Uetliberg Mountain Hike: The Perfect Day Trip from Zurich
- Stefan
- Nov 17, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 11
Uetliberg Mountain Hike: Perfect day trip
Looking for the perfect day trip near Zurich that combines stunning views, family-friendly amenities, and easy accessibility? The Uetliberg Mountain Hike checks all the boxes. As Zurich's iconic "house mountain," Uetliberg offers an easy hike with incredible views, restaurants, and plenty of spots for relaxation or play. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect adventure.
Why Hike Uetliberg?
Uetliberg is one of the closest escapes into nature from Zurich: great views, good variety of trails, and accessible by public transport.
Easy Public Transport Access
Pram-Friendly Paths
Restaurants Along the Way
Playgrounds for Kids
Breathtaking Views: Panoramic vistas of Zurich, Lake Zurich, and the Alps.
Quick Facts About the Trail
Trail Length: ~6 km
Height Difference: ~200 m
Hiking Time: 80–120 minutes
Peak elevation: Uto Kulm: approx. 871 meters above sea level
Difficulty Level: Easy—perfect for beginners and families
This is one of the most accessible hikes near Zurich, yet it still delivers unforgettable views.
Where is Uetliberg?
Uetliberg is perched just above Zurich, and its distinctive antenna makes it easy to spot from the city. As part of the Albis mountain range, it offers not only stunning views but also a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
How to Get to Uetliberg
By Public Transport
The most convenient way to reach Uetliberg is by taking the S10 train, which departs from:
Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main station)
Selnau station
Binz station
The train journey ends at Uetliberg station, which is just steps from the trailhead and Restaurant Hillz, a great starting point with a playground and observation deck.
💡 Tip: If you have a Zürich Card, the S10 train ride and the return cable car from Felsenegg are both included!
By Car
Driving to Uetliberg isn’t ideal due to limited parking and traffic in Zurich. However, if needed:
Park at Sihlcity Shopping Mall and walk to Binz station (5–10 minutes).
Use Parkhaus Stauffachertor and start your journey from Selnau station.
Alternatively, you can start your hike at Felsenegg, where parking is more accessible, either right at the cable car station or down at the Adliswil train station.
Hiking the Panorama Planet Trail
The Panorama Planet Trail is a well-maintained dirt path along the Uetliberg-Albis ridge, offering:
Restaurants: Restaurant Hillz and Restaurant Felsenegg.
Firepits and Picnic Spots: Perfect for grilling or a scenic picnic.
Playgrounds for Kids: Let your children burn off energy at well-equipped playgrounds.
Scenic Viewpoints: Stop along the trail to take in sweeping views of Zurich, the shimmering lake, and the Alps on clear days.
How to End the Hike
At the end of the trail, you’ll arrive at Felsenegg. From here:
Take the cable car down to Adliswil.
Walk to the Adliswil train station.
Hop on the S4 train back to Zurich Hauptbahnhof.
This route forms a convenient loop, allowing you to experience both the ridge and the valley.
Other Trails to Uetliberg
Here are several trail options with their difficulty levels and features:
Route | Start Point | Difficulty | Highlights & Notes |
Denzlerweg (from Albisgüetli) | Albisgüetli (tram 13 terminus) | Moderate to somewhat steep ascent. Fairly direct. | |
Laternenweg (from Albisgüetli, west side) | Albisgüetli | Moderate | Slightly more gradual than Denzlerweg; better if you want fewer steep bits. |
Hohensteinweg (from Triemli, tram 14 terminus) | Triemli | Moderate to hard | Offers good views; steeper sections. Often used in sledding season. |
Uitikon-Waldegg path | Waldegg parking / Waldegg station | Easy to moderate | Less steep; better for families / those not wanting to climb too sharply. |
Panorama Trail to Felsenegg / Planet Trail | Either from Uetliberg summit, follow ridge trails | Easy to moderate | Very scenic, gradual inclines, well-maintained, good for families; ending with cable car from Felsenegg if desired. |
Tips for Hiking Uetliberg
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Although the trail is easy, good walking shoes will keep you comfortable.
Check the Weather: Clear skies offer the best views of Zurich and the Alps.
Bring Snacks: While restaurants are available, you’ll appreciate a snack break at one of the many picnic spots.
Use a Zürich Card: It simplifies travel costs and includes the train and cable car rides.
If you enjoy day trips, here are my favorites: a trip to Lindau in Germany or a visit to the Chapf viewpoint.
