4.7
(572)
5,226
hikers
85
hikes
Hiking trails around Alpnach offer diverse experiences in the canton of Obwalden, Switzerland. The region is characterized by its alpine and lakeside scenery, situated at the foot of Mount Pilatus, which provides a dramatic backdrop with towering peaks and deep valleys. Lake Alpnach, a tributary of Lake Lucerne, adds to the natural charm with its surrounding paths. This area features a network of marked trails suitable for various experience levels, from challenging mountain ascents to more leisurely lakeside walks.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
4.9
(94)
711
hikers
3.78km
01:09
100m
110m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(7)
28
hikers
10.1km
03:55
310m
1,000m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Sign up for free
4.6
(51)
219
hikers
14.3km
04:03
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(65)
690
hikers
11.8km
06:16
1,120m
1,120m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(8)
76
hikers
12.8km
06:25
1,030m
1,030m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
very pretty here, very pretty
1
1
very pretty here, very pretty
0
1
very pretty here, very pretty
0
2
If you walk from Pilatus Kulm along the flower path, you will reach the Tomlishorn in about 30 minutes at a leisurely pace.
1
1
Brilliant ridge with a perfect view - I have never seen anything better!
1
0
You can't get enough of it here!
3
1
Brilliant views along the entire circular route!
2
0
For all those who come up by train and want to stretch their legs a bit....
3
0
Alpnach offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 85 trails recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
The terrain around Alpnach is incredibly diverse, characterized by alpine peaks, deep valleys, and serene lakeside paths. You'll find everything from well-maintained paths around Lake Alpnach to rugged, rocky trails on Mount Pilatus and Mittagsgüpfi, often requiring sure-footedness and alpine experience.
Yes, Alpnach has 17 easy routes suitable for families. While specific routes aren't detailed here, many paths around Lake Alpnach and lower sections of Mount Pilatus offer gentle gradients and scenic views. The region is known for its varied trails, including those perfect for a leisurely family outing.
Alpnach is rich in natural beauty. You can explore stunning summits like Pilatus Kulm Summit, Tomlishorn Summit, and Stanserhorn Summit, offering panoramic views. The region also features dramatic gorges such as Wolfsschlucht Gorge and Rotzloch Gorge Tunnel, adding unique geological interest to your hike.
Yes, Alpnach offers several circular routes. A popular option is the Alpnachersee – Grotto and footbridge loop from Rengg-Kapelle, a moderate 14.3 km trail that takes about 4 hours to complete, leading you through lakeside paths and forests.
The hiking trails in Alpnach are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 500 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from Mount Pilatus, the diverse landscapes ranging from alpine to lakeside, and the well-maintained network of trails suitable for various skill levels.
Yes, Alpnach is well-connected by public transport. Alpnachstad serves as a key hub, being the starting point for the world's steepest cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus, making high-altitude trails easily accessible. Many other trailheads are also reachable via local bus services, allowing you to explore the region without a car.
Absolutely. For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, routes like Pilatus - Matthorn - Fräkmünt - Ämsigen offer difficult alpine terrain with significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is the View of Lake Lucerne – Ämsigen Railway Station loop from Alpnachstad (Pilatus-Bahn), which includes over 1000 meters of ascent and descent.
The best season for hiking in Alpnach is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and most trails, especially those at higher altitudes, are free of snow. Lower-lying trails around Lake Alpnach can be enjoyed year-round, but alpine routes require careful planning outside of peak season due to snow and ice.
Many trails in Alpnach boast incredible viewpoints. The Pilatus Kulm zu Esel, Oberhaupt und Tomlishorn route, for instance, offers spectacular views across the entire Pilatus massif. The region's defining feature, Mount Pilatus, provides breathtaking panoramic vistas over Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps from its various summits.
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in Alpnach, but it's important to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserves, agricultural areas, and near livestock. Always be mindful of local regulations and ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn't disturb wildlife or other hikers.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.