Best lakes around Kerns, a municipality in the canton of Obwalden, Switzerland, offers a diverse natural landscape. This region is characterized by its alpine setting, featuring a mix of larger valley lakes and serene high-alpine mountain lakes. The area provides opportunities for various outdoor activities, including hiking and water sports. Its geographic location in Central Switzerland contributes to its scenic appeal.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
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It's good for your feet and legs😊
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very pretty here, very pretty
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The Trüebsee (standard language: Trübsee, e.g. official name of the bus stop/station) is a mountain lake on the Alp Ober Trüebsee at an altitude of 1763 m above sea level in Central Switzerland. It lies between the municipality of Engelberg and the Titlis mountain in the canton of Nidwalden, near the Jochpass (2207 m above sea level). The Ober Trüebsee-Jochpass region within the municipality of Wolfenschiessen is a developed alpine tourist area. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tr%C3%BCebsee
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Trübsee The Trübsee, also Trüebsee, is a mountain lake above Engelberg, located in the municipality of Wolfenschiessen in the canton of Nidwalden. It is situated at an altitude of 1764 meters above sea level between Schafberg and Bitzistock. The small lake lies on a high plateau in the Engelberg Valley between Engelberg and the Titlis or Joch Pass, respectively. It is fed by the Trübseebach stream, which originates from the Titlis Glacier, and flows into the Engelberger Aa via the Trübenbach stream. The maximum depth of the Trübsee is around nine meters. Text / Source: schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/truebsee/
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Very beautiful landscape and beautiful paths
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Beautifully situated mountain lake surrounded by a wonderful mountain panorama... either easily accessible from Melchsee-Frutt or via the more challenging 4-lake hike from Engelberg
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Several lakes in the Kerns area are ideal for families. Melchsee-Frutt offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Trübsee features a mountain flower path that's enjoyable for all ages. The Barefoot Trail at the Härzlisee provides a unique sensory experience with barbecue areas, and Lake Lungern is known for its clear, warm water perfect for swimming in summer.
Yes, the region offers excellent hiking. You can find various routes, from moderate to difficult, around the lakes. For example, there are mountain hikes around Melchsee-Frutt, including loops to Höfli or the Hochstollen Summit. The mountain flower path around Trübsee is also a popular choice for flower enthusiasts. You can explore more options in the Mountain Hikes around Kerns guide.
The lakes around Kerns offer various water activities. Lake Lungern is popular for swimming, fishing, and boating, with crystal-clear water that can reach 23°C in summer. Melchsee-Frutt is also known for fishing. Lake Sarnen, a larger lake in the region, is suitable for various water sports.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming, as lakes like Lake Lungern offer warm, clear water. The high-alpine lakes and areas like Melchsee-Frutt are popular for hiking and enjoying the mountain flora during warmer months. Some areas, like Melchsee-Frutt, also function as winter sports resorts.
Yes, the region boasts unique natural features. The Barefoot Trail at the Härzlisee offers a distinctive 'tickle path' experience. Around Trübsee, you'll find a mountain flower path, an 'Eldorado for flower lovers.' The high-alpine setting of lakes like Tannensee provides a liberating feeling amidst beautiful landscapes.
Yes, there are gravel biking routes that incorporate the scenic lake areas. For instance, you can find routes like the 'Kernwald Forest — Gravel Path – Wichelsee loop' or the 'Schwendi-Kaltbad – Wichelsee loop'. These routes offer a great way to explore the natural beauty of the region by bike. More details can be found in the Gravel biking around Kerns guide.
Lake Lungern is highly popular due to its super clear, quiet, and warm water, making it excellent for swimming. Its beautiful scenery allows visitors to walk completely around the lake, enjoying panoramic views. It's also a great spot for fishing and offers access to the Turren Bahn for mountain excursions.
Trübsee is a mountain lake located at an altitude of 1764 meters above Engelberg. It's particularly known for its mountain flower path, which is a delight for flower enthusiasts. The lake is nestled in a high plateau between Engelberg and the Titlis, offering stunning alpine views.
For a more tranquil experience, Tannensee is described as a true gem and is generally less touristy than other popular spots like Melchsee. It's a large reservoir set in a beautiful landscape, offering a liberating feeling in a Swiss mountain setting.
The Kerns area provides several running trails, some of which are near the lakes. You can find routes like the 'Tannalp Alpine Cheese Dairy – Tannensee loop' or the 'Melchsee Panorama Tower – Melchsee-Frutt loop'. These trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views for runners. Explore more options in the Running Trails around Kerns guide.
Melchsee-Frutt is a high plateau located at 1920 meters, offering a wide range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, skiing, and simply taking in the beautiful mountain views. A cable car provides comfortable transport down to Stöckalp, and the area is known for its natural landscape and unique flora.
While the guide focuses on natural beauty and activities, historical context from the region indicates that Lake Sarnen, the largest lake entirely within Obwalden, may have hosted settlements as far back as 1500-1100 BC, suggesting a long history of human interaction with these waters.


Still not found your perfect lake around Kerns? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.