This easy forest walk leads to a tall observation tower where you get panorama views across Zürich canton. I suggest going by public transportation, starting with a fun ride on the Dolderbahn funicular. Most of the walk is through dense forest, nice for a hot summer day or in late October for the fall colors. The path is easy walking and suitable for strollers. This is a nice short nature walk for those living in Zürich.
| Location: | Zürich Adlisberg, Eastern Switzerland |
| By car: | Adlisbergstrasse 35, 8044 Zürich 12 mins from Zürich city center |
| By transport: | Funicular station: Bergstation Dolderbahn 20 mins from Zürich HB |
| Trail: | 4 km loop, about 1hr15 |
| Elevation: | 460m up, 490m down, highest point 697 m |
| Condition: | walking path, strollers ok |
| Difficulty: | easy (1 of 5) |
| Open: | year round, weather dependent |
| Cost 2021: | if coming by public transport: Zürich day pass CHF 8.80 SBB GA, Half-fare & Junior Cards accepted. |
| Services: | picnic areas with fire pits, water fountains |
| More info: | nearby webcam |
Location
This hike is located in the forest east of Zürich city, accessible by car or public transport.
Trail map
There are many paths through the forest, so feel free to take another route. I’ve mapped out the easiest route leading from the top of the Dolderbahn funicular directly to the observation tower. If you come by car, just join the trail near the parking. The path is wide dirt/gravel, suitable for strollers.
See trail map on SchweizMobil • Komoot • AllTrails • OutdoorActive
Longer option: On SchweizMobil, you find the Lorenchopf-Weg, a one way 9km route from Rigiblick to Fällanden.
Getting there
By public transport: From Zürich city, take tram 3, 8 or 11 to Römerhof. Then ride the Dolderbahn funicular to the end of the line at Bergstation Dolderbahn. Start the trail here.
By car: Drive to Adlisbergstrasse 35, 8044 Zürich and park in the metered parking near the golf driving range and Dolderbahn ice rink.
Tickets & operating times
If you are riding public transport to reach this trail, you’ll need a Zürich city public transport ticket. It does not cost extra to ride the Dolderbahn funicular. In 2021, a day pass for Zürich city costs CHF 8.80. Discount for SBB GA, Half-fare cards and children. Kids under 6 and those with SBB Junior card ride free.
The Dolderbahn runs daily about every 10 mins from 6:20 to 23:30.
Photo story of trail
If you come by car, Bergstation Dolderbahn.
At the Zürich Römerhof tram station, walk over to the Dolderbahn station and board the red funicular train. This is covered by the Zürich day pass. You don’t need an extra ticket to ride. It runs about every 10 mins.
Exit the funicular at the end of the line, Bergstation Dolderbahn. Start by following the path along the road towards the Dolder Kunsteisbahn.
Then turn right onto the forest path as shown here.
Turn left on Hans-Roelli-Weg, which will lead through the forest to the observation tower. You might also see signs to Lorenchopf or Loorenchopf (it’s spelled differently on various signs and maps).
The forest path is basically the same the whole way, just dense forest. Go with a friend so you can chat or listen to a podcast.
At the end of the loop, you’ll find the Loorenkopf tower and some picnic areas.
It’s 152 steps to the top, a bit of a workout.
At the top of the tower, you’ll find a safely enclosed observation deck where you can enjoy 360° views.
There are a few mountain maps showing all the peaks you can see from this tower.
Even on this semi-cloudy day, we could see so many mountains from here. Such an impressive view.
Fun perspective looking down from the tower.
Enjoy the view then climb back down the tower.
Another picnic area next to the tower.
On the way back, follow signs for Weiherholzstr and loop back to the Dolderbahn.
There was a fountain along this path and one near the tower.
