Switzerland is known for many great things like the Swiss Alps, Swiss cheese and some of the best chocolate in the entire world. It is one of the best tourist destinations in the world, and there is no surprise as to why this is the case. Switzerland is a beautiful country to explore and learn about its vibrant and authentic culture.
One of the best activities to do when in Switzerland is to go on one of their amazing hiking trails. Switzerland has some of the best hiking trails in all of Europe so, it is a must-do activity. Let’s find out more about the top 5 hiking trails in Switzerland.
1. The 5 Lakes Walk
First up is the fabulous 5 Lakes Walk. This walk spans a whopping 10.9 km so it’s not for the faint-hearted or the unfit (me included). With an elevation gain of 508 m, this proves to be a bit of a challenging hike. This loop trail takes about 3 hours and 43 minutes to complete. It starts from Zermatt with the Sunneggabahn to Blauherd.
5 Lakes Walk is extremely popular for bird-watching, running and hikes. The best times to visit are from May to October so that you get the best possible views and experience. This is a dog-friendly trail, so it’s perfect to take your furry friend on a walk here. These are a few of the reasons why this is one of the top 5 hiking trails in Switzerland, and this trail is first on the list.
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2. Mount Rigi Panorama Trail
Next is the Mount Rigi Panorama Trail. This 7 km hike offers some of the most magnificent views while hiking. The trail starts at the top of Rigi Kulm, at the mountain’s train station line. Many shorter trails split off to the sides as you manoeuvre through this trail. It takes just over 2 hours to complete this hike.
You continue to follow the signs to Rigi Scheidegg and find an empty bench when you reach the Felsenweg area. This view is over the water and peaks into the distance. It’s stunning and is the perfect spot to grab lunch or a water break. You further enjoy the views where you feel as close to nature as possible. There is no surprise why this is one of the top 5 hiking trails in Switzerland.
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3. Bachalpsee
Next, we have the Bachalpsee trail. It spans approximately 6 km long and is considered moderately challenging. It takes about an hour and 50 minutes to complete if you’re an avid hiker. This is a great trail to hike, enjoy nature and spot some beautiful birds and flora.
This trail is an out-and-back type and has an elevation gain of 222 m. Even in the rain, the water droplets glisten off the leaves of the beautiful Swiss forest. Some of the highlights on this trail include the sharp peaks of the Wetterhorn and the Schreckhorn on the other side of the valley. There are huge meadows and many benches where you can take breaks at. Therefore, this is why this trail is one of the top 5 hiking trails in Switzerland.
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4. Lake Oeschinen Circular
Next on our list of top 5 hiking trails in Switzerland is the Lake Oeschinen Circular trail. As it says in the name, this is loop type trail that spans a length of 8.7 km. This trail has an elevation gain of 494 m. It is a moderately challenging hike and usually takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete. Thus the best time to visit this trail is from June to October.
This trail is extremely popular for fishing, bird-watching and meeting like-minded hikers. You get to see a waterfall, wildflowers and a river on this trail. It begins at the mountain station of the Oeschinensee gondola lift. Furthermore, it is regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the Alps. There’s no doubt that this is one of the top 5 hiking trails in Switzerland because the beauty is unmatched.
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5. Northface Trail Mürren
Last but not least, we have the Northface Trail Mürren. The length of this trail is 8.4 km. It is considered a moderately challenging trail with an elevation gain of 352 metres. This is a loop-type route. Thus on average, it takes about 2 hours and 42 minutes to complete. It is a beautiful site to behold as you make your way through this trail.
This is one of the best trails to take your dog for a walk, and he/she can even be off of their leash in some areas. It is a bit steep in the beginning but gets better as you move along. On this alpine path, you enjoy the view and have the opportunity to photograph the Bernese Alps. This is why it is regarded as one of the top 5 hiking trails in Switzerland.
Let’s Go on One of the Top 5 Hiking Trails in Switzerland
There are many beautiful hiking trails to try out when you’re in Switzerland. You get to experience the magic of the Swiss mountains and the beautiful forests. Furthermore, you get to spend time in nature and experience the magical European mountains and trails. It is a must-try activity when you’re in Switzerland. And if you’re moving through Europe looking to explore, visit one of Germany’s national parks while you’re there.
Psychology tip: spending time in nature further soothes the mind and body.
