The best walks and hikes in Zurich

The Zurich region offers an extensive network of trails, with over 6,300 hiking routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls around lakes to more challenging ascents in the pre-Alps, catering to all levels of experience.

The komoot community highly rates hiking in Zurich, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 16,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from serene lakeside paths to panoramic mountain views, and the excellent accessibility of trails via public transport.

Yes, Zurich has over 3,600 easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. A great option is the Türlersee Loop Trail, an easy 2.7-mile path offering a gentle walk around the tranquil Türlersee lake. Many lakeside paths, like those around Lake Zurich, are also suitable for a relaxing outing.

Circular routes are very popular in Zurich. You can explore the Pfäffikersee Circular Trail, a moderate 6.2-mile path around the scenic Pfäffikersee lake. Another option is the Circular hike to the Elefantenbach, a 4.5-mile trail through varied forest and stream landscapes.

For stunning panoramic views, the Uetliberg mountain is a must-visit. The View of Zurich – View from the Uetliberg loop from Zürich Triemli offers incredible vistas of the city, Lake Zurich, and the distant Alps. The Gratweg (Ridge Hike) from Uetliberg to Felsenegg also provides impressive scenery.

Absolutely. Many of Zurich's best hiking trails are easily accessible by public transport. Uetliberg, for example, is directly reachable by train, and numerous other trailheads around Lake Zurich, Greifensee, and in the pre-alpine regions are well-connected by bus and train services.

Yes, the Zurich region has several beautiful waterfalls to discover. You can find the Hutziker Tobel Waterfalls along the Hutziker Tobel Waterfalls – View of the Zurich Highlands loop from Turbenthal. Other notable waterfalls include the Sihlsprung and the Sagenraintobel Waterfalls.

While Uetliberg and the main lakes are popular, exploring areas like Pfannenstiel offers quieter trails through green countryside and small villages. For a more challenging and secluded experience, consider the Schnebelhorn Loop, which takes you to the highest point in the canton of Zurich with rewarding views.

Zurich offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is ideal for higher-altitude trails and lakeside walks. Winter offers charming snowshoeing and winter hiking options, especially on Uetliberg and around the frozen lakes.

Experienced hikers will find over 180 difficult routes in the Zurich region. The Greifensee Loop Trail is a challenging 13-mile route around the lake. For more significant ascents, the pre-alpine areas like the Zürich Oberland-Höhenweg or the View of the Zurich Highlands – Hörnli Ridge Trail loop from Hörnli offer more demanding terrain and elevation gains.

Zurich's hiking trails showcase a diverse range of landscapes. You'll encounter serene lake shores, lush forests, rolling hills with panoramic views, and river valleys like those of the Limmat and Sihl. The region also extends into green countryside with traditional farmhouses and offers access to the stunning pre-alpine and alpine landscapes further afield.