10 BEST HIKES FROM LUCERNE
Lucerne isn’t just a postcard-perfect Swiss city—it’s a gateway to some of the most spectacular hikes in the Alps. Whether you’re looking for a gentle lakeside stroll, a panoramic ridge walk, or a summit challenge, the region offers something for every hiker. From legendary peaks like Pilatus and Rigi to hidden gems with sweeping alpine views, these trails let you experience Switzerland’s natural beauty up close.
With easy access via boats, trains, and cable cars, these hikes are perfect for day trips from Lucerne. This guide takes you through 10 unforgettable hikes, complete with difficulty levels, trail details, and tips on how to reach them. Lace up your boots, breathe in the crisp mountain air and get ready to explore the best trails Lucerne has to offer.
1. Mount Pilatus – Dragon Trail
The Dragon Trail on Mount Pilatus offers a mix of hiking and folklore. Starting from Pilatus Kulm, the trail provides stunning panoramic views of Lucerne and the surrounding Alps. The route is well-marked and relatively easy, making it suitable for families and intermediate hikers. The myth of dragons inhabiting the mountain adds an element of mystery and excitement.
Difficulty: Intermediate
Technical Level (T-Level): T2
Location: Mount Pilatus
Distance: 4.3 km (2.7 miles)
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
How to Get There: Take a train from Lucerne to Alpnachstad, then the world’s steepest cogwheel railway or a gondola from Kriens to Pilatus Kulm.
2. Rigi Panorama Trail
Known as the “Queen of the Mountains,” Mount Rigi offers a gentle hike along the Panorama Trail from Rigi Kaltbad to Rigi Scheidegg. Visiting Mount Rigi is an excellent option if you’re staying in Lucerne or want to take a short day trip from Zurich, which is just 40 minutes away. This trail is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with breathtaking views over Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and the distant Alps. The path is wide and well-maintained, making it an enjoyable and relaxing hike. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug and the distant Alps. There are numerous hikes available on Mount Rigi, catering to various durations and difficulty levels.
You can take the cogwheel railway from Vitznau or Arth-Goldau to reach Rigi Kulm at the top. Take a stop along the way to begin your hike from a different point. Once at the top, soak in the stunning views and then hike down to Rigi First, where you can connect with the Rigi Panorama Trail. This scenic trail offers an easy-to-moderate hike with breathtaking vistas and is perfect for a relaxing day in the mountains.
Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
Technical Level (T-Level): T1
Location: Mount Rigi
Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
How to Get There: Catch a train from Lucerne to Vitznau or a ferry ride from Lucerne to Vitznau for a trip across the lake. Take the cogwheel train from either Vitznau or Arth Goldau all the way to the top at the Rigi Kulm station. From here hike down to the Rigi First station where the trail joins up with the Rigi Panoramic Trail. Follow the trail all the way to the Rigi Scheideg station.
3. Stanserhorn Panorama Hike
The Stanserhorn mountain is a lesser known hiking destination and not so popular amongst the tourists, so you’ll be sure to avoid crowds here. The Panorama hike offers stunning 360-degree views and is perfect for all hiking abilities, where you can either enjoy a 30 minute walk or a strenuous hike to the peak. At the panorama viewing station, follow the path “Murmeli” which will take you on a flowers Trail and is a delightful hike that showcases the region’s rich flora. Starting from the summit station, this circular route is easy and perfect for families.
Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
Technical Level (T-Level): T1
Location: Stanserhorn
Distance: 2 km (1.2 miles)
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
How to Get There: Take a train from Lucerne to Stans, then the funicular and the open-air CabriO cable car to the top.
4. Bürgenstock Felsenweg
The Bürgenstock Felsenweg, or Cliff Path, is an easy and picturesque hike along the cliff edge, offering stunning views over Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. The trail leads to the Hammetschwand Lift, the highest outdoor elevator in Europe, which takes you up to an amazing viewpoint. This hike is accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
Difficulty: Easy
Technical Level (T-Level): T1
Location: Bürgenstock
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
How to Get There: Take a boat from Lucerne to Kehrsiten-Bürgenstock, then the funicular up to the Bürgenstock Resort.
5. Brunni – Engelberg to Ristis
Description: This hike from Engelberg to Ristis via Brunni is perfect for those looking for a bit more challenge. The trail offers a mix of forest paths, alpine meadows, and breathtaking views of the Engelberg Valley. It also features a Kneipp path for a refreshing foot bath and a suspension bridge for an added thrill. The trail is well-marked and offers plenty of scenic spots for breaks and photos.
Difficulty: Intermediate
Technical Level (T-Level): T2
Location: Engelberg
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
How to Get There: Take a train from Lucerne to Engelberg, then a cable car to Brunni.
6. Lungernsee Panorama Trail
This hidden gem offers one of the most picturesque hikes in central Switzerland. The trail winds around the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Lungern, with gorgeous mountain reflections and peaceful surroundings. It’s a perfect escape from the crowds. A lovely destination with peaceful forest paths and an easygoing route with plenty of picnic spots, fire pits and restaurants at both ends of the lake.
Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
Technical Level (T-Level): T1
Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
How to Get There: Take a train from Lucerne to Lungern, then follow the marked trail around the lake.
7.Niederbauen-Chulm Ridge Hike
This lesser-known ridge hike offers breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. It’s a touch climb to reach the viewpoint but a relatively short hike with an incredibly rewarding view of stunning scenery.
Difficulty: Intermediate
Technical Level (T-Level): T2
Location: Niederbauen
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
How to Get There: Take a train from Lucerne to Emmetten, then a cable car up to Niederbauen.
8. Stoos – Fronalpstock Summit Hike
The Stoos hike takes you to one of the best viewpoints in the region: the summit of Fronalpstock. The hike offers panoramic views of Lake Lucerne, Mount Pilatus, and the surrounding peaks. The trail starts from the car-free mountain village of Stoos and ascends steeply, passing through alpine meadows and rocky terrain. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views. The hike is a bit challenging but well worth the effort.
Difficulty: Intermediate to Hard
Technical Level (T-Level): T2-T3
Location: Stoos, Schwyz
Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
How to Get There: Take a train from Lucerne to Schwyz, then a funicular up to Stoos. From Stoos, hike to Fronalpstock summit.
9. Schwyz to Mythen – The Mythen Peaks
This hike takes you through alpine meadows and dense forests before reaching the iconic Mythen Peaks. The summit offers sweeping views of the surrounding lakes and mountains, including the Alps. The trail is steep and challenging but is perfect for experienced hikers looking for a rewarding experience when reaching the iconic peak.
Difficulty: Hard
Technical Level (T-Level): T3
Location: Schwyz
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
How to Get There: Take a train from Lucerne to Schwyz, then follow the trail leading to the Mythen Peaks.
10. Engelberg to Trübsee
This scenic hike takes you through lush meadows and forested paths, with the highlight being the stunning Trübsee Lake beneath the towering mountains. The walk is relatively easy, making it suitable for all skill levels, and fantastic for kids as there are plenty of playgrounds. It can be combined with a trip to the top of Mount Titlis where you can embark on a glacier walk or visit ice caves.
Difficulty: Easy
Technical Level (T-Level): T1
Location: Engelberg
Distance: 3.3 km (2 miles)
Duration: 1 hour
How to Get There: Take a train from Lucerne to Engelberg, then either walk to the starting point or take a cable car up to the Trübsee area and enjoy the walk around the lake.
One thing you need to keep in mind is Switzerland’s mountain weather likes to keep you on your toes. So, always check the forecast before heading out! Layers are your best friend for those surprise temperature changes and don’t forget to pack some water—though chances are you’ll find a fresh alpine spring to top up your bottle.
These hikes from Lucerne offer something for everyone, from leisurely walks with stunning views to more challenging trails for the adventurous. Embrace the natural beauty of Switzerland and enjoy the best hiking experiences around Lucerne!