Have you ever hiked to a breathtaking viewpoint, only to find yourself sharing the moment with what feels like half of Instagram? We’ve all been there, that frustrated feeling when your peaceful mountain escape turns into a social gathering at 2,000 meters above sea level.
But here’s the good news: Switzerland still guards its secrets well. Beyond the crowded trails and popular peaks, we found five hidden gems where you still can experience the Alps in their pure form. Places where the only soundtrack is the crunch of your boots, the whistle of marmots, and perhaps the distant ring of cowbells.
Ready to discover these 5 Secret Hiking Trails in Switzerland? Let’s explore Switzerland’s mountains the way they were meant to be experienced. peacefully, naturally, and far away from the crowds.
5 Secret Hiking Trails in Switzerland
1. Oeschinensee Trail: A Turquoise Dream Above Kandersteg
Our first hidden gem brings us to the canton of Bern. Nestled in the Bernese Alps, the Oeschinensee Trail is one of those places that makes you question whether you’re still on Earth or have somehow wandered into a painter’s masterpiece. The star of the show? A stunning turquoise lake surrounded by towering limestone cliffs that seem to touch the sky.
Getting there requires a bit of planning, but it’s delightfully straightforward. From Kandersteg (easily accessible by train from major Swiss cities), take the cable car up to Oeschinensee station.
Pro tip: Arrive early to catch the first cable car – the morning light on the lake is pure magic. By car, there’s a convenient parking lot at the cable car station in Kandersteg.
The circular trail takes about 3-4 hours, depending on how many times you stop to pick your jaw up off the ground. It’s a moderate hike that even intermediate hikers can handle comfortably.
2. Flumserberg Alpine Flora Trail: A Botanical Paradise
Hidden away in Eastern Switzerland, this trail is the go to recommendation for nature lovers who want to experience the Alps’ incredible biodiversity. What makes this trail special is the stunning variety of Alpine flowers that carpet the meadows during late spring and summer.
To reach the trailhead, take the cable car from Flums (accessible by train from Zurich) to Tannenheim. Drivers can park at the valley station in Flums. The trail winds through flower-filled meadows for about 2-3 hours, offering constant views that’ll have your camera working overtime.
3. Näfelsee Obersee Alpine Lake Walk: Double Lake Wonder
This hidden gem in Central Switzerland offers not one, but two pristine mountain lakes. And invites you with amazing views and a lot of nice photo spots. It is a perfect trail for a get away Sunday hike.
The trail starts from Näfels, reachable by regular buses from Glarus station. If you’re driving, there’s a small parking area near the trail start. The hike takes about 4-5 hours round trip, but plan for longer if you want to spend some time at both lakes.
4. Stäubifall Hike: Chasing Waterfalls
Located in the heart of canton Uri, this trail leads to one of Switzerland’s most impressive yet least visited waterfalls. The sound of rushing water accompanies you throughout most of the hike, building anticipation for the main event.
Access the trail from Amsteg (regular trains from Lucerne or Zurich). Drivers can use the parking lot near the power station. The hike takes about 2-3 hours round trip, but we recommend packing a picnic and making a day of it. The best part? The trail is accessible all year long, though spring offers the most spectacular water flow.
5. Chli Aubrig Trail: Above the Fog Line
The “Chli Aubrig Trail” is the best choice for misty autumn mornings when the valleys are shrouded in fog. Located in the Pre-Alps of central Switzerland, this trail often puts you above the cloud line, creating an otherworldly hiking experience.
Reach the trailhead from Vorderthal (regular PostBus connections from Siebnen-Wangen station). For drivers, there’s parking available at the trail start. The circular route takes about 3-4 hours, offering some of the best views of the Mythen peaks and Lake Zurich (when you’re not walking through clouds).
Remember, these trails are best hiked between late spring and early autumn. Always check local weather conditions before setting out, and carry appropriate gear. And always remember to bring enough drinks for your hikes! These might be hidden gems, but they’re absolutely worth the extra effort to reach them!
Pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to explore these magical corners of Switzerland. The memories you’ll make on these trails will last a lifetime.
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