Snowshoeing in Switzerland

Switzerland has many official snowshoe hiking routes that are sign-posted and marked with purple or pink poles.

In general, these routes are away from high avalanche risk zones and avoid protected nature reserves. 

Snowshoe routes are typically open from mid December to mid March, depending on snow conditions and elevation.

Below you’ll find snowshoe routes we recommend.

See all our snowshoe routes on an interactive map in our Swiss Winter Guide.

Snowshoe Routes

Our favorite snowshoe trails in the Lake Lucerne region, including Engelberg, Mythen Region, Uri Canton, and Obwalden.
Snowshoe routes we like in eastern Switzerland, including Zürich, Heidiland, Glarnerland, and Toggenburg regions.

Snowshoe 101

The best snowshoe trails for beginners in Switzerland, with short distances and easy terrain. Most hikes on this list are near Zürich or Lucerne.
Here’s a guide on how to get started snowshoeing in Switzerland based on our family’s experience, with suggested trails for beginners and tips on how to buy snowshoes, what to wear and how to stay safe.

Browse snowshoe hikes

Short but sporty snowshoe loop with big mountain views and peaceful meadows. Plus an optional 3km sled run after the hike.
Snowshoe hike on the sunny slopes of Amden with spectacular mountain views and quiet forests.
Snowshoe routes we like in eastern Switzerland, including Zürich, Heidiland, Glarnerland, and Toggenburg regions.
Our favorite snowshoe trails in the Lake Lucerne region, including Engelberg, Mythen Region, Uri Canton, and Obwalden.
The best snowshoe trails for beginners in Switzerland, with short distances and easy terrain. Most hikes on this list are near Zürich or Lucerne.
Here’s a guide on how to get started snowshoeing in Switzerland based on our family’s experience, with suggested trails for beginners and tips on how to buy snowshoes, what to wear and how to stay safe.
Escape the crowds on this scenic snowshoe hike near Interlaken, with spectacular views of Lake Brienz and mountain hut for refreshments.
Short and easy snowshoe loop through open meadows with mountain views and some shady forest. Good for beginners.
Short snowshoe hike through pretty forests and alpine meadows at a tiny mountain resort near Lucerne with many dramatic peaks in view.
Short snowshoe loop through sunny meadows with mountain views leading to a restaurant.
Beautiful snowshoe hike through peaceful landscape to Spitzmeilen mountain hut near Flumserberg ski resort.
Easy downhill snowshoe hike leading to a mountain restaurant with a sunny terrace and panorama views.

Subscribers may login below. At the moment, membership is by invite only.