In Switzerland, Pentecost Monday (Pfingsten) is a public holiday, falling on 25 May 2026 this year. The long weekend is one of the busier travel periods in Switzerland and across much of Europe.
If you want to hike this weekend, it can be a little tricky as late May can still be unpredictable in the mountains, with lingering snow at higher elevations.
So below is our curated list of hikes and activities for the Pfingsten weekend, all suitable for day trips from Zurich or Lucerne.
Contents
What to expect during Pfingsten
On Pfingsten weekend, most regular businesses and stores are closed. But most restaurants and leisure activities are open.
Many mountain destinations also operate limited services for the holiday weekend, even if the full summer season has not yet started. Check the relevant websites carefully for exactly what’s open.
For each suggestion below, I’ve checked the lift operating times, webcams and trail status to make sure they are open. But please double check, as weather conditions can change opening times.
Weather forecast for Pfingsten weekend
The current forecast is sunny and hot for the whole weekend. Remember that weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains. So double check the forecast and webcams shortly before your outing. We like meteo.search.ch.
Hiking conditions
I’ve checked the status of the trails mentioned below and all should be open. But conditions can change quickly. So please use common sense and good judgement when choosing a trail and ask the ticket office about the trail conditions.
Some trails are not recommended after rain, as mud and slippery rocks can make conditions dangerous. If you encounter unsafe conditions, best to turn back.
On mountain trails, you may encounter some snow, which can be dangerous as it is melting. So make sure to stay on the marked trail and carefully follow instructions you encounter at the lift stations or along the trail, especially regarding trail closures, landslides and avalanche warnings.
Alpine Flowers & Meadow Wanders
The alpine meadows are bursting with wildflowers, a great time to do countryside wanders. Here are a few of our favorites.
1. Seewis wildflower trail
The narcissus flowers are blooming now in Seewis, a small village near Klosters. They had their Narcissusfest last weekend, so now is your last change to see the blooms.
If you follow the instructions in my post, you can skip the tough climb and drive directly to the good stuff (must purchase permit to drive on private road).
Hike stats: Easy • 1.25 h • 3.2 k • 130m up/down
See details for Seewis wildflower trail
2. Illgau Countryside Wander
This hike wanders through the peaceful alpine meadows near the sleepy village Illgau. You start with a tiny cable car (closed at lunch!), then traverse the alp, passing by cute farmhouses and many fields filled with flowers in spring.
Trail: Moderate • 2 h • 6.7 k loop • +214m -578m
See trail info for Illgau Countryside Wander
3. Morgartenberg viewpoint
This unassuming trail leads to Morgartenberg, a lovely viewpoint across the countryside near Sattel. Lots of wildflowers in the valley and on the alp. No mountain transport needed, so it’s free.
Trail: Moderate • 3 h • 9.6 k loop • +410m -410m
See trail info for Morgartenberg hike
Hikes for panorama views
4. Mythenrundreise
Starting near the iconic Mythen peaks shown here, this popular trail rambles across the mountains to Sattel Hochstückli.
The views are fantastic with green valleys, rolling hills, and lakes. It’s a long walk, but not super difficult. Playgrounds at both ends are a good reward for the kids.
Hike stats: Moderate • 3.5 h • 10 k • 270m up, 660m down
More info for Mythenrundreise
5. Rigi Panorama Trail
The snow is all melted at Rigi and the meadows all bright green, ready for exploring. The Rigi Panorama Trail is one of our favorites, with spectacular views of the lakes and mountains across the Lucerne region.
The full Panorama Trail is about 3 hours. If you prefer a shorter hike, try the Rigi Lake View Trail that still visits the cliff walk, but is half the time.
For a longer day, you could do the Classic Rigi Round Trip, starting with a lake cruise to the mountain.
Hike stats: Easy • 3 h • 8.2 k • 230m up, 320m down
Get the details for the Mount Rigi Panorama trail
6. Amden Höhenweg
Ride a chair lift up then traverse the mountain, hiking through a lush moor and forest and over rolling hills often filled with cows. All the while you enjoy views of many mountains surrounding this area.
The Amden webcams shows this area clear of snow, but you may find a couple patches in the shady spots along the trail.
Hike stats: Moderate • 2.5 h • 8.5 k • 280m up/down
See hiking map & directions for Amden Höhenweg
Peak & Ridges
If you want to climb a peak, make sure to pick a lower elevation one with sunny exposure so you don’t encounter snow & ice. Here are a couple options for spring.
7. Grosser Mythen peak
This trail hikes to the top of the Grosser Mythen peak, with spectacular views across the Lake Lucerne region.
It’s a steep climb on rocky switchbacks to the top, best for experienced hikers with sure footing. At the top, there is a small partially fenced observation area and a mountain hut serving drinks, cakes, and simple meals.
According to their website, both the trail and restaurant at the top are open.
Hike: Challenging • 2 h • 3.5 k • 410m up & down
Learn more about Grosser Mythen peak hike
8. Chli Aubrig
You don’t need a gondola for this one. Just drive to the Sattelegg mountain pass (sorry no bus), then climb through fields and forest to the Chli Aubrig peak. From the peak, you can enjoy panorama views across rolling hills, a lake and many mountain peaks.
Usually this trail is a loop. But the second half of the trail can get really boggy after rain. So you may prefer to just go up and back. If you encounter any snow patches, definitely turn back, it’s too risky.
Hike: Moderate • 3 h • 9.5 k • 400m up/down
See details for Chli Aubrig Hike
9. Jura Crest Trail – Lägeren Ridge near Baden
No gondola on this trail, just a steep climb from the charming town of Baden to a ridge overlooking the beautiful Swiss countryside. This is particularly nice in spring when many of the fields are bright yellow as shown here.
It has a lot of tricky footing on the climb, particularly on the top of the ridge with slanted rock slabs. It makes for an interesting and engaging trail to walk, but better for experienced hikers that can easily manage uneven terrain. The second half of the trail is in a lovely forest on more reasonable dirt paths.
Hike: Challenging • 4 h • 12.6 k • 584m up, 840m down
Learn more about the Lägern Ridge Trail
Lakes for a picnic
Ride a chair lift up the mountain to a nice playground and mountain restaurant. Then short hike to a quiet alpine lake with mountain views, picnic area and café. Optionally add-on a 6 km scooter ride back down the mountain.
10. Talalpsee
The Talpalpsee is a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by mountains south of Zurich. After riding the self-labeled “slowest chair lift in Switzerland” (I can confirm!), it’s a short hike to the lake where you’ll find nice picnic areas around the lake shore.
The chair lift is open for Pfingsten weekend. The mountain scooters, restaurant and playground are should be open as well.
Hike stats: Easy • 1.5 h • 4.4 k • 180m up/down
Learn about Talalpsee
11. Näfels Obersee
If you don’t mind driving up a narrow winding mountain road, this lake is a great place for a stroll and picnic. You can park right next to the lake, no long hike necessary to enjoy the views.
Trail: Easy • 1 h • 2.7 k loop • +20m -20m
Learn more about Näfels Obersee
12. Oeschinensee
Although the higher trails are still closed (do not hike the Panorama trail yet, avalanche danger!), the gondola is running and the path to the Oeschinensee lake is open.
This is a great place for a picnic with a spectacular view. Or make a reservation for the restaurant and relax under the shady umbrellas. The summer toboggan is running.
Hike: easy • 90 mins round trip • 4 km • 110m up & down
Learn more about visiting Oeschinensee
13. Klöntalersee
You can drive directly to this lake (or take the bus), which makes it a good budget option. The water level might be a little low this early in the season. But that means even more room to spread out on the lakeshore for a picnic.
If you want to hike, you can ride the bus to the far side of the lake and walk back. But it can be a little chilly in the shade.
Optional Trail: easy • 2h15 • 6.5 km one way • +17m -28m
See details for Klöntalersee
Waterfalls
14. Stäuben Falls
In spring, it’s an easy walk along a river to reach this powerful waterfall. Lots of green meadows and wildflowers to enjoy along the way. Near the falls, there is a restaurant and nice picnic area with tables.
Once the snow melts, you can do a longer hike in the mountains above the falls before reaching the main event.
Hike: easy • 2 hours there & back • 6.25 km • 200 m up/down
See details for Stäuben falls and trail map for easy version
15. Walensee & Seerenbach Falls
The Seerenbach waterfalls are running big and beautiful now that the snow is melting.
The falls are easy to reach, with boat ride and a short hike through alpine meadows along the Walensee lake. Then hike back the way you came and stop at the restaurant near the ferry dock for refreshments.
Or you can keep hiking on a longer trail through the forest to Quinten, where there are restaurants on the lakeshore. Then you can take the ferry back from there.
Location: Trail starts in Bettlis, where you can park. Or start in Walen and take the boat.
Trail: easy • 3.5 km round trip from Betlis • 110m up and down
See details for Walensee hike
16. Berschner Falls
It’s a short hike up a rushing river to reach the dramatic Berschner Falls, about 46m tall. On the way there, you’ll passing several smaller waterfalls and nice picnic spots where you can build a fire.
Hike stats: Easy • 1 h • 2.75 k • 200m up/down
Location: Parking at Schulhausstrasse 4-8 8892 Walenstadt / Bus at Berschis, Unterdorf
See hiking map & directions for Berschner Falls
17. Lake Lucerne Waldstätterweg
The Waldstätterweg is a multi-stage trail around the top half of Lake Lucerne. We’ve done several stages this spring. Any would be lovely for this weekend.
Stage 7 from Beckenried to Treib includes two big waterfalls, dense forest, lush meadows and mountain views. At the end of your hike, ride a ferry back to your starting point.
Hike stats: Moderate • 3.5 h • 10.5 k • 410m up, 370m down
Location: Beckenried
See hiking map & directions for Waldstätterweg
18. Weisstannen Falls
You can drive directly to this beautiful spot with several waterfalls spilling off the cliff walls on both sides of this valley. Just set up your picnic where you like. Perhaps bring some lawn games for entertainment.
See directions to Weisstannen Falls
Fun for kids
19. Illgau Ladybug Trail
This cute trail follows ladybugs painted on the ground through alpine fields and forests. There are two playgrounds and picnic areas with grills and lots of mountain views.
This is a definitely a locals-only place, so usually not the big crowds you might see elsewhere.
The website says the cable car is running, trail is open, and the picnic areas are stocked with wood for grilling.
Hike: Easy • 1 hour one way • 2.7 km • 350m descent
See hiking map & directions for Chäferliweg
20. Brunni Engelberg Playground & Treasure Hunt Trail
The Brunni mountain is on the sunny side of Engelberg, with no snow visible on the webcams.
According the website, most everything at Brunnis open: alpine playground, summer toboggan, barefoot path, treasure hunt trail.
I’d go early to beat some of the crowds, spending the first part of the day at the Ristis playground. Then ride the chair lift up to the Tickle Trail and hike back along the Brunnipfad panorama trail (same as the Globine Treasure Hunt Trail), suitable for small children.
Hike: easy • 3 km • 90 mins • all downhill
Learn more about Brunni Tickle Trail and Treasure Hunt Trails
21. Sattel Hochstuckli Playland & Goat Adventure Trail
Sattel Hochstuckli has a big amusement center with bouncy castles, summer toboggan and suspension bridge.
They also have a nice panorama hike that includes fun goat-related activities along the trail. The trail is lovely, dipping in and out of the forest, with frequent views across lakes, valleys and mountains.
For Pfingsten weekend, everything is open: play area with bouncy castles, toboggan, suspension bridge, and panorama trail. However the tubing slide is closed until June.
Hike: moderate • 2 hrs round trip • 5 km • 110m up and down
Learn more about Sattel Hochstuckli Playland and Goat trail
22. Toggenburg Tone Trail
The Toggenburg Klangweg is the gold standard when it comes to theme trails for children. Every few minutes along the trail, you’ll find a different interactive musical activity where kids can make of noise.
Although the trail is only 6 km (and can be shorter), we usually spend all day there, playing at every station and grilling our lunch. The trail is pretty easy, but could be tiring for small children. There is a stroller version of the trail but it skips some of the activities.
The website says all the lifts are open for this Pfingsten weekend. The higher elevation trails here still have snow. So stick to the tone trail.
Tone trail: 6 km one way (return with bus) • about 3 hrs with kids • 120m up & down • stroller options
See details for Toggenburg Tone Trail
23. Holzweg Theme Trail
This forest trail has 20+ wooden installations along the 4.8 km trail, including 21 Japanese-inspired red gates.
At the start of the trail, you can explore the ruins of a castle. In the middle, there’s a playground and a nice picnic area with fire pits, wood, and tables.
It’s at a low elevation and does not require a gondola, so perfect for spring.
Hike: moderate • 2 hours • 4.7 km loop • 220 m up/down
Learn more about the Holzweg
Leisurely bike rides
24. Griefensee lake bike ride
The Pfäffikersee is a beautiful lake near Zurich with a protected nature preserve along much of the lakeshore. There is a great path around the lake for walking or biking.
There are some fun distractions for the kids along the way, including Jucker Farm and lakeside playground in Pfäffikon.
Bike route: easy • 1h • 11km loop • +70m -70m
Learn more about Pfäffikersee bike ride
25. Lake Lucerne Bike to Lake Sarnen
Starting in Lucerne, this bike route rides along Lake Lucerne then winds its way through countryside, leading to the sparkling Lake Sarnen, framed by cute villages and dramatic mountain peaks.
For a short ride, ride the train with your bike back to your starting point. For a longer ride, you can loop around the Sarnensee and/or ride back to Lucerne. On our last visit, we did a 70km loop with eBikes.
Bike route: Moderate • 2h • 32.7 k one way • +260m -260m
Learn more about the Lake Lucerne Bike Ride to Sarnensee
26. Bike around Lake Zug
Enjoy views of Mt Rigi and many other pretty peaks and meadows on this scenic ride around the Zugersee, a large lake between Lucerne and Zürich.
While most of the ride has bike lanes or bike paths separate from traffic, there are few sections with no bike lanes and fast car traffic. I have alternatives below if you prefer a safer route.
Bike route: easy • 2h30 • 37km loop • +210m -210m
Learn more about Lake Zug Bike Ride
27. Alsace France Vineyard bike tour
You’ll love this enchanting bike path that meanders through picturesque vineyards and charming villages nestled in the Alsace region, on the border of France and Germany.
This idyllic route offers an ideal day trip or weekend retreat for those in Switzerland, conveniently located just an hour drive from Basel.
This well-signed route is composed of dedicated bike paths, bike lanes, and quiet country lanes with minimal traffic. We did a long loop with E-Bikes, but you can easily shorten the route as necessary for your crew. Along the way, you can stop in the villages for refreshments and a short wander through the cobble stone streets.
Learn more about the Alsace Bike Tour
28. Reichenau Island bike tour (near Konstanz Germany)
This lovely bike ride near the Swiss/Germany border meanders through country meadows along a lake, leading to a quiet island. There are many restaurants, picnic spots, and swimming areas along the way, so you can make a full day of it.
This route is safe for families, mostly on dedicated bike paths and quiet country lanes. We rode E-Bikes but the route is so flat and easy, you could do this with regular bikes as well.
Learn more about the Reichenau Island bike tour
Sporty activities
29. Pilatus Rope Adventure Park
The Pilatus rope park has already been open for a few weeks, a good choice for this weekend or anytime this summer. They have courses for young and old and exciting features like a free-fall drop and long zip lines.
You have fantastic views of the Pilatus mountain and Lake Lucerne. There’s also an alpine slide at the same location for even more fun.
If you visit the Pilatus viewpoint, be aware that the trails at the top are still covered in snow.
See details for Pilatus rope park
30. Atzmännig leisure park
If you want something fun relatively close to Zürich, Atzmännig has everything you need. There’s a big ropes adventure park with zip lines, free fall, tarzan swing, and a mini course for little kids.
Plus an alpine slide and lots of play equipment, some coin operated. And a lovely hike around the mountain if you want more exercise.
Everything is open at Atzmännig this weekend, including the trails. Check status.
See details for Atzmännig
31. Zurich Kloten Climbing Park
This ropes course is so close to the city, but in a quiet forest, so you feel far away from the busy streets.
It has a wide variety of courses, most suitable for kids aged 8+, also with smaller courses for kids aged 4 to 7. The obstacles are creative, challenging, and sometimes scary!
Location: Schluefweg 10 8302 Kloten
Reserve a spot on their website.
Learn more about Zurich Kloten Seilpark
Mountain viewpoints (no hike)
If skies are clear, you might be able to catch some nice views from these mountain tops.
32. Stanserhorn
This mountain has some of the best views in central Switzerland. To reach the top, you ride a vintage funicular then a cable car where you can stand in the open air on the roof.
For this last weekend in May, you can still get the discounted “Good Morning Ticket” for travel before 9:30 am. You can optionally add on breakfast at the rotating restaurant.
There is short wander at the top, with a nice picnic area and grill. If you want to eat the restaurant, I suggest a reservation for this holiday weekend. You should also book your mountain transport in advance so you don’t have to wait in line.
See details for Stanserhorn
33. Hoher Kasten
This mountain is located in the Appenzell region of Eastern Switzerland. At the top of the cable car, there is rotating restaurant and large panorama terrace where you can enjoy views of the Alpstein mountain range.
The trails from the top are usually ready in mid June.
Learn more about visiting Hoher Kasten
