Trekking The Switzerland Alps: 10 Best Hikes
Trekking Switzerland's Alps is a magical experience for any outdoor enthusiast. The Alps span a great distance, with an enormous variety of hiking trails and landscapes on offer. If you want to immerse yourself in Switzerland’s amazing natural beauty, then taking a multi-day trek is one of the best ways to do it.
While most treks in the Alps span many days or even weeks, these treks can be broken down into smaller, more manageable sections.
For example, at Skyhook, we offer a four-day guided hike of Tour du Mont Blanc, which lets you experience all the highlights of this route without having to commit to the full nine-day circuit.
Our guided Matterhorn Highlights tour is also a shortened version of hiking the Matterhorn in Switzerland, which is a much longer circuit.
If you’re interested in going trekking Switzerland Alps, here’s everything you need to know.
What You Need to Know About Trekking Switzerland Alps
Trekking in the Swiss Alps is a remarkable experience, offering stunning landscapes, challenging trails, and a chance to immerse yourself in nature.
Here's what you need to know to prepare for multi-day treks in the Switzerland Alps:
Landscape
The Swiss Alps boast breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, alpine lakes, and charming villages. The trails often provide panoramic views of iconic peaks like the Matterhorn, Jungfrau, and Eiger.
The terrain varies from well-marked paths to rugged and rocky trails. You'll encounter alpine forests, meadows filled with wildflowers, and high-altitude rocky sections. Be prepared for diverse conditions.
See also: Best winter hikes in Switzerland and best sledding in Switzerland
Difficulty Levels
Easy to Moderate Treks
Some of the best hikes in Switzerland for beginners are suitable for less experienced hikers. These treks may involve gentle ascents and descents, well-maintained paths, and shorter daily distances.
Moderate to Challenging Treks
Intermediate treks may include steeper ascents and descents, longer distances, and possibly some sections with rough terrain. Previous hiking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.
Challenging Treks
For experienced hikers, more challenging routes involve steep climbs, technical sections, and higher altitudes. These treks require excellent fitness levels and often involve carrying a backpack with necessary gear.
Preparation
Physical Fitness
If you’re planning to go trekking the Switzerland Alps, you’ll need to get your fitness levels up. How much you train should depend on the route you're taking.
Strengthen your cardiovascular fitness and leg muscles. Incorporate hiking, stair climbing, and endurance training into your routine.
Altitude Acclimatization
Acclimatize gradually to reduce the risk of altitude sickness if your trek involves significant altitude changes. Spend a day or two at intermediate altitudes before reaching higher elevations.
See also: Most dangerous hike in Switzerland
Gear and Clothing
If you want to know what to wear while hiking in Switzerland, you should always pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, waterproof layers, sturdy hiking boots, and a comfortable backpack. Consider trekking poles for stability, especially on steep descents.
Navigation
Familiarize yourself with trail maps, and consider using GPS devices or smartphone apps for navigation. Trails are generally well-marked, but weather conditions can affect visibility.
Accommodation
Plan your accommodations in advance, especially for popular trails. Options range from mountain huts to hotels in nearby villages. Camping is also an option for adventurous hikers.
Weather Awareness
Be prepared for unpredictable weather, even in summer - which is considered the best time of year to hike in Switzerland. Dress in layers and carry essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and rain gear.
Trekking Switzerland Alps: 10 Best Hikes
Hiking in the Alps in Switzerland offers endless routes and trails to explore. If you’re interested in multi-day hikes in Switzerland, here are some of the best options for trekking Switzerland's Alps.
1. Haute Route
Duration: 10-12 days
Route: Chamonix (France) to Zermatt (Switzerland)
Highlights: Cross high mountain passes, witness stunning glaciers, and enjoy iconic views of the Matterhorn.
Overview
The Haute Route is a legendary trek that spans approximately 180 kilometers, taking hikers from the mountaineering capital of Chamonix in France to the iconic Swiss town of Zermatt.
This challenging 10-12 day trek leads adventurers through high mountain passes, such as the famous Col de Cheilon and the Pigne d'Arolla, offering unparalleled views of glaciers and the majestic Matterhorn.
Along the way, trekkers traverse alpine meadows, and quaint villages, and stay in mountain huts, immersing themselves in the region's unique culture.
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Highlights
The highlights of the Haute Route are numerous, from the spectacular panorama of the Mont Collon to the serenity of the Arolla Valley. Trekkers also encounter the beauty of the Great Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps.
The journey culminates with the awe-inspiring sight of Switzerland’s Matterhorn. This trek is not only a physical challenge but a visual feast, offering an unforgettable experience for those seeking a true alpine adventure.
2. Tour du Mont Blanc
Duration: 7-10 days
Route: Circumnavigate Mont Blanc, passing through France, Italy, and Switzerland.
Highlights: Experience diverse landscapes, charming villages, and breathtaking alpine scenery.
Overview
When it comes to trekking Switzerland Alps, this is the most famous route. It’s also one of the best routes for beginners through to experienced hikers, as the Tour du Mont Blanc is extremely well catered for. You can also cut the full circuit into smaller sections if you don't have the time to do the full hike.
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a classic multi-day trek that circumnavigates the imposing Mont Blanc massif, traversing through France, Italy, and Switzerland. Spanning 170 kilometers over 7-10 days, the trail winds through charming alpine villages, lush meadows, and high mountain passes.
Trekkers experience diverse landscapes, crossing the renowned Col de Bonhomme and Col de la Seigne, with breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc range throughout the journey. If you’re wondering where to stay in Switzerland for hiking, anywhere along the Tour du Mont Blanc trail is a great option.
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Highlights
Highlights of the Tour du Mont Blanc include the picturesque Val Ferret, the tranquil Courmayeur, and the iconic views of the Aiguille du Midi. Trekkers also encounter the pristine shores of Lac Blanc and the challenging ascent to the Col des Fours.
The trek combines challenging terrain with cultural immersion, as hikers pass through traditional mountain hamlets and enjoy local cuisine in refuges along the way.
The Tour du Mont Blanc is not just a physical adventure; it's a cultural and visual odyssey around one of the most celebrated peaks in the world.
3. Bernese Oberland Traverse
Duration: 6-8 days
Route: Circular route exploring the Bernese Oberland region.
Highlights: Views of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, pristine alpine lakes, and lush meadows.
Overview
The Bernese Oberland Traverse is a 6-8 day circular trek that explores the stunning Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. Starting and ending in picturesque villages like Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, this trek offers breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
The route takes hikers through lush valleys, alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers, and pristine lakes such as Bachalpsee. Trekkers may also encounter charming mountain huts, providing an authentic alpine experience.
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Highlights
One of the highlights is the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, offering a surreal and icy landscape. The traverse also includes high-altitude trails like the North Face Trail, providing panoramic views of the iconic peaks.
With the option to take a cable car or cogwheel train for some sections, the Bernese Oberland Traverse caters to a range of hiking abilities while showcasing the beauty of the Swiss Alps.
4. Engadine Trek
Duration: 4-7 days
Route: Explore the Engadine region, starting in St. Moritz.
Highlights: Crystal-clear lakes, traditional Swiss villages, and panoramic mountain views.
Overview
The Engadine Trek is a 4-7 day adventure that allows hikers to explore the Engadine region, commencing in the world-famous St. Moritz.
The route takes trekkers through crystal-clear lakes like Sils and Silvaplana and past traditional Swiss villages like Guarda.
With well-marked trails, the Engadine offers a mix of challenging ascents, rewarding descents, and sections of serene meadows. Accommodations range from cozy mountain huts to charming inns in historical villages.
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Highlights
Trekkers on the Engadine route are treated to panoramic mountain views, including the Piz Bernina, the highest peak in the Eastern Alps. The trek also covers the Bernina Range, featuring stunning peaks like Piz Palü and Piz Roseg.
Additionally, the route passes through the Val Roseg, a pristine valley surrounded by towering peaks, making the Engadine Trek a delightful journey for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural richness.
5. Zermatt to Saas Fee
Duration: 5-7 days
Route: Connect the iconic villages of Zermatt and Saas Fee.
Highlights: Views of the Matterhorn, high-altitude trails, and alpine flora.
Overview
The Zermatt to Saas Fee trek is a 5-7 day journey connecting two iconic Swiss villages beneath towering peaks. The trail offers stunning views of the Matterhorn as you depart from Zermatt and traverse high-altitude paths towards Saas Fee.
Hikers will encounter a variety of landscapes, from alpine meadows to rocky terrains. The route includes charming hamlets like Randa and Täsch, providing a glimpse into traditional Swiss mountain life.
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Highlights
This trek's highlight is undoubtedly the Matterhorn's close-up views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The high-altitude sections provide a sense of accomplishment, and the opportunity to explore Saas Fee, known as the "Pearl of the Alps," adds cultural richness to the trek. This journey is a balance of challenging trails and awe-inspiring mountain scenery.
6. Graubünden Trek
Duration: 7-9 days
Route: Traverse through the canton of Graubünden.
Highlights: Remote valleys, charming hamlets, and the Piz Bernina, the highest peak in the Eastern Alps.
Overview
The Graubünden Trek spans 7-9 days, traversing the canton of Graubünden in southeastern Switzerland. This trek offers a combination of remote valleys, dense forests, and high alpine terrain.
Starting in Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, the route leads through the scenic landscapes of the Rhine Gorge, the "Swiss Grand Canyon," and passes through charming villages like Arosa and Lenzerheide.
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Highlights
Highlights of the Graubünden Trek include the ascent to Piz Bernina, the highest peak entirely within Switzerland, and the exploration of the Engadine Valley.
Trekkers will also appreciate the tranquility of the Swiss National Park, home to diverse alpine wildlife. The Graubünden region offers a mix of cultural and natural wonders, making this trek a captivating adventure.
7. Jungfrau Region Circuit
Duration: 5-7 days
Route: Circular trek around the Jungfrau massif.
Highlights: Explore the Aletsch Glacier, hike through flower-filled meadows, and enjoy stunning views of the iconic peaks.
Overview
The Jungfrau Region Circuit is a 5-7 day circular trek around the iconic Jungfrau massif. Beginning and ending in Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, this route takes hikers through various landscapes, including flower-filled meadows, dense forests, and high-alpine terrain.
The trek provides stunning views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, and the trio of famous peaks: Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
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Highlights
Trekkers on this circuit will have the opportunity to explore the charming villages of Wengen and Mürren, accessible only by cable car or cogwheel train. The trek also includes a section of the Eiger Trail, offering close-up views of the notorious Eiger North Face.
With the option to take side trips to iconic spots like the Schilthorn and Jungfraujoch, the Jungfrau Region Circuit caters to a range of interests and hiking abilities.
8. Alpine Pass Route
Duration: 15-20 days
Route: From Sargans to Montreux, crossing 16 mountain passes.
Highlights: Varied landscapes, including forests, meadows, and high mountain terrain.
Overview
The Alpine Pass Route is an extensive 15-20 day trek covering approximately 340 kilometers from Sargans to Montreux. This challenging route involves crossing 16 mountain passes, providing a thorough exploration of the Swiss Alps.
Hikers experience diverse landscapes, from lush forests in the early stages to the rugged high-altitude terrain in the central sections, and finally, the serene lakeside paths near Montreux.
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Highlights
Highlights of the Alpine Pass Route include the ascent to Piz Palü, a majestic peak overlooking the Engadine Valley, and the traverse through the remote and pristine Lötschental.
Trekkers also encounter the iconic lakes of Geneva and Thun in the later stages of the route. This trek is a comprehensive journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps, offering a mix of challenging climbs and rewarding descents.
9. Three Lakes Hike
Duration: 4-6 days
Route: Connects Lake Geneva, Lake Neuchâtel, and Lake Biel.
Highlights: Lakeside trails, vineyards, and historic towns.
Overview
The Three Lakes Hike is a 4-6 day trek that connects the shores of Lake Geneva, Lake Neuchâtel, and Lake Biel. Starting in Montreux, the route takes hikers through vineyards, charming Swiss villages like Murten, and alongside the serene lakeshores.
This trek is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from lakeside paths to forested trails.
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Highlights
Highlights of the Three Lakes Hike include the medieval town of Gruyères, famous for its cheese, and the picturesque city of Neuchâtel. Trekkers will also be able to explore the charming town of Biel, known for its watchmaking heritage.
The Three Lakes Hike combines cultural exploration with scenic beauty, making it a delightful journey through the Swiss Plateau.
10. Jura Crest Trail
Duration: 10-14 days
Route: Along the Jura mountain range, from Dielsdorf to Nyon.
Highlights: Rolling hills, dense forests, and panoramic views of the Swiss Plateau.
Overview
The Jura Crest Trail is a 10-14-day trek along the Jura mountain range, extending from Dielsdorf to Nyon. This trek offers a unique experience, featuring rolling hills, dense forests, and panoramic views of the Swiss Plateau.
The route takes hikers through nature reserves and protected landscapes, providing a sense of tranquility and natural beauty.
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Highlights
Highlights of the Jura Crest Trail include the Doubs River Valley, known for its meandering river and picturesque landscapes, and the Creux du Van, a natural amphitheater with stunning rock formations.
Trekkers will also pass through charming Jura villages, each with its own distinct character. The Jura Crest Trail offers a serene and less-traveled trekking experience, perfect for those seeking solitude and connection with nature.
Conclusion
No matter what route you take, trekking in Switzerland’s Alps is always an amazing experience. Just make sure you’re prepared with the right gear and trail knowledge, and that you know what to expect when hitting a multi-day trail.
Take it slow, soak up the scenery, and enjoy every moment of the Alps. Whether you’re in a group or solo trekking in Switzerland, traversing through the Alps is always an unforgettable experience with us at Skyhook Adventure.
