Hikes in Swiss Alps

The Fründen Hut hike will take you around and above Lake Oeschinen, perhaps the most beautiful high-altitude lake in Switzerland

The Matterhorn Glacier Trail (Nr. 26) takes you close to the Furgg Glacier and right beside the east flank of the Matterhorn. In good weather the Matterhorn glistens in the light, which is simply stunning! Contrary to the name of the hike, you will not negotiate any glacier surface or even snow in summer. The hike is relatively easy with a largely downhill grade and is suitable for most fit adults.

The Eiger Trail skirts the north face of one of the most iconic mountains in Europe. The hike is relatively easy but the views are breathtaking. Besides the imposing presence of the Eiger, you get a good look down to Kleine Sheidegg and the Grindelwald Valley.

Zermatt is an area strewn with hiking trails that intersect on well signposted routes. This hike can be altered depending on your desired length and difficulty thanks to great signage on the trails. The trail leads to a refuge/restaurant overlooking Zermatt on a cliff edge before taking a less steep route though picturesque villages, finally winding back to Zermatt.

Hiking around Daubensee Lake gives you a gentle work out with a great view of glaciers, the lake, and the surrounding summits. The hike itself is not strenuous but you have to mind a bit of exposure on the narrow trail. A picnic along the trail will let you soak in the picturesque setting. Every year, a shepherd festival is held to mark the friendship between the Bernese Oberland and the Vallais region where 800 sheep are herded to the banks of the lake on the last Sunday of July.

The Aletsch Glacier hike gives you a great view of the largest glacier in the Alps from an elevated vantage point. The hike is easy and starts with a gentle descent. There is a chance you will encounter marmots on the trail.

Lac Bleu is claimed to be the clearest lake in the Swiss Alps. The hike to this gem is short but steep, perfect for a picnic while relaxing on the banks of the lake. The view from around the lake rewards you with stunning snapshots of snow-capped summits.

Bachalpsee is a very easy hike with a fantastic view of snow-capped summits reflecting off the calm lake. The hiking is on well-trodden paths with easy inclines except for the steep start of the trail. This hike is suitable for a picnic, so bring a mat and relax by the lake.

Pierre Avoi is a mountain near the village of Verbier, located in the canton of Valais. Hiking to the summit is quite short but has steep ascents that reward you with great views of surrounding mountains in every direction.

Hiking to Lacs de Fenetre is a challenging workout that takes you to a viewpoint of three alpine lakes and a glaciated mountain range. The hiking is mostly on a rocky trail with some steep ascents, but it’s relatively safe.

This is a challenging hike that starts out in Switzerland, crosses the border to Italy, passes two alpine lakes, descends to lake Montespluga, then loops back to the border. The views from the trail facing both Switzerland and Italy are superb. Lunch in a restaurant at the Italian side is a great treat before you head back to the pass.

The Fontanet to Les Ruinettes trail takes you through beautiful paths above Verbier village, which is famous for skiing and its bike park. The trail is accessed by lifts and meanders down to Les Ruinettes. The view is spectacular and the walk is easy enough to just enjoy the scenery.

The Arolla Glacier Trail takes you to a viewpoint overlooking the glacier and surrounding mountains. The hike is easy enough for any reasonably fit person and even in summer there are no crowds in this relatively remote valley.

Passo del Gottardo (Gotthard Pass) is the most important north-south alpine route in Switzerland. Hiking from Gotthard Pass to Hospental takes you through the beautiful Hospen Valley with views of snowy summits, alpine meadows, and the dam of Lake Lucendro.

The Quille du Diable hike traverses the Glacier de Tsanfleuron with great views of Oldenhorn (10246ft) and turns around near the Tour Saint Martin (9216ft, aka Quille du Diable). The path has been groomed to allow you to walk easily on snow using ordinary hiking or winter boots. A restaurant at the turnaround point allows you to rest and admire the stunning view down the valley around Derborence. Glacier 3000 is a ski resort that provides the lift access and amenities in this area.

If you are staying in the Geneva or Lausanne area, Lac Lioson is a short distance and an easy hike away to experience a pretty alpine lake. There is a restaurant beside the lake that serves very good food. You have the choice of completing the loop around the hill for a more challenging walk or returning to the parking lot from the lake to make it a very easy hike.

This route takes you along a pedestrian trail that passes through interesting tunnels and over roadways, adjacent to the Reuss River. You’ll be treated to pleasant views between Andermatt and Goschenen. This is an easy outing if you’re in the area.

This walk is easy and takes you into the stunning Dala Gorge over the river with a waterfall to enjoy. There are a few picnic tables to rest at. On the way, you have a view of the spectacular mountain scenery that surrounds Leukerbad. Young children and adults both should be able to enjoy this hike.