The best walks and hikes around Rapperswil-Jona
4.7
(349)
3,625
hikers
146
hikes
Hiking trails around Rapperswil-Jona are characterized by their location on Lake Zurich and the Obersee, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. The terrain ranges from gentle lakeside paths to hilly areas, including parts of the Zurich Oberland. Key features include the shores of Lake Zurich, the Jona river, and surrounding hills that provide panoramic views.
Best hiking trails around Rapperswil-Jona
- The most popular hiking route is View over the Obersee – Mariazell Wurmsbach Abbey loop from Bollingen, a 6.2 miles (10.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 38 minutes to complete. This route offers views over the Obersee and passes by Mariazell Wurmsbach Abbey.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is View over the Obersee – Mariazell Wurmsbach Abbey loop from Rapperswil-Jona, a moderate 6.8 miles (10.9 km) path. This trail provides extensive views of the Obersee and follows lakeside sections.
- Local hikers also love the Hurden Chapel loop from Rapperswil SG, a 5.5 miles (8.9 km) trail leading through areas near the historic Wooden Bridge and Hurden Chapel, often completed in about 2 hours 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Rapperswil-Jona is defined by lakeside paths along Lake Zurich and the Obersee, historic landmarks like the Wooden Bridge, and varied hilly terrain. The network offers options for easy strolls to more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in Rapperswil-Jona are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore Rapperswil-Jona's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
4.3
(7)
93
hikers
4.96km
01:17
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(4)
23
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(3)
17
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(61)
671
hikers
8.92km
02:16
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
54
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The lake on both sides, the city and the castle make for a wonderful panorama. You also forget the very busy Seedammstrasse behind you.
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A busy but beautiful route across the dam, partly with a wide cycle path. Unfortunately, the section from Hurden to Pfäffikon on the gravel path is now closed to cyclists (until the first accident happens on the main road).
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Schloss Rapperswil The Schloss Rapperswil is the landmark of the picturesque city of roses on Lake Zurich. The castle, built in the early 13th century and later repeatedly redesigned, is visible from afar. It towers above the town on the Lindenhof, a ridge that runs through Rapperswil. The renovated castle delights with an atmospheric visitor tour and takes you on a fascinating journey through time, exploring the castle's history. A highlight for children is certainly the northern flank of the castle hill, as fallow deer have lived here since 1871, reminiscent of the legend of the city's founding. Just below the deer park, various play elements such as a climbing wall or a speaking tube also invite children to play and let off steam. The exhibition inside the castle can be visited. Additionally, the castle tower offers a breathtaking view over the city and the lake. Text / Source: Tourist Information, Visitor Center, Fischmarktplatz 1, Rapperswil https://www.rapperswil-zuerichsee.ch/de/besuchen/sehenswuerdigkeiten/schloss-rapperswil
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Wooden Bridge Seedamm-Weg / Route Pfäffikon SZ - Rapperswil SG "A monumental project at the turn of the millennium," inaugurated on April 6, 2001. The narrow passage between Lake Zurich and Lake Obersee has always been used by local residents to cross the water. Until the Middle Ages, this was done by ferry. After Rapperswil was sold to the House of Habsburg-Austria in 1354, Duke Rudolf IV, the Wise, decided to replace the ferry service with a wooden bridge. Completed in 1358, the structure was 1450 meters long and rested on 546 oak piles. It was 12 feet (approximately 4 meters) wide and designed for pedestrians, carts, and livestock. Toll revenues financed construction and maintenance, with the residents of Rapperswil, the monks of Einsiedeln Abbey, and some farmers from the Schwyz territories of Höfe and March being exempt from the bridge toll. The daring structure was also exposed to various dangers. For example, it was repeatedly damaged or even destroyed during wartime events, and natural forces such as waves and storms also took their toll. For this reason, the planks were not nailed to the bridge structure, and there was no railing. This meant that a storm could not tear down the entire bridge; only the loose planks were blown into the lake. Therefore, crossing the bridge was not a safe pleasure for everyone. In 1939/51, the dam was renovated, and the bridges were reinforced to handle the increasing car, truck, and train traffic. A stroll on the dam's sidewalk had long ceased to be enjoyable. Therefore, the idea of a new pedestrian bridge in the form of the old wooden bridge seemed appealing. The new wooden bridge was inaugurated on April 6, 2001. It is the longest wooden bridge in Switzerland (841 m). It rests on a total of 233 piles. Text / Source: City of Rapperswil-Jona, St. Gallerstrasse, Jona https://www.rapperswil-jona.ch/naherholungimfreien/6552
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Nice quiet place for a break :)
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so-called breakthrough on the dam
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Cool route with many impressions
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Relaxing view and pleasant glimpse of the city
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Rapperswil-Jona?
Rapperswil-Jona offers an extensive network of over 140 hiking trails. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from easy lakeside strolls to more challenging moderate hikes in the surrounding hills.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Rapperswil-Jona?
The terrain around Rapperswil-Jona is quite diverse. You'll find gentle, flat paths along the shores of Lake Zurich and the Obersee, as well as more undulating and hilly sections in the Zurich Oberland. Some trails, like those leading over the Etzel Pass, offer more elevation and panoramic views.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Rapperswil-Jona?
The hiking trails in Rapperswil-Jona are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the scenic lakeside paths, the historic landmarks, and the varied landscapes that make each route unique.
What is the best time of year for hiking in Rapperswil-Jona?
Rapperswil-Jona is beautiful throughout much of the year. From June to October, the town's famous rose gardens are in full bloom, adding a vibrant touch to lakeside walks. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and colorful scenery, while summer is ideal for combining hikes with lake activities. Winter can also be charming for crisp walks, especially along the lake.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Rapperswil-Jona?
Yes, Rapperswil-Jona has numerous family-friendly hiking options. With over 90 easy routes, you can find gentle paths suitable for all ages. Many lakeside trails, such as sections of the Wooden bridge to Fäschtinseli – View of Lake Zurich loop from Rapperswil, are relatively flat and offer engaging sights like the historic Wooden Bridge.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Rapperswil-Jona?
Many trails around Rapperswil-Jona are suitable for dogs, especially the lakeside paths and routes through natural areas. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, particularly in nature reserves like Wurmsbach and Busskirch, and to be mindful of local regulations and other hikers.
Are there circular hiking routes available in Rapperswil-Jona?
Yes, many of the hiking routes in Rapperswil-Jona are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular View over the Obersee – Mariazell Wurmsbach Abbey loop from Bollingen and the Hurden Chapel loop from Rapperswil SG, which offers a scenic walk near the Wooden Bridge.
Which hikes offer the best views of Lake Zurich or the Alps?
For stunning views, consider routes that ascend into the surrounding hills or along the Obersee. Trails leading over the Etzel Pass, for instance, provide fantastic panoramic vistas of Lake Zurich and the distant Alps. Rapperswil Castle itself, perched above the town, also offers spectacular views of the lake and mountains.
What historical landmarks or attractions can I see while hiking?
Rapperswil-Jona is rich in historical and cultural landmarks. You can walk across the historic Wooden Bridge (Holzbrücke Rapperswil-Hurden), explore the medieval Old Town, or visit Rapperswil Castle. The region also features religious sites like Mariazell Wurmsbach Abbey and the St. Meinrad Chapel near the Etzel Pass.
Are there any nature reserves or unique natural features to explore?
Absolutely. The Obersee-Uferweg, a path along the upper Lake Zurich, is known for its peaceful, remote trails and lush vegetation, passing through nature reserves like Wurmsbach and Busskirch where you can observe waterfowl. The region also boasts beautiful rose gardens in Rapperswil, especially vibrant from June to October.
How accessible are the hiking trails by public transport or car?
Rapperswil-Jona is well-connected. The town's central location makes many trailheads easily accessible by public transport, including train and bus services. For those driving, various parking options are available in and around Rapperswil-Jona, often near popular starting points for hikes.
Are there any less crowded hiking options for a more tranquil experience?
While popular routes can see more visitors, the extensive network of trails means you can often find quieter paths. The more remote sections of the Obersee-Uferweg, away from the immediate town center, are known for their peaceful atmosphere and idyllic countryside, offering a serene hiking experience.
Most popular routes around Rapperswil-Jona
Most popular attractions around Rapperswil-Jona
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