The best walks and hikes around Rifferswil
4.6
(3803)
28,166
hikers
1,141
hikes
Hiking around Rifferswil offers diverse landscapes shaped by glacial activity, featuring drumlin and moraine formations. The region is characterized by the Sihltobel, a gorge with partly forested and rocky steep walls composed of Nagelfluh rock, where the Sihl River flows. This area includes the Sihlsprung, known for its clear water and boulders. Nearby, Lake Türler provides a natural feature for outdoor excursions.
Best hiking trails around Rifferswil
- The most popular hiking route is Zipperntrüble Spring – Kappel Abbey loop from…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.7
(7)
27
hikers
14.2km
04:16
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
29
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(9)
17
hikers
6.67km
01:44
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
17
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
hikers
4.60km
01:13
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
My favorite barbecue spot for 30 years. Used to ride up there with the Vespa, then with the eBike and nowadays more often on foot. Top view of Lake Zug.
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The origins of the monastery complex date back to the 12th century and can be broadly divided into four periods: the monastic era until the Reformation (1185-1527), the period of the bailiffs (1541-1803), the poorhouse (1836-1981), and the seminar hotel and educational center (since 1983). In the immediate vicinity of the monastery, the "Miichsuppenstein" (a stone used to mark the end of the monastery) and the battle monument commemorate the two Kappel Wars of 1529 and 1531. There is a Monastery Cafe which is open Tue - Sun 8am Till 10pm.
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The Albishorn is one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the Albis ridge. At 909 meters, it offers sweeping views of Lake Zurich, the mountains of Central Switzerland, and the Reppisch Valley. The ascent is easy to moderate and leads mostly through forest before opening up to a summit with panoramic views. It's ideal for a short, enjoyable hike – often combined with a visit to Hochwacht or Felsenegg.
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Steep transition from the Säuliamt into the Sihl valley, the Schnabelburg castle nearby oversaw this in ancient times.
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The Schnabellücken is an old mountain pass crossing the Albis at an altitude of 803 meters. Hikers can choose between five trails here.
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A very beautiful place, especially during the week, with very few hikers. The scenery is very beautiful.
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The Albis chain is a striking, largely forested mountain ridge that runs parallel to the Sihl and Lake Zurich from Sihlbrugg to Urdorf / Schlieren. It is flanked by two valleys, the Sihl valley in the east and the Reppisch valley in the west. The eastern flank of the Albis is steep, characterized by ridges, deep ditches and numerous streams. It is geomorphologically extremely active, sparsely populated and largely covered by the Sihl forest. The western side is less steep and has an unusually strong interweaving of forest and grassland on steep slopes for the Central Plateau. Here, the interaction between site conditions and human use has led to diverse, sometimes rare habitats.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Rifferswil?
There are over 1,100 hiking trails around Rifferswil, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. More than 640 of these are considered easy, 480 moderate, and 35 difficult.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners or families in Rifferswil?
Yes, Rifferswil offers over 640 easy hiking routes perfect for beginners or families. An excellent choice is the View of the Zwingli Monument – Kappel Abbey loop from Kappel am Albis, a 4.1-mile (6.6 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 44 minutes to complete.
What natural features can I expect to see while hiking in Rifferswil?
The region is shaped by glacial activity, featuring distinctive drumlin and moraine formations. A highlight is the Sihltobel, a gorge with steep, rocky walls and the Sihlsprung, where the Sihl River flows with crystal-clear water around massive boulders and small waterfalls. Lake Türler is also a pleasant natural spot nearby.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Rifferswil area?
Yes, many routes around Rifferswil are circular. For example, the Zipperntrüble Spring – Kappel Abbey loop from Kappel am Albis is a moderate 8.8-mile (14.2 km) loop, and the Albishorn Mountain Restaurant – View of Lake Zug loop from Hausen am Albis offers scenic views on a 7.3-mile (11.7 km) loop.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Rifferswil?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Rifferswil, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from glacial formations to the unique Sihltobel gorge, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various difficulty levels.
Are there any historical landmarks or attractions to explore near the hiking trails?
Yes, the region has several historical sites. You can explore the Schnabelburg ruins or the Wildenburg Ruins. The Huwiler Tower is another notable historical site worth visiting.
Can I find hikes with views of Lake Zug or the Alps?
Absolutely. The Albishorn Mountain Restaurant – View of Lake Zug loop from Hausen am Albis offers stunning vistas towards Lake Zug. Another route, the View of the Alps and Lake Zug – Gallows Field with Pond loop from Mettmenstetten, provides panoramic views of both the Alps and Lake Zug.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the Sihlsprung area within the Sihltobel gorge is known for its small waterfalls fed by side streams. Hiking trails in this area offer a chance to see these natural water features as the Sihl River flows through the impressive gorge.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Rifferswil?
Rifferswil offers hiking opportunities throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is ideal for enjoying Lake Türler. Even in winter, some trails are suitable, though conditions can vary, so checking local weather is always recommended.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known trails in Rifferswil?
The Rifferswil area is recognized for offering '20 hidden gems' for exploration. While specific routes vary, exploring the less-trafficked paths within the Sihltobel or around Lake Türler can lead to unique discoveries away from the more popular trails.
Is public transport available to reach hiking trailheads in Rifferswil?
Yes, Rifferswil is generally well-connected by public transport, making it possible to reach many trailheads without a car. It's advisable to check local bus and train schedules for specific starting points of your chosen hike.
Are there any cafes or restaurants along the hiking routes in Rifferswil?
While specific cafes directly on every trail vary, many routes pass through or near villages like Kappel am Albis or Hausen am Albis, where you can find places to eat or grab a coffee. The Albishorn Mountain Restaurant, for instance, is a feature on one of the popular loops.
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