Autumn hikes in Switzerland: five of the most beautiful routes

Is there even a most beautiful autumn hike of all? Or are all hikes through colourful autumn forests beautiful? It’s probably a matter of opinion. But one thing is certain: hiking through a colourful forest on a warm, sunny autumn day, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the horizons thanks to the clear view is a true experience! Looking for an autumn hike? Here are five suggestions.

Autumn hike in Central Switzerland: Alter Schwyzerweg trail

The ‘Alte Schwyzerweg’ leads over the Ibergeregg Pass and through pre-Alpine landscapes in the Mythen region. On this historic mule trail, it’s not just the view of the Schwyz valley basin that’s beautiful, but also the panorama from the Grosser Mythen and the atmosphere in the Ibergeregg nature reserve.

Start/finish: Oberiberg/Schwyz
Ascent: 351 m
Distance: 13.5 km
Duration: approx. 4h

Autumn hike in the Engadin: circular hike in Val Trupchun

This hike in the Swiss National Park leads through the particularly wild Trupchun valley. From S-chanf, it leads into the forest before continuing on a high path after a few forks. Cross the Ova da Trupchun on a wooden bridge and soon the first rest stop will follow. There’s a second stop at Alp Trupchun – it’s definitely worth taking a break to relax and enjoy the experience. This circular hike leads back to S-charl in the valley.

Start/finish: S-chanf
Ascent: 441 m
Distance: 13.9 km
Duration: approx. 4:30h

Autumn hike near Zurich: along the Sihl

This hike is particularly beautiful on a foggy day, because you’ll ideally be above the fog in Schönenberg. From the village at 714 metres above sea level, the route then leads down through a protected marsh to the Sihlsprung, a section of the Sihltobel. The Sihl meanders between blocks of rocky conglomerate and the hiking path leads around and over the rocks. It is a flat but very varied hike. Short after Sihlmatt, there is a rest area where you can take a break.

Start/finish: Schönenberg/Sihlbrugg
Ascent: 120 m
Distance: 9.4 km
Duration: 2:30h

Autumn hike in the Bernese Oberland: via Greberegg to Pochtenfall

Only the very beginning and end of this circular hike feature a paved road. The route mainly leads over alpine pastures and through the forest. Along the way, it’s worth taking a look back at the Aare Valley or the striking Niesen. On the left you’ll see Lake Thun, on the right the Suld and Kander Valleys. And when the trees are starting to look bare, you’ll be able to see Interlaken and Lake Brienz. There is a rest area at the Pochtenfall, 80 metres above sea level. It’s worth taking a break here before walking along the Suldbach stream back to the starting point.

Start/finish: Aeschiried
Ascent: 800 m
Distance: 13 km
Duration: 4:50h

Autumn hike in Einsiedeln: circular hike to Chli Aubrig

From Einsiedeln, a post bus runs regularly to Euthal, where this hike starts. First along the Eubach river on a gravel path, then through the Chilentobel gorge and over alpine pastures to Wildegg. When the weather is good, it’s worth climbing an additional 150 metres to Chli Aubrig – the view of the lakes and mountains is sweeping. The descent then takes place on the other side of the Chilentobel and the final stretch to Euthal leads along the Eubach once again.

Start/finish: Euthal
Ascent: 786 m
Distance: 11.6 km
Duration: 4:25h

Equipment for autumn hikes

The most beautiful hikes are even better with the right equipment. In autumn, temperatures can fluctuate significantly throughout the day, and it gets dark earlier. The following article provides an overview of what you need to pack for your autumn hike.