4.6
(9174)
67,215
hikers
676
hikes
Hiking around Lauerzersee, situated between the Rigi and Rossberg mountains in Switzerland, features a diverse landscape for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by significant moorland areas, particularly between Goldau and Lauerz, which developed after the 1806 Goldau landslide. This unique environment combines a lake landscape with extensive reed meadows and geological traces of the landslide, offering varied terrain for hikers. The lake itself, a natural retention basin, provides a picturesque setting with views of the surrounding mountains.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
3.9
(38)
247
hikers
10.8km
02:51
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(35)
240
hikers
10.9km
02:52
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.1
(7)
29
hikers
18.0km
04:47
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
34
hikers
14.2km
05:34
950m
950m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
7.27km
02:11
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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It's nice that the restaurant is heated and that they have almond croissants and cold Ovomaltine. That gives me renewed energy for the descent to the saddle.
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Railway junction. The COOP store (open until 10 pm) has a large selection and a covered seating area for coffee etc.
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From here you have a good view of both islands: "Schwanau", the larger one with the castle ruins and a restaurant, and the "small Schwanau".
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Schwanau Island – a small island with castle ruins and a restaurant. An island boat taxi will take you to and from the island. Please note the departure times.
1
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Beautiful viewpoint with panoramic views and mountain panorama panels.
10
2
A beautiful destination. Even when the mountain inn is closed, a small kiosk is open on some days.
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It's worth it, beautiful views, unfortunately I had fog and rain
4
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Arth – Goldau Station Goldau Becomes a Railway Junction On June 4, 1875, the Arth-Rigi Railway (ARB) began operations. Goldau's first small station, built behind the Pfrundhaus (parsonage), served travelers from Einsiedeln. However, until then, the idea was to bypass Goldau and build the Gotthard Railway station in Oberarth. Blasting work began a few weeks after the ARB opened. The plan was for a 2.5 km long tunnel to lead beneath the landslide area to Steinen. However, the development favored Goldau. In May 1876, work on the tunnel had to be halted due to a lack of funds. Various cost-saving measures were explored, one of which was to abandon the tunnel and build a station in the middle of the rubble area. The ARB Goldau station had to be relocated next to the Gotthard Railway line and received financial compensation for this. Diplomatically, the new station was named "Arth-Goldau." Construction work progressed rapidly, and in 1882 the line through the Gotthard to Italy was opened. Things followed quickly: In August 1891, the Südostbahn (Southeastern Railway) to the outer part of the canton of Schwyz was put into operation, and in June 1897, the line to Zug and Zurich opened. Goldau had become a railway junction with five railway lines leading in different directions. The Arth-Rigi Railway built the raised platform that still exists today in 1895. From 1897 to 1959, a tram ran from Arth to Goldau. The former tram line is still called the "Tramweg" (Tramway) and is a beautiful walking path between the three villages of Goldau, Oberarth, and Arth. The railway had a major influence on Goldau's development. The population grew rapidly. Many railway workers and SBB employees, such as locomotive drivers and conductors, moved to Goldau – and stayed. Population growth also led to construction development, until Goldau "overtook" the village of Arth. Yesterday and today, the railway and the train station play a major role in Goldau. While it was once the "railroad workers" who value the Arth-Goldau railway junction, today it is the "commuters" who appreciate it. Text / Source: Municipality of Arth, Town Hall, 6415 Arth https://www.arth.ch/geschichte/4254
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The Lauerzersee region offers an extensive network of hiking trails, with over 680 routes recorded on komoot. These include a wide range of difficulties, from 211 easy paths to 325 moderate trails and 145 more challenging routes, ensuring options for all fitness levels.
Hiking around Lauerzersee offers a diverse landscape shaped by its unique geology. You'll encounter nationally important moorland areas, particularly between Goldau and Lauerz, which developed after the 1806 Goldau landslide. The trails also provide stunning views of the surrounding Rigi and Rossberg mountains, and picturesque paths along the shores of Lake Lauerz itself.
Yes, the region has paths suitable for children and families. Many lakeside trails are relatively flat and offer easy walking. For example, the path from Lauerz to the Goldau Zoo is known to be family-friendly. You can also find many easy routes among the 211 available on komoot.
Yes, there are several circular routes that allow you to experience the beauty of Lake Lauerz. A popular option is the Lauerz Lakeside Bath loop from Lauerz, which is a moderate 6.9 km trail offering pleasant views of the lake.
The region is rich in natural and historical landmarks. The unique moorland landscape between Goldau and Lauerz, a result of the 1806 Goldau landslide, is a significant natural reserve. You can also visit Schwanau Island in Lake Lauerz, accessible by ferry, which offers a tranquil walk and historical insights. Many trails also provide scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails around Lauerzersee. However, it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserves like the moorlands, to protect wildlife and sensitive ecosystems. Always carry water for your dog and be mindful of local regulations.
The trails around Lauerzersee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 8,800 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the serene lake views to the impressive mountain backdrops, and the unique natural features like the moorlands and traces of the Goldau landslide. The well-maintained paths and variety of routes for different skill levels are also often highlighted.
Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the mountainous surroundings of Lauerzersee, particularly the Rigi and Rossberg regions, offer demanding routes. An example is the Wildspitz Summit – Wildspitz Mountain Inn loop from Steinerberg, a difficult 14.3 km trail with significant elevation gain, typically taking over 5 hours to complete.
Yes, Lake Lauerz offers refreshing bathing opportunities. You can find designated areas like the Chalchofen Bathing Meadow and the Lauerz Lakeside Bath. Some of these spots also provide amenities such as barbecue areas and playgrounds, perfect for a post-hike relaxation.
The Lauerzersee region is generally well-connected by public transport. Goldau, a key access point, has a train station. From there, local buses can take you to various starting points around the lake and into the surrounding villages. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for specific trailheads.
Yes, several routes provide excellent vistas of the impressive Grosser Mythen. A notable option is the View of Grosser Mythen – Goldiseeli loop from Lauerz, a moderate 18.1 km path that offers expansive views of the mountain and explores the area around Goldiseeli.
The Lauerzersee region is beautiful year-round, but the best time for hiking generally spans from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is mild and trails are clear. Summer offers opportunities for swimming in the lake, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Winter hiking is possible on lower-altitude paths, but higher mountain routes may require special equipment and experience due to snow and ice.


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