’s worth it for the stunning views.
Once you reach the top, a series of switchbacks lead you closer to the glacier. There’s also an option to loop around and explore other parts of the glacier, making for a well-rounded and unforgettable experience. This hike can be combined with other routes to customize the level of difficulty.
4. Muttseehutte
Muttseehutte offers one of the most unique hiking experiences in Switzerland. It’s a longer hike, around 11.4 kilometers, with 600 meters of elevation gain. The hike starts with a gondola ride, which takes you up to a tunnel that you’ll walk through for the first part of the hike. This offers some shelter if you’re hiking in chilly weather.
After exiting the tunnel, the hike steepens as you climb toward the Muttseehutte. The view is absolutely worth the effort, especially when you get to the top and can take in the majestic surroundings. For those interested in spending the night, the mountain hut offers private rooms with a cozy atmosphere. The price for staying is very reasonable, considering the incredible experience and the delicious meals served.
5. Schafler Ridge and Seealpsee
Schafler Ridge and Seealpsee are two separate hikes that are best combined to get the most out of the experience. There are plenty of gondola rides in Switzerland to help you gain elevation quickly, and this hike starts with a thrilling seven-minute gondola ride that takes you up over 1,000 meters. From there, you can enjoy a scenic hike along the ridge, staying overnight at the Schafler Hut.
The views from the hut are magnificent, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light casts beautiful colors on the peaks. After your stay, you can complete the loop down to Seealpsee, a stunning emerald-green lake nestled in a Swiss meadow. This hike covers 13.6 kilometers and offers about 585 meters of elevation gain, making it a moderately challenging but rewarding adventure.
6. Augstmatthorn
Augstmatthorn is one of the most well-known hikes in the Interlaken region, offering panoramic views of both lakes and the town of Interlaken. You can take a gondola up to the starting point, which helps save energy for the actual hike. The route is relatively short—about 5 kilometers—but it’s well worth the effort for the spectacular views at the top. Here is te full video you can watch all 9 hikes in Switzerland.
If you’re lucky, you might also spot some local wildlife, such as marmots or ibex, which are common in the area. The hike is ideal for those who want to experience Switzerland’s beauty without committing to a long or strenuous trek.
7. Aletsch Glacier
The Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, is a must-see for anyone visiting Switzerland. At 23 kilometers long, it’s a truly breathtaking sight. The hike along the side of the glacier offers stunning views, and you can opt to take a gondola to gain some elevation before heading out on your hike.
The hike itself is about 8 kilometers long, and the views along the way are nothing short of incredible. You can loop the hike for a complete experience or mix it up with other trails in the area. If you’re into glaciers, this one should be on your list of must-see destinations.
8. Oeschinensee Lake
Oeschinensee Lake is one of Switzerland’s most photographed and most visited destinations—and for good reason. The hike to the lake is absolutely gorgeous, with lush meadows, alpine forests, and majestic mountain views. The gondola ride up to the lake is well worth the investment, as it saves you the steep climb.
Once you reach the lake, you can enjoy activities like boating or swimming. The water is incredibly clear, and the surrounding scenery is out of this world. You can also take a hike around the lake or up the ridges for panoramic views. This is one of those hikes that will leave you feeling awe-struck.
9. Stellisee Lake
Topping our list is the hike to Stellisee Lake, with its perfect views of the Matterhorn. This is arguably the most iconic photo spot in Switzerland, and for good reason—it’s absolutely breathtaking. The hike is relatively short, but the views are nothing short of spectacular, especially during sunrise when the light paints the mountains in golden hues.
The best way to experience this hike is to stay overnight at the nearby hut. You’ll have prime access to Stellisee Lake at sunrise and sunset, and the photos you’ll take here will be memories you cherish forever. This hike, combined with a trip to the Gorner Glacier, offers the perfect way to experience the best of the Swiss Alps.
Final Thoughts
Switzerland is full of incredible hiking experiences, with breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and cozy mountain huts to make your trip even more memorable. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, these top hikes offer something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out our Switzerland travel guide for all the information you need to plan the perfect hiking adventure in this stunning country!