10 Spring walks near Zurich for April

Hooray for sunny spring weather! Everyone is asking me where they can hike now that the spring is here. Hiking season is still a few weeks away, so you have to be a little picky where you go. I looked at where we went in April over the past dozen years and made a list of outdoor outings, particularly for families, that are possible this month. I hope this helps!

Big views

1. Etzel Kulm

A short loop trail to a beautiful viewpoint over Lake Zürich and Swiss countryside. At the top, there is a restaurant and playground with panorama views. I did this hike with my son on May 6, 2020.

Moderate • 1 h • 3k • 130m up/down

See details for Etzel Kulm hike

2. Bachtel

Short hike to a panorama viewpoint of the Zürich region, with a tall tower to climb, fun playground, restaurant with ice cream sundaes. I did this hike with my son on April 26, 2021.

Moderate • 1.5 h • 3 k • 250m up/down

See details for Bachtel hike

3. Uetliberg Panorama Trail

Uetliberg is the mountain overlooking Zürich city. You have many choices for trails here. You can do the Panorama Trail , about 5.7 km along this ridge, then ride the Felsenegg cable car down and train back to Zürich. Or do a short loop near Felsenegg, which is easy walking and possible with strollers.

Or you can get your legs into hiking shape by hiking from Zürich city up the mountain. Try one of these three trails to the top.

Get details for Uetliberg Panorama Trail.

4. Loorenköpf

It’s mostly a walk through the forest. But your destination is a tall tower overlooking Zürich, a beautiful perspective of this area.

Easy • 1.25 h • 4 k • 90m up/down

See details for Loorenköpf tower walk

Around lakes

5. Türlersee

This small lake near Zurich is nestled in a quiet valley, making you feel far away from everything even though you are so close to the city. There is an easy loop trail around the lake (about 4 km), smooth enough for a stroller and short enough that a 5 year old can walk around it without too much complaining. Perfect for picnics.

Easy • 1.5 h • 4 k • 80m up/down

Get more details for Türlersee lake walk.

6. Gattiker Weiher

7. Lützelsee

This 3 km loop walk around Lützelsee near Stäfa is easy and obstacle-free, good for little kids, strollers and anyone who enjoys a relaxing stroll around a pretty lake. Part of the path is through a protected nature reserve, part through a forest, and a short part through a quiet neighborhood. There are a couple cafes and farm stores along the way. There is a big picnic area with tables and grill pits.

Easy • 1 h • 3 k • 20m up/down

Get details for Lützelsee lake walk

Along rivers

8. Horgen Aabach

9. Küsnacht Ravine

This walk through a forested ravine is a local favorite for good reason. It follows a pretty stream the whole way, so lots of opportunities to throw rocks. Good year round, suitable for strollers.

Easy • 2.5 h • 7 k • 280m down

Get more details for Küsnacht Ravine Walk

10. Sihlwald

Fun loop through the forest with 12 interactive stations, including a wood log xylophone, a barefoot path, an animal long jump, and raised path through a mysterious bog. Trail starts and ends at the Sihl river, where there are lots of picnic areas and a playground.

Moderate • 2 k • 80m up/down

See details for Sihlwald hike

See also bike paths which are also great for walking: 10 Safe Places for Bike with Kids in Switzerland.

Map of Zürich spring hikes