There's that one moment in autumn when you step out of your front door, the air smells different – cooler, clearer – and you just know: now it's time to get out. That's exactly what Swiss autumn is made for. The paths are emptier than in summer, the light is lower, and the forests turn into a sea of yellow, orange, and red. We've put together some of our favorite autumn routes, right across Switzerland.
Iseltwald to Giessbach, Bernese Oberland
Lake Brienz is one of the most photographed places in Switzerland, and for good reason. The hike leads from the small village of Iseltwald to the Giessbach Waterfall, along one of the most beautiful stretches of the lake's shore. You walk along the bank, the turquoise water on one side, the colorful forests on the other. Not a particularly long path, but one that will be remembered for a long time.
The Old Schwyz Trail
If you like a bit of history in your hike, you should try the old Schwyzerweg. This historic mule track leads over the Ibergeregg Pass through pre-Alpine landscapes, with views of the Schwyz valley basin and the Grosse Mythen. You walk on paths that were already in use centuries ago, enjoying one of the most beautiful views in Central Switzerland.
Chestenberg in Aargau
Not every good hike requires a long journey. The Chestenberg in Aargau is one such case. You start at Schinznach-Bad train station and walk through beech forests, their leaves shimmering golden in the autumn light, with a castle at each end of the route. Perfect for an October evening when you want to get out quickly before it gets dark.
Bettmersee in Valais
Around Saas-Fee and the Aletsch region, the larch forests transform into something almost magical in autumn. The hike around Lake Bettmersee leads through colorful bushes and trees, combining with the first light snow covers of the surrounding mountains. If you have some time left, combine the route with the famous Aletsch Forest. Luminous larches, views of the glacier – something you won't soon forget.
Val Trupchun in the National Park
For all those yearning for true wilderness, Val Trupchun in the Engadin is a great tip. You start in S-chanf, walk into the forest, and then follow the ridge trail before crossing the Ova da Trupchun river via a wooden bridge. The valley is considered one of the wildest in the entire national park. With a bit of luck, in autumn you might even hear the stags roaring, right in the middle of rutting season.
What you shouldn't be without on an autumn hike
Autumn has its own rules. Mornings are often crisp, the midday sun can be unexpectedly warm, and then it gets dark early again. The best approach is to dress in layers: a base layer, a mid-layer for cooler sections, and a wind and waterproof outer layer in case the weather turns. A small headlamp belongs in every backpack, just in case you're out longer than planned. And sturdy shoes with good grip are not a luxury, but a necessity. Wet leaves can be surprisingly slippery on the paths.
Conclusion
You don't have to travel far to experience something beautiful in autumn. Whether it's a short walk through a beech forest after work or a longer tour in the Engadin, Switzerland has the right route for every need. Put on warm layers, pack your headlamp, and get out there while the leaves are still colorful.
