mountains to visit near zurich

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Closest Mountains To Visit From Zurich

• September 7, 2020 May 14, 2024

Last Updated on May 14, 2024 by Darla Uhl

Mountains offer stunning and majestic views that are unparalleled, opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing, diverse ecosystems such as animals, birds, and plants, peace and solitude, and many more. If you are based in Zurich, you might consider visiting the closest mountains to the city of Zurich. And there are many mountains near Zurich worth visiting. We have listed below twelve of the closest mountains to Zurich sorted by distance as well as the advantages of visiting these. The travel time from Zurich train station is also noted .

So while most Switzerland guides will readily point to visiting Jungfraujoch in Bernese Oberland or Matterhorn in Zermatt , these two majestic mountains aren’t exactly the closest to visit from Zurich. In fact, it will take you four hours or more to reach Matterhorn or Jungfraujoch from Zurich. Instead, why, not check out the mountains listed below?

These mountains near Zurich are easy to access due to trains and cable cars. Most of these mountains, though not as high as the ones in the Pennine Alps and the Bernese Alps, are reachable within an hour or two from Zurich.

Without much further ado, here are the mountains near Zurich:

1. Uetliberg (813 Meters)

Uetliberg is the closest mountain to Zurich and one of the four popular viewpoints near Zurich. It is accessible in 27 minutes with the S10 Train from Zurich Train Station. From the train, the walk to the peak (Kulm) and the viewing tower is just 56 meters going up. It provides a good view of Zurich city, the Alps in Glarus, and Central Switzerland. You can also hike 400 meters up from Triemli or Albisgüetli instead of taking the train.

There is a hotel and restaurant called Uto Kulm on the mountain.

Uetliberg can be reached 27 minutes by train from Zurich Main Train Station with the S10 train. It is only 4 kilometers from Zurich Train Station by car.

Why should you visit Uetliberg ?

The Üetliberg Train is the steepest normal standard gauge adhesion railway in Europe with a 7.9% gradient. It has been in operation since 1875 via Triemli and Uitikon-Waldegg. It is also really close to the Zurich city center and can be done in half a day.

If you would like to read more about Uetliberg , check out our article The Best Views in Zurich: A Guide to Uetliberg Mountain .

2. Felsenegg (804 Meters)

Felsenegg is one of the four popular viewpoints near Zurich reachable from Adliswil in Sihl Valley ( Sihltal ). One can reach it with the S4 train to Adliswil, 10 minutes to the cable car Luftseilbahn Adliswil-Felsenegg, and then 5 minutes in the cable car going to Felsenegg.

The view from the Felsenegg Restaurant is that of the city of Zurich and Lake Zurich. There is also a planet trail from Felsenegg going to Üetliberg which even young children can partake in.

Luftseilbahn Adliswil-Felsenegg can be reached 30 minutes by train from Zurich Main Train Station with S4 train. It takes 5 minutes with the cable car to go up to Felsenegg Mountain. It is 10 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station by car.

Why should you visit Felsenegg?

The sea of lights in the evening from the Zurich region is particularly awesome. Like Üetliberg, it is also really close to the city center.

The GetYourGuide website lets you book a guided tour in a comfortable bus, a ferry ride across Lake Zurich, and a cable car ride to Felsenegg . You can book it with this link – Zürich: 4-Hour City Tour by Ferry, Cable Car and Coach.

3. Zugerberg (1,039 Meters)

Zugerberg is a mountain in the Canton of Zug. It can be accessed from the city of Zug itself, by using the valley station of Schönegg. On the upper station at slightly below 1,000 meters, you can enjoy awesome views of the lakes Zug and Ägeri. There are hiking paths with beautiful flora and fauna, a sculpture path, and a playground called Schattwälldli. You can also grill here. In winter, it is a place for winter hikes, cross-country skiing, and sledding. It also has a small ski lift for children.

Zugerberg is 54 minutes away from Zurich by public transport. To reach it, take the train to Zug and from there the bus to Zug, Schönegg. You can then take the funicular that will lead you up to Zugerberg. It is 33 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station by car.

Why should you visit Zugerberg?

The mountain has 80 kilometers of hiking paths to explore. Furthermore, you can engage in biking or riding a segway. And if you still have energy after a long day on the mountain, you can simply head back down to the city of Zug and explore it. It is not huge but pretty to stroll in, plus there are restaurants along the lake where you can relax after a long day.

For more detailed information regarding Zugerberg , visit our article here: 8 Awesome Things To Do in Zugerberg, Switzerland .

4. Sattel-Hochstuckli Mostelberg (1,185 Meters)

The ride going up to Mostelberg is inside a rotating cable car in 4 various colors (one color for each season of the year). The area is located between Schwyz and the moor of Rothenthurm, northwest of the Mythen.

For children, there is a huge bouncy play area during summer, as well as a toboggan run. Skiing here is also possible for children and adults alike during winter.

Sattel-Hochstuckli is 1 hour 19 minutes away from Zurich by public transport. To reach it, take the train to Arth-Goldau and from there the bus to Sattel Gondelbahn. It is 46 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station by car.

Why should you visit Sattel-Hochstuckli?

There is a 374-meter-long Skywalk , the longest hanging footbridge in Europe , hanging over Laui Ravine 58 meters below.

5. Rigi Scheidegg (1,643 Meters) and Rigi Kulm (1,797 Meters)

The most visited viewpoint in Central Switzerland is Rigi – also aptly called the “Queen of the Mountains”. It is also a popular destination and can be reached from different sides – Vitznau, Arth Goldau, Weggis, Seebodenalp, and Brunnen.

There are other ways to go up to Rigi but these options will need more time. For example, there are steamboats that head to Vitznau . From Vitznau , you can either:

• a) take the train going via Rigi Kaltbad to Rigi Kulm or
• b) take the cable car to either Vitznauerstock or Gersauerstock and hike from there.

Rigi is set amidst three lakes – Lake Lucerne , Lake Zug, and Lake Lauerz. It has several peaks but the most dominant one is the highest – Rigi Kulm at 1,797 meters. Rigi Scheidegg (1,643 meters) and Hochflue (1,699 meters) are also well-known peaks.

The total travel time from Zurich Train Station to Rigi Scheidegg is less than 90 Minutes. To reach it, take the train to Arth Goldau and then take the cable car via Kräbel to Rigi Scheidegg . By car, it is 48 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station.

Why should you visit Rigi?

Aside from the gorgeous views of the lakes (13 lakes!) and surrounding mountains, there is also a well-known thermal bath called Rigi Kaltbad designed by the famed Mario Botta of Ticino.

Viator offers guided tours to the Rigi from Zurich. You can purchase tickets for summer ( Mount Rigi and Lucerne Summer Day Trip from Zurich ) and winter ( Mount Rigi Winter Day Trip from Zurich ) day trips by clicking the links above.

6. Hoch-Ybrig – Spirstock (1,771 Meters) and Sternen (1,856)

Hoch-Ybrig is a skiing and hiking area in Canton Schwyz . In summer, Hoch-Ybrig offers hiking and biking routes. With the Sternensauser , you can also do the zip line. You can also play and fish. In winter, it has 50 kilometers of slopes for winter sports.

Hoch-Ybrig is dominated by the mountain range Forstberg, Druesberg, and Twäriberg. From Roggenstock , you can sometimes observe marmots, deers, or chamois.

The train connection from Zurich Train Station going to Hoch-Ybrig Weglosen valley station takes 84 minutes one way. The cable car going up to Seebli takes 6 minutes. From Seebli, there are cable car connections to Spirstock and Sternen . With the car, it is 55 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station.

Why should you visit Hoch-Ybrig?

From Spirstock , you get a fantastic view of the Mythen and Lake Lucerne regions. It also has lots of activities on offer both during the winter and summer months.

Together with Unteriberg and Oberiberg, Hoch-Ybrig builds the Ybrig region . This region has 170 kilometers of marked hiking and mountain paths. In winter, it has 50 kilometers of downhill slopes and 30 kilometers of cross-country skiing slopes.

7. Pilatus (2,073 Meters)

Pilatus is a well-known excursion and viewpoint near Lucerne. It is not as near to reach if you are based in Zurich but it is still possible to visit it for a day trip.

The train connection from Zurich Train Station going to Kriens Pilatus-Bahnen Valley Station takes 77 minutes one way. The train going up from Kriens, Lucerne to Pilatus Kulm takes an additional 41 minutes. With the car, it is 55 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station.

Why should you visit Pilatus?

The genius Eduard Locher envisioned a futuristic train on Pilatus at the end of the 19th century. Pilatus has the steepest cogwheel railway in the world. It has a maximum gradient of 48% and an average gradient of 35%. The train links Alpnachstad in Obwalden to Pilatus Kulm at 2,073 Meters.

The golden round trip is also a popular choice for tourists. It combines a ride on the steamboat, the red cogwheel railway, and going down with the cable car. On the mountain station of Pilatus, there is a short, secure way to enjoy the panorama. It lies between the peaks of Esel and Oberhaupt.

GetYourGuide has a multilingual tour from Zurich to Pilatus you can book here – From Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus Day Tour.

On this GetYourGuide tour, you’ll leave Zurich in the morning and stop in Lucerne at the Lion Monument before heading to Kriens. You can take the gondola to the top of Mount Pilatus in Kriens for an awesome view of the surrounding lakes and mountains. After that, you’ll take the funicular down to Alpnachstad, then take the boat back to Lucerne. Then you can take a bus back to Zurich. 

8. Braunwald Gumen (1,901 Meters)

The car-free village of Braunwald has beautiful views of the Glarus mountains – Hausstock, Bifertenstock, Tödi, and Ortsstock.

Adventurous visitors can take the scooter descent (Trottinett) to Braunwald . Families with young children can enjoy a dwarf-themed trail, and various animals or check into a well-known family-friendly hotel called Märchenhotel Braunwald .

There is a direct train from Zurich Train Station going to Linhtal Braunwaldbahn . It takes 90 minutes one way to the valley station. The cable car going up to Braunwald takes 7 minutes. With the car, it is 86 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station.

Why should you visit Braunwald?

Visitors to Braunwald will enjoy not only the gorgeous views of the Glarus mountains. Braunwald also has numerous waterfalls (Schreyenbachfall, Berglistüber, Diesbachfall, Brummbachfall), lakes (Oberblegisee, Bergetensee, Muttsee), and a rose garden .

For more detailed information about visiting Braunwald , check out our posts here:

• Visiting Braunwald in the Summer
• Winter Hiking and Biking in Braunwald

9. Pizol Laufböden (2,226 Meters) and Pizolhütte (2,227 Meters)

Two cable cars go from Wangs in Sargans up to the mountains. Once above, we can see from a fantastic view of the Rhein valley until Lake Constance. The chair lifts can go as high as Pizol-Bergkamm.

The main peak Pizol (2,844 Meters) lies amidst Calfeisen/Tamina Valley, Weisstannen Valley, and Rhein Valley.

Wangs , Pizolbahn is 1 hour 9 minutes away from Zurich by public transport. To reach it, take the train to Sargans and from there the bus to Wangs, Pizolbahn. It is 93 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station by car.

Why should you visit Pizol?

There is a popular hike called the 5-lake hike which goes around five different colored lakes. The most beautiful lake here is called Lake Schotten . Over Schwarzplangg is a fantastic view of the UNESCO World Heritage site the Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona , together with the Pizol glacier, Ringelspitz, and Piz Sardona amidst a backdrop of further Glarus Alps.

10. Flumserberg Maschgenkamm (2,010 Meters) and Prodkamm (1,939 Meters)

Flumserberg, part of the municipality of Flums, is a great day trip option because it offers views of the Churfirsten range and Lake Walen ( Walensee ). There are numerous hiking and biking trails available in the resort.

There are two options for going to Flumserberg :

• The first option is to take the train to Unterterzen . From Unterterzen, take the cable car to Tannenbodenalp then the cable car to Maschgenkamm .
• The second option is to take the train to Sargans . From Sargans, you may take the bus going to Tannenheim, Post (Prodkamm), or Kabinenbahn (Maschgenkamm).

The train ride from Zurich to either Unterterzen or Sargans takes around 1 hour . It takes an additional 30 to 40 minutes to get to Tannenheim or Kabinenbahn . With a car, it is 93 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station.

Why should you visit Flumserberg?

Flumserberg has lots of options for children to enjoy: playgrounds, a climbing station in Prodalp with more than 100 climbing stations laid out on 3 levels, mini-golf, and a toboggan run over 250 meters long.

11. Säntis (2,501 Meters)

When exploring the mountains near Zurich, a visit to Säntis is a must. Located in the Appenzell region, this mountain stands tall at 2,501 meters above sea level and is the ultimate highlight of the area. The reason is simple: the breathtaking views that unfold before your eyes when you reach the summit. With such magnificent panoramas awaiting you, a trip to Säntis is undoubtedly worth every moment and all the effort you put in.

Cable cars run every 30 minutes. The timings of going up the mountain will be sped up if there are a lot of guests. During the summertime (July and August), sunrise rides are held every Sunday. Those with a GA card and Half-fare card have discounts.

If you would like to read more about the wonderful Appenzell region, check out this article 12 Best Things To Do in Appenzell Region, Switzerland .

The train connection from Zurich Train Station going to Schäwgalp takes 2 hours one way. To reach it, take the train to Gossau SG . In Gossau SG, change to the connecting train to Urnäsch . After, you can ride the bus from Urnäsch to Schwägalp, Santis-Schwebebahn . The valley station of Säntis is 94 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station by car.

Why should you visit Säntis?

Säntis is the highest mountain in the Alpstein massif of the Appenzell Alps.

The summit of Säntis is one of the most prominent in the Alps. Whenever visibility is good, you have a chance to see  six other countries   surrounding Säntis . In addition to Switzerland, you can see Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, France, and Italy.

12. Malans – Älpli (1,801 Meters)

Älpli in Malans is not a well-known tourist destination. It doesn’t have any fancy restaurants, themed trails, zip lines, or bouncy castles. Instead, it offers a breathtaking view, warm hospitality, and home-style food. It offers peace and quiet.

The locals operate the cable car. It is maintained by volunteers and various cooperatives as a non-profit organization. Its valley station is beside the vineyard of Malans. Please note that it only operates in summer and reservations with Älplibahn ( Phone Number: +41 81 322 47 64 ) are necessary.

The train connection from Zurich Train Station going to Malans, Älplibahn via Landquart takes 79 minutes one way. The cable car going up to Älpli takes 14 minutes. It also needs to be reserved by calling +41 81 322 47 64 . Note: The cable cars only operate in summer. Malans is 107 kilometers away from Zurich Train Station by car.

Why should you visit Malans Älpli?

Älpli in Malans is an authentic experience in the Alps. It offers peace and quiet, as well as majestic views of the Grisons Rhine Valley . While hiking here, you can see the Grisons Alps – Silvretta, Piz Kesch, and Piz Terri. When the skies are clear, you can even see Bernina Massif 70 kilometers away.

With a length of 3.5 kilometers , the Älplibahn is also one of the longest in Switzerland .

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Summary: Closest Mountains to Zurich

Here is a summary of the closest mountains to Zurich and how far away these are (in kilometers, approximate).

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Darla Uhl is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country. Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

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Mountains Near Zurich: A Guide to the Best Peaks and Trails Near the City

If you’re staying in Zurich and eager to escape the city to explore the mountains, this comprehensive guide is perfect for you, as it covers everything you need to know about the mountains near Zurich! 

We’ve compiled a list of eleven mountains closest to Zurich, organized by proximity, along with the benefits of visiting each one. We’ve also included the travel time from Zurich’s main train station. Thanks to the trains and cable cars, these mountains near Zurich are easily accessible. Although not as towering as those in the Bernese Alps, most of these peaks can be reached within an hour or two from Zurich.

You might also like the following article:

Things To Do In Zurich, Switzerland

Uetliberg (813 meters)

Uetliberg , the mountain nearest to Zurich, is also called the house mountain. Its summit, known as the Uto Kulm, stands at a height of 871 meters above sea level.

Uetliberg is easily reached by a brief train journey from the city center. In just about 20 minutes, you can ascend to the summit from downtown Zurich, or even opt for a hike to Uetliberg from the city itself.

This mountain serves as a popular getaway for locals and tourists alike, particularly for those seeking a respite from the bustling city crowds. 

In addition to the beautiful panoramic views available from the summit of the Uetliberg, there is also an option to climb a lookout tower for an even more breathtaking view of the city of Zurich and the surrounding area. From the top of the tower, you can see the entire city of Zurich, as well as the stunning mountains and the Alps in the distance. Even on cloudy days, the views from the tower are amazing, offering a unique perspective on the city and its surroundings. 

For travelers wishing to savor local cuisine while taking in the views, there is a restaurant situated at the peak. Additionally, a web of hiking trails is available for exploration, allowing you to spend hours immersed in the splendid Swiss natural landscape just a stone’s throw away from Zurich’s center.

Felsenegg (804 meters)

Located just 30 minutes south of Zurich, Felsenegg can be reached with the S4 train to Adliswil, 10 minutes to the aerial cableway Adliswil-Felsenegg, and then 5 minutes by cableway to Felsenegg.

Though Felsenegg is more of a scenic lookout than a full-fledged mountain summit, standing at only 809 meters above sea level, its expansive meadows and myriad hiking trails continue to draw outdoor enthusiasts from Zurich looking to explore Switzerland’s breathtaking natural landscapes. The planet trail from Felsenegg to Üetliberg is also suitable for children.

The cozy Felsenegg restaurant, situated near the top station, offers authentic Swiss cuisine in a warm atmosphere. If you visit Felsenegg during the summer, try to secure a terrace table by calling ahead and making a reservation. The terrace boasts captivating panoramic views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding towns – a definite highlight of any day trip to Felsenegg.

Zugerberg (1’039 meters)

Zug’s emblematic local mountain is roughly 40 kilometers from Zurich and is well worth a visit no matter what the season. It is conveniently accessible by taking a train from Zurich to Zug, which you reach in approximately 25 minutes and then ride the funicular from the valley station Schönegg to Zugerberg’s summit.

From the summit at 925 meters, multiple observation decks and viewpoints offer stunning panoramic vistas of Lake Zug and the majestic view stretches to the foothills of the Alps.. Travelers can also delve into an extensive network of hiking trails. Approximately 80 kilometers of marked hiking trails guide you through protected high moorland, showcasing a diverse array of flora and fauna. Attractions such as the sculpture trail, the Schattwäldli adventure playground, and numerous BBQ sites are sure to appeal to the whole family. Scooters are also available for hire at the mountain station.

For those who prefer to enjoy the scenery with a beverage in hand, the mountaintop restaurant provides an opportunity to savor the finest Swiss cuisine amidst a picturesque rural backdrop.

Sattel-Hochstuckli Mostelberg (1’185 meters)

Sattel-Hochstuckli, is easily accessible by both car and public transportation, making it an ideal destination for a quick day trip. By public transport, Sattel-Hochstuckli is 1 hour and 19 minutes from Zurich. To get there, take the train to Arth-Goldau and then the bus to Sattel Gondola. The ride up to Mostelberg is then inside a rotating cable car.

This family-friendly mountain offers gentle ski slopes and fantastic sledding opportunities.

At 1,600 meters above sea level, Hochstuckli is the highest peak of the mountain. Hochstuckli is a favorite spot for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding, providing entertainment for the whole family.

The area remains popular during summer months, as the snow-covered slopes transform into thrilling hiking trails. A 374-meter-long skywalk hangs over the Laui Gorge 58 meters below, and is the longest suspended pedestrian bridge in Europe.

Rigi (1’797)

Rigi, often referred to as the “Queen of the Mountains,” is the most frequented viewpoint in Central Switzerland. As a popular destination, it can be accessed from various locations, including Vitznau, Arth Goldau, Weggis, Seebodenalp, and Brunnen.

This mountain also houses Europe’s oldest mountain railway, the Rigi Railway, which provides convenient access to the Rigi Kulm hotel at the summit, a long-standing favorite among outdoor enthusiasts in the region.

Rigi is nestled among three lakes – Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and Lake Lauerz – and boasts several peaks. The most prominent of these is the highest peak, Rigi Kulm, at 1,797 meters. Other well-known peaks include Rigi Scheidegg (1,643 meters) and Hochflue (1,699 meters). In addition to the stunning views of the lakes (13 in total!) and surrounding mountains, Rigi is also home to the renowned thermal bath, Rigi Kaltbad, designed by the acclaimed architect Mario Botta from Ticino.

Mount Rigi is a popular destination during both winter and summer months. When the weather is cold, it serves as an excellent location for various winter sports and activities, while during warmer months, it becomes a fantastic haven for hikers and explorers.

Hoch-Ybrig – Spirstock (1’771 meters)

Located approximately 55 kilometers from Zurich, Hoch-Ybrig is a mountain peak reachable in under an hour by car. However, using public transportation takes nearly twice as long, involving two train rides and two bus transfers.

Hoch-Ybrig is a highly popular ski area, primarily because it stays open longer than most other resorts. During the record-breaking winter season of 1974/75, the slopes remained open for six months, from October to April! If you’re seeking a skiing experience near Zurich when conditions are less than ideal, Hoch-Ybrig is an excellent choice.

Spirstock, one of Hoch-Ybrig’s peaks, can be easily accessed via a cable car ride from Seebli. Ski slopes extend from the summit down to Seebli, and it’s worth mentioning that a restaurant is also available at the peak. In conclusion, for those in search of exceptional ski resorts within the Zurich region, Hoch-Ybrig remains one of the top and most accessible options.

Pilatus (2’073 meters)

Located less than an hour from Zurich by car, Mount Pilatus is an ideal destination for a day trip from Zurich to central Switzerland. The mountain range overlooks Lake Lucerne and the city of Lucerne, offering breathtaking panoramic views from its peaks.

The Golden Round Trip is also one of the most popular choices for tourists. It is a combination of steamboat ride, the red cogwheel train ride up and cable car ride down.

The highest peak of the range is Tomlishorn, but it is only one of many peaks that make up Mount Pilatus. The mountain is especially popular among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts during the summer season, thanks to the array of exciting and adventurous activities it offers. Hiking, mountain climbing, and toboggan runs are among the most popular pursuits on Mount Pilatus. Numerous scenic viewpoints and observation decks reward hikers with some of the most spectacular views in the region.

It’s worth mentioning that Mount Pilatus also hosts a selection of excellent hotels and restaurants, perfect for travelers who wish to relax and unwind in the mountains while still enjoying the comforts of their accommodations.

Braunwald Gumen (1’901 meters)

The car-free village of Braunwald located approximately an hour and a half from Zurich, is easily accessible by both car and train, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from the city. During winter months, the resort’s outstanding ski slopes attract numerous skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

As the warmer weather arrives and the snow recedes, the ski slopes transform into enjoyable hiking trails. It’s possible to ascend most of the area’s mountain summits, taking in stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Gumen is one of the resort’s peaks, easily reached by cable cars and ski lifts. As the tallest peak offering skiing opportunities, its two slopes provide remarkable scenic vistas of the surrounding area.

Pizol (2’226 meters)

Pizolhütte – Laufboden is a scenic mountain trail located on the Pizol high plateau. This hike offers breathtaking views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Tectonic Arena Sardona, and it’s an extraordinary place that must be experienced in person. The destination is particularly popular among hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts and is easily accessible via public transportation from Zurich.

Though it’s roughly a two-hour journey from Zurich by car or train, making it not the most convenient day trip from the city, the experience is absolutely worth it. Besides the stunning views of one of Switzerland’s most remarkable natural landmarks, the area is also famed for its enchanting five lakes trail.

During winter, the trails are blanketed in snow, becoming popular skiing and snowboarding destinations. Twelve lifts transport skiers to the area’s highest peaks, allowing them to explore 50 kilometers of ski slopes.

Flumserberg (2’010 meters)

Located approximately an hour and a half from Zurich, Flumserberg is a mountain renowned for its exceptional ski resorts. Featuring numerous cable cars and ski slopes, it is a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts in Switzerland.

The ski resort can be easily accessed by car and public transport, although traveling by car is faster. From Zurich, you can take a train to Sargans, followed by a bus to the Tannenboden gondola lift station. Here, you can ride the cable car to the mountain’s summit.

Overlooking Lake Walen, the mountain peak offers breathtaking panoramic views. Notably, various restaurants can be found near each cable car station, providing skiers with ample dining and resting options. The resort boasts 65 kilometers of ski slopes, with difficulty levels ranging from beginner-friendly to challenging for highly experienced and confident skiers.

Titlis Engelberg

Titlis-Engelberg is a popular ski resort area in central Switzerland, approximately an hour and a half from Zurich by car. While the area attracts visitors for both summer and winter adventures, it is particularly well-known among skiers and snowboarders during the winter months.

Mount Titlis, with its numerous glaciers and thrilling cliff walks, is just a short distance from the ski resort. Guided glacier tours are a popular activity in the area, especially for mountaineers seeking to experience Switzerland’s extraordinary natural beauty.

Cable cars operate from the town of Engelberg to the surrounding mountain peaks throughout both summer and winter seasons. Although the area is renowned for its exceptional ski slopes in the winter, an extensive network of hiking trails draws visitors during warmer months.

Hikers can explore waterfalls and alpine lakes while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views from this remarkable summit in the Uri Alps. On a clear day, you may even spot the peaks of the Bernese Alps in the distance, serving as a reminder that the Bernese Oberland should be your next Swiss destination!

Mountains Near Zurich FAQ

Are there mountains near zurich, switzerland.

Surrounded by small mountains on both its western and eastern sides, Zurich boasts Uetliberg as its home mountain to the west and Zuriberg to the east. Numerous other mountains can be found within an hour’s reach from Zurich, with many offering skiing opportunities. 

What mountain range is near Zurich?

The closest mountain range to Zurich is the Albis chain, which features Uetliberg as a prominent part of its landscape. Running along the western side of Lake Zurich, these mountains are easily visible from the city center.

Final Thoughts: Mountains around Zurich

Zurich is an excellent starting point for exploring the diverse mountains and picturesque landscapes Switzerland has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape from the city or an extended adventure, there are numerous options within easy reach.

Day Trips from Zurich

Some of the notable mountains and areas to explore near Zurich include:

• Uetliberg – The closest mountain to Zurich, offering panoramic city and lake views.
• Felsenegg – A vantage point south of Zurich with hiking trails and a restaurant.
• Zugerberg – A mountain near Zug with observation decks and a mountaintop restaurant.
• Sattel-Hochstuckli – A family-friendly ski resort with hiking trails during summer.
• Rigi – Known as the “Queen of the Mountains,” Rigi offers stunning views and a variety of activities.
• Braunwald – A ski resort that transforms into a hiking paradise during summer.
• Pizolhütte – Laufboden – A panoramic trail with views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tectonic Arena Sardona.
• Flumserberg – A ski resort with 65 kilometers of pistes catering to different skill levels.
• Titlis – Engelberg – A popular ski resort area in central Switzerland with activities for both summer and winter seasons.

Keep in mind that the mountain ranges near Zurich, such as the Albis chain, provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Don’t forget to take advantage of the Swiss public transportation system to access many of these destinations easily.

After moving here for studies, I fell deeply in love with this country. Through my articles and photography, I aim to share unique insights and authentic experiences, capturing the beauty of Switzerland from an expat perspective. Let's discover together the diverse and charming aspects of Swiss life.

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15 Most Spectacular Hikes near Zurich

• Zürich Region
• Last Updated: 12 Jul 2022
• By Tanya, Founder of Swiss Family Fun

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You don’t have to travel far from Zurich for spectacular views. Instead of traveling 3+ hours to Zermatt or the Jungfrau Region, you can reach many amazing hikes in about 90 mins from Zürich. 

Below are our favorite hikes near Zürich with the best views, sure to impress your house guests or Insta followers. I’ve sorted the hikes by travel time by car. If you are traveling by train, see Best day hikes by train from Zürich .

1. Hoch Ybrig Panorama trail

2. pizol 5 lake trail, 3. flumserberg 7 peak tour, 4. chli aubrig peak hike, 5. braunwald to oberblegisee lake, 6. saxer lücke, 7. chäserrugg panorama trail, 8. ebenalp seealpsee, 9. mettmenalp kärpfbrugg, 10. grosser mythen peak hike, 11. rigi panorama trail, 12. stoos ridge trail, 13. pilatus tomlishorn cliff walk, 14. niederbauen kulm peak hike, 15. walenpfad panorama trail.

Hoch Ybrig is the closest mountain resort near Zurich. After a lovely drive through the countryside, you ride a cable car and chair lift up to the ridge, with views of Lake Lucerne and many mountains. The trail starts here, a wide dirt path traversing the ridge. It’s an easy and safe trail, mostly downhill.

• Difficulty easy
• Duration 2 h
• Distance 6,3 km
• Ascent ⬆️ 60 m
• Descent ⬇️ 420 m
• Highest point 1820 m

My detailed post has shorter and longer versions of the trail, even an option for strollers. A few restaurants along the way so you don’t have to carry your lunch. There is also a small lake, popular for fishing, with a nice picnic area with fire pits.

See details for Hoch Ybrig ridge trail

This spectacular hike visits five beautiful alpine lakes scattered along an impressive landscape shaped by glaciers. This popular trail is no secret; you definitely won’t be alone on the trail, no matter when you go. But it’s still one of our very favorite trails in Switzerland that we hike almost every summer. 

• Difficulty challenging
• Duration 4h30
• Distance 10 km
• Ascent ⬆️ 430 m
• Descent ⬇️ 760 m

Although the trail is not extremely long or particularly dangerous, it does require endurance and steady footing to manage the rocky terrain. Best for experienced hikers with good fitness and hiking shoes with good tread.

Pizol is an easy day trip from Zurich, with the gondola quite near a freeway exit and train station. Make sure to start early and note the closing times of the lifts, usually 16:30, which is earlier than you might expect on long summer days.

From Zürich: 1hr by car / 1hr10 by train & bus

See details for Pizol 5 Lake hike

The most impressive hike at Flumserberg is the 7 Peak Tour, which, as the name suggests, visits seven peaks over a long tough hike. After riding a gondola up the mountain, you climb and down a series of peaks in the backcountry. 

• Difficulty hard
• Duration 5h20
• Distance 13.5 km
• Ascent ⬆️ 510 m
• Descent ⬇️ 880 m
• Highest point 2255 m

Eventually you loop around and down the mountain, visiting a pretty alpine lake and mountain restaurant. Then you can hike the rest of the way or ride an alpine coaster instead, our preferred method.

If you are motivated and have all day, visiting all seven peaks is definitely worth the effort. But my detailed post has shorter and easier versions, visiting only four of the peaks but just as beautiful.

From Zürich: 1hr15 by car, 1hr30 by train

See details for  Flumserberg 7 Peak Hike

This beautiful mountain trail is close to Zürich, climbing through fields and forest to the Chli Aubrig peak. From the peak, you can enjoy panorama views across rolling hills, a lake and many mountain peaks. 

• Difficulty medium
• Duration 3h
• Distance 9.5 km
• Ascent ⬆️ 400 m
• Descent ⬇️ 400 m
• Highest point 1600 m

Since you can drive to the trail head, it’s a great choice for spring when most gondolas are closed. We like to go in mid May, when the snow has melted and the wildflowers start to bloom.

From Zürich: 40 mins by car, not possible by public transport

See details for  Chli Aubrig Hike

Ride a funicular train up to a car-free village, then a gondola to the trail. Start by traversing the mountain, dipping in and out of forests, to reach a remote alpine lake. 

• Distance 9 km
• Ascent ⬆️ 90 m
• Descent ⬇️ 546 m
• Highest point 1540 m

Since the trail is mostly downhill, it’s relatively easy. But you’ll need shoes with good tread to manage the rocky path.

From Zürich: 1hr10 by car, 1hr30 by train

See details for Braunwald Oberblegisee trail

A cable car makes the spectacular Saxer Lücke viewpoint in the Appenzell region accessible to casual hikers and families. It’s a moderate 3 km mountain trail each way on a rocky trail. 

• Duration 2.5h
• Distance 6 km
• Ascent ⬆️ 240 m
• Descent ⬇️ 240 m
• Highest point 1822 m

The viewpoint shown here is a great place for a picnic. Or you can hike a bit further down to the beautiful Fälensee for a hearty lunch of Rösti at the mountain hotel.

The trail has stairs and some steep slopes to the side. So better for those with a head for heights and steady footing.

From Zürich: 1hr15 by car, 2hr40 by train/bus

See details for Saxer Lücke trail

Short and easy panorama path on a high plateau covered with wildflowers in Eastern Switzerland. You start the day by riding a funicular train, then cable car up up to the cliffs, where you’ll find a restaurant and the start of the trail.

• Duration 1 h
• Distance 3 km
• Ascent ⬆️ 80 m
• Descent ⬇️ 80 m
• Highest point 2220 m

The trail is not difficult, more of a stroll. There are cliffs on the sides and no barriers, so you need to be careful with children. 

From Zürich: 1hr20 by car, 2hr by train/bus

See details for Chäserrugg panorama trail

This gorgeous lake is a popular destination. But it’s a little harder to get to than you might expect, given all the buzz and plentiful social media pics. 

• Duration 2h
• Distance 5.7 km round trip
• Ascent ⬆️ 270 m
• Descent ⬇️ 270 m

Experienced hikers can get here with the mountain trail from the Ebenenalp cable car. However, there have been many deaths on this trail (five in summer 2022). So we highly recommend hiking here using the service road instead, much safer!

At the lake, you can lunch at one of the lakeside restaurants, sampling the local trout. Or walk around the lakeshore to find a perfect picnic spot. You can even rent a row boat and enjoy the views from the water. 

From Zürich: 1hr30 by car, 2hr10 by train

See details for Seealpsee hike  

Starting at a beautiful alpine lake, this mountain trail loops through Europe’s oldest wildlife reserve. Among many charms, the big highlight is the dramatic natural land bridge over a raging river shown in the picture above.

• Duration 2h30
• Distance 7.1 km round trip
• Highest point 1960 m

If you are feeling extra motivated, I highly recommend the longer loop up to the Legler mountain hut.

From Zürich: 1hr30 by car, 1hr40 by train/bus

See details for  Mettmenalp Kärpfbrugg Loop Hike

This impressive peak is an icon of central Switzerland, so it’s very satisfying to reach the top and do a little victory dance. 

• Distance 3.5 km round trip
• Ascent ⬆️ 410 m
• Descent ⬇️ 410 m
• Highest point 1800 m

It’s a short but demanding mountain trail, with steep rocky switchbacks gaining about 400 m of elevation over 2km. Better for those with hiking experience who are not afraid of heights.

From Zürich: 45 mins by car / 1hr 15 by train/bus.

See details for  Grosser Mythen Peak Hike

Easy mountain trail with panorama views, with an optional cliff walk. 

• Distance 8.2 km one way
• Ascent ⬆️ 230 m
• Descent ⬇️ 320 m

It’s wide gravel path even possible with strollers.

From Zürich: 40 mins by car, 55 mins by train

See details for Rigi panorama trail

Ride the steepest funicular in the world up to this gorgeous ridge hike near Lucerne. 

• Distance4 .4 km round trip
• Ascent ⬆️ 300 m
• Descent ⬇️ 300 m
• Highest point 1900 m

It’s a popular trail, so you can avoid the biggest crowds by going on a weekday. It does have some steep drop-offs so better for those who are not afraid of heights.

From Zürich: 45 mins by car, 1hr20 by train/bus

See details for  Stoos Ridgeline Trail

It’s fun just getting to Mt Pilatus, either with a cable car or steep cogwheel train and possibly a boat if you do the Golden Round Trip. From the Pilatus panorama terrace, you hike on a stone path cut into the cliffs up to the Tomlishorn peak. 

• Duration 1h
• Distance 3 km round trip
• Ascent ⬆️ 150 m
• Descent ⬇️ 150 m
• Highest point 2055 m

See details for Pilatus Tomlishorn hike

Short hike to mountain peak overlooking Lake Lucerne. Then hike down along a beautiful ridge with mountain views.

• Distance 5.3 km round trip

From Zürich: 1hr by car, 2 hrs by train/bus

See details for  Niederbauen Kulm Hike

Starting at the beautiful Bannalpsee lake, this alpine trail winds its way around many dramatic mountain peaks towards Engelberg. It ends at the Brunni Tickle Trail, where kids are rewarded with a barefoot path, playground, trampoline and toboggan run.

• Duration 4h
• Ascent ⬆️ 500 m
• Descent ⬇️ 350 m
• Highest point 1920 m

From Zürich: 1hr20 by car, 1hr45 by train/bus

See details for Walenpfad trail

If you want even more, there are many other amazing hikes near Zürich. Try our Advanced Search or Browse Hike Categories .

• TAGS: Zürich Hikes

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6 Responses

Good afternoon

One quick question? do you have to take the cable car up the mountain.. can we just hike it up..

At most mountains, you can usually hike up with the cable car. But it’s a long way and often not as pretty as starting your hike higher up.

I had the same issue with the Staubern cable car, it was closed due to the winds. Well, to make something out of the day, I went to Walensee and made a walk along the lake. Alternatively, Flumserberg offers short beautiful hikes not to lose the day completely. But I stubbornly wanted to do the Saxer Lücke hike and checked the wind forecast in advance before going there. It is really a great hike, worth all the trouble arriving there by public transport.

Thanks for sharing your experience. And yes, the Staubern cable car (like many others) does close in high winds for safety reasons. Always good to have a backup plan.

Fantastic post, thank you. We have 2 couples of friends visiting soon and we will probably pick one of these. I will avoid Saxer Lucke, though, because of an unfortunate experience last Fall with house guests, we had made the effort to wake up early with kids and travel by train / bus to Frumsen, hoping to go up, then Saxer Lucke, then down via Fällensee and return from Brulisau (which we have done since then) but the gondola from Frumsen to Staubern was closed due to strong winds ALTHOUGH WE HAD CHECKED on the websites. There were so many people stuck there like us that they apparently changed the way they indicate operating hours (before that it said “OPEN” on their website and closed on a general website with all transportation from Appenzell, no wonder people were confused). Well, it ended up like a super lousy day, quite annoying when your guests are here on a weekend and the weather is amazing!! Since then we are EVEN MORE vigilant with operating info…

Yes, that can be very frustrating when the website doesn’t give up-to-date info.

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Hi! I’m Tanya and our family has been living & hiking in Switzerland since 2005, collecting dozens of fun hikes and activities for all ages and abilities. More about us…

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Best Hikes Near Zurich: Stunning Trails to Explore

While there are a lot of great things to do in the city of Zurich, one of the best things to do is to get out into the stunning scenery near Zurich. 

You are in Switzerland after all, one of the most beautiful countries in the world filled with mountains, lakes, and stunning views around pretty much every turn. 

Within about an hour or a few hours of Zurich, you can find yourself on some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Switzerland and there is no better way of seeing all that the landscapes have to offer. 

Join me as I run through the best hikes near Zurich so you can choose your favorite hikes for your time in Zurich and the surrounding area.

Table of Contents

The Rigi Panorama Trail is located on Mount Rigi which is on the shores of Lake Lucerne. It is easily accessed by train from Zurich Main Station and is an awesome family hike. 

You will need to take the train from Zurich Main Station to Arth Goldau and then get on the mountain train to Rigi Kulm station. It takes about 1.5 hours or you can drive which takes about 1 hour. 

The hike starts at Rigi Kulm, 1798 meters above sea level and it takes you around to Rigi First and then ends at Rigi Scheidegg where you get a cable car back down the mountain. 

The trail is well-marked and in excellent condition, so much so that it is suitable for strollers. Along the way, you will get spectacular views across Lake Lucerne and into the mountain peaks of the Swiss alps in pretty much every direction as you go around Mt Rigi. 

There is very little elevation change on this hike, just 250 meters, so it is an easy walk and everyone can handle it from grandparents to kids. 

While on the trail you also have the option to stop at a restaurant and playground for a break and to enjoy the fresh mountain air and lovely views for a little bit longer. 

• Type: Point to Point 
• Distance: 8.2 km 
• Duration: 3 hours 
• Height Change: 230m up, 320m down
• Rating: Easy 
• Starts At: Rigi Scheidegg
• Ends At: Rigi Kulm

Melchsee Frutt

Melchsee Frutt is a stunning car-free mountain town that takes about 2.5 hours to get to from Zurich Main Station. The journey involves two trains, a bus, and a cable car but it is very much worth the effort, or you can drive to Melchsee Frutt in just 1.5 hours from Zurich. 

Considering it is a 5-hour round trip by public transport, it is best done on a day trip from Zurich or you can book an overnight stay. 

What makes hiking here so stunning is the beautiful lakes, green meadows, Swiss cows, and views of snow-capped peaks. 

The hike begins at Melchsee Frutt cable car station and takes you past the beautiful lake of Melchsee to the stunning lake Tannensee. You should then walk around the lake and back the way you came to Melchsee Frutt. 

• Type: Loop 
• Distance: 8 km 
• Starts At: Melchsee Frutt
• Ends At: Melchsee Frutt 

Related Reading

Things to do in zurich: history, culture, and swiss delicacies, stanserhorn.

Stanserhorn is a beautiful mountain on the southside of Lake Lucerne and getting there from Zurich is an awesome adventure in itself. You will have to get the train from Zurich Main Station via Lucerne to Stans where you get a funicular and then an open-air cable car to the top. 

The ride up on the open-air cable car is incredible as you get breathtaking views of Central Switzerland in every direction including 10 lakes and countless mountain peaks. 

Once you reach the peak, the impressive views continue and you can access a few viewing platforms there is even a restaurant to have lunch at. 

There are numerous hiking trails available at the top, especially if you are looking for a challenging hike. One of our favorite hiking trails for families is the 1 km loop around the peak with great views. 

• Distance: 1.5 km 
• Duration: 1 hour
• Starts At: Stanserhorn
• Ends At: Stanserhorn

Bürgenstock

One of my top hikes near Zurich is on the Bürgenstock mountain on the shore of Lake Lucerne. The view from the top is amazing, and the journey from Zurich is beautiful too. 

Take the train from Zurich Main Station to Lucerne and get on a boat across the stunning lake to Kehrsiten Bürgenstock where you get a funicular to Bürgenstock Resort Station. 

From there follow the Felsenweg Bürgenstock trail around the mountain with views across the lake to the peak at 1100 meters above sea level and to the Hammetschwand Elevator. 

You can then hop on the Hammetschwand Elevator which takes you hundreds of meters higher for an even better view of the area. 

• Type: Out & Back 
• Distance: 2-3 km 
• Duration: 1-2 hours 
• Starts At: Bürgenstock Resort Station
• Ends At: Bürgenstock Resort Station

Some of the best hikes near Zurich lie on the Uetliberg mountain , Zurich’s local mountain. You can find a few amazing hikes here that you can start from Zurich itself. 

You also have the option to take the train to the top and then hike back down after seeing the awesome views of Lake Zurich and making it to the peak. This is a wonderful autumn hike when all the leaves are changing color. 

The Planet Trail is a great hike for the family and it takes you from Uetliberg to Felseneg. It is an easy hike and every km represents 1 million kilometers in space. You start at the sun and end at Pluto, and it gives you a sense of how big our solar system is along with awesome views across the entire lake.

• Type: Point To Point 
• Distance: 6 km 
• Duration: 2 hours 
• Rating: Easy
• Starts At: Uetliberg
• Ends At: Felsenegg

Uetliberg, Switzerland: Guide To Zurich’s Mountain

Pizol 5 lakes.

One of the coolest hikes near Zurich which will show you some rugged Alpine scenery is the Pizol 5 lakes hike in Eastern Switzerland. It is a beautiful hike but a challenging one as you navigate around peaks and see five stunning lakes on the way. 

The hike starts at Pizolhütte cable car station and ends at Gaffia cable car station. Getting there from Zurich Main Station takes about 2 hours and requires a train, bus, and three cable cars, but it is worth it. 

Seeing the lakes, the rugged terrain and the views across the alpine peaks are incredible and you also get an up-close view of Pizol peak too. This is a hard hike and not so suitable for young kids, but you don’t need any special equipment to do it

• Distance: 10 km 
• Duration: 5 hours 
• Rating: Difficult 
• Starts At: Pizolhütte Cable Car Station 
• Ends At: Gaffia Cable Car Station

Lagern is one of the closest hikes near Zurich as it only takes you 15 minutes by train from Zurich Main Station to get to the starting point, Baden. 

Baden is a stunning little town that is worth exploring on its own. From there you follow the trail along the ridge to Lagern and then onto Dielsdorf where you can get back to Zurich with ease. 

There are some great viewpoints along the way as you follow the ridge and you can look to both the south and Zurich or the north. Some parts of the trail are quite challenging with steep edges, so it might not be suitable for anyone with a fear of heights. 

• Distance: 13 km
• Duration: 4 hours 
• Rating: Moderate to Difficult 
• Starts At: Baden
• Ends At: Dielsdorf

Grosser Mythen

One of the great hikes near Zurich is Grosser Mythen , which is also in the Lucerne region. Grosser Mythen is about 2.5 hours from Zurich Main Station and requires two trains, a bus, and a cable car to get to. 

Grosser Mythen is a stunning peak and it is one you can hike to the top of quite easily in comparison to other peaks in Switzerland. It is just 1.7 km from the Holzegg Cable Car Station but you have to go up 400 meters over that short distance, so it is a steep climb. 

But, there is nothing quite like standing on a mountain peak, especially for just 1.7 km of hiking. The views are epic and feature the alpine peaks, lakes, valleys, and lots more.  

• Type: Out and Back 
• Distance: 3.5 km 
• Starts At: Holzegg Cable Car Station 
• Ends At: Holzegg Cable Car Station 

Säntis is one of the most iconic peaks in Switzerland and it offers some of the best hikes near Zurich. 

Mt Säntis sits at 2501 meters above sea level and you can access it via cable car. At the top is a stunning complex to walk around and get amazing views from multiple viewing platforms. 

You can hike to the top and go on hikes from the gondola station but the hikes are for experienced hikers only as they are super steep, difficult, and dangerous. 

Unless you are up to the challenge, grab the cable car to the top and stroll around there before getting the cable car back down. 

It takes 2.5 hours to get to the peak via two trains, a bus, and a cable car from Zurich Main Station. 

• Type: Various
• Distance: Various
• Duration: Various
• Rating: Various
• Starts At: Säntis Gondola Station 
• Ends At: Säntis Gondola Station 

One of the top hikes near Zurich lies on Hasenmatt which is a part of the Jura Mountains to the east of Zurich. It takes about 1.25 hours to get to from Zurich via public transport, so is closer than a lot of the hikes near Zurich. 

The trail takes you up the mountain and gives you views across the Jura Mountains and across central Switzerland into the alps on a clear day too.  

A great place to start hiking from is the base station for the Weissenstein cable car and then hiking up the mountain, and taking the cable car down again. You can do it the other way around if you don’t want to hike up and only want to come down. 

• Distance: 12 km 
• Rating: Medium 
• Starts At: Weissenstein cable car Bottom 
• Ends At:  Weissenstein cable car Top 

The Stoos Ridge Trail is one of the coolest hikes near Zurich as you follow a ridge between two peaks with awesome views but the hike isn’t too difficult either. 

From Zurich, head to Stoos where you will board the steepest funicular in the world and a cable car to get to the peak of Klingenstock where the trail begins. It takes about 3 hours to get to using public transport. 

From Klingenstock you will follow the ridge to Fronalpstock overlooking Lake Lucerne to the east, the Alps to the south, and even more amazing views in every other direction too. At Fronalpstock ride back down to Stoos on the cable car. 

• Distance: 4.4 km 
• Starts At: Klingenstock
• Ends At: Fronalpstock

Ebenalp Seealpsee

One of my top hikes near Zurich is Ebenalp to Seealpsee which features a lovely mountain, a beautiful lake, and a great restaurant too. 

You can either take the cable car to Ebenalp and hike down to Seealpsee lake or use the service road from Wasserauen to the lake instead. Experienced hikes can take the trail down from Ebenalp but lots of people have died on the trail so the service road is recommended. 

Enjoy a loop around the lake, a summer swim, and stop at one of the restaurants around the lake for a delicious lunch. 

• Distance: 7.7 km 
• Duration: 3.5 hours 
• Starts At: Various 
• Ends At: Wasserauen

12 Mountains Near Zurich: Which Should You Explore?

Best hikes near zurich: frequently asked questions.

Is Zurich great for hiking?

Zurich is not the best place in Switzerland to base yourself on hiking, but there are some good trails close by. The likes of Lucerne have lots more hikes and better ones than Zurich. 

Are there mountains near Zurich?

Yes, there are some smaller mountains near Zurich that you can see across the lake such as Uetliberg but they are not as high compared to the alps. 

What is the most difficult hiking trail in Zurich?

The hardest hiking trail in Zurich is the Zurich to Baden via the Limmat River trail. It is 29 km long and takes about 7 hours to complete. You can find the details here . 

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