The best walks and hikes around Lachen
4.5
(45)
471
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking around Lachen, Switzerland, offers diverse terrain primarily characterized by its location on the shores of Lake Zurich. The region features flat, accessible paths along the waterfront and through local green spaces, with minimal elevation gain. These routes often provide views of the lake and surrounding low-lying areas. The landscape is generally gentle, making it suitable for various activity levels.
Best hiking trails around Lachen
- The most popular hiking route is Aahorn Observation Tower – Lachen Marina loop from Lachen SZ, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 20 minutes to complete. This easy route offers views of Lake Zurich and passes the Aahorn Observation Tower.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Lachen Marina – Wangen-Lachen Airfield loop from Lachen SZ, a moderate 5.4 miles (8.7 km) path. This route explores the lakeside area and extends towards the local airfield, featuring flat terrain.
- Local hikers also love the The Tent, Lachen – Lachen Marina loop from Lachen SZ, a 2.4 miles (3.8 km) trail leading through the Lachen Marina area, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Hiking around Lachen is defined by lakeside paths, local parks, and gentle, flat terrain, making many routes ideal for family friendly hikes Lachen Switzerland. The network offers options for beginner hiking routes Lachen and those seeking easy circular walks Lachen.
- The routes in Lachen are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore Lachen's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
4.0
(2)
85
hikers
5.26km
01:20
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
38
hikers
8.66km
02:13
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
15
hikers
3.84km
00:59
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
2.37km
00:36
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
6.94km
01:46
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Lachen
Tips from the Community
Very nice! The short detour is worthwhile.
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A very beautiful lakeside promenade, easily accessible by bike. The baroque church next door is also worth a visit!
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During an excursion, we had the pleasure of climbing the two onion domes and learning all sorts of interesting and amusing stories about the more than 300-year-old parish church. It is believed that plans from a southern German church were used. This is why the two onion domes seem somewhat foreign in the church landscape of Märchl. The Lachen Parish Church is an outstanding example of a Baroque church building, intended to showcase the beauty of the Catholic faith. The church was built between 1707 and 1710 by Peter and Gabriel Thumb from Vorarlberg and consecrated in 1711. Since then, it has been the unmistakable landmark of Lachen and remains a much-visited place of silent and communal prayer. The following information is intended to introduce you to the mystery of this church space. The Baroque is the Catholic response to the Reformation in the 16th century, carved in stone and wood. Not iconoclasm, but images and colors in abundance. Not a sober focus on the Word, but a magnificent unfolding of the Christian message in images, symbols, and ornaments. The whole person is to be addressed and rise up to God. The Lachner parish church is dedicated to the Holy Cross and celebrates its patron saint's day on the Exaltation of the Cross (September 14th or the second Sunday in September). The external celebration – the Chilbi – has been scheduled a week earlier since the 1940s. The name of the church reflects its artistic program: Jesus on the cross draws all eyes. The upper panel of the high altar depicts Abraham, at God's command, intending to sacrifice his son Isaac. This story from the Old Testament was early on interpreted as referring to the sacrificial death of Christ. A special reminiscence of the cross can be found in the Lachner parish coat of arms (albeit reversed!): a T-shaped cross with a bronze serpent.
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Beautiful place to watch frogs
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Comfortable, relaxed, great view of the water, here you can "calm down" again :-)
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Small water area separated from the lake by tall reeds. Breeding place for various seabirds such as great crested grebes and coots, but also frogs. A wooden footbridge leads over the middle of the water and allows the animals to be observed "from above".
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The small airport is really cool and you can see the little planes up close.
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Benches invite you to linger, two panoramic maps explain the view of towns and mountains all around and you can watch the planes taking off and landing
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Lachen?
Lachen offers a good selection of hiking routes, with over 20 trails recorded on komoot. The majority of these are easy, making the area accessible for many different activity levels.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Lachen?
Yes, Lachen is well-suited for family hikes. The region features gentle, flat terrain along the lakeside and through local parks, making many routes ideal for all ages. An example is the The Tent, Lachen – Lachen Marina loop from Lachen SZ, which is an easy 2.4-mile (3.8 km) trail.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Lachen?
Hiking around Lachen is characterized by lakeside paths, local parks, and generally gentle, flat terrain. Routes often provide views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding low-lying areas, with minimal elevation gain.
Are there any circular walks in Lachen?
Yes, Lachen offers several circular walks. Many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For instance, the Aahorn Observation Tower – Lachen Marina loop from Lachen SZ is a popular easy circular route.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Lachen?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Lachen, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the accessible lakeside paths, the scenic views of Lake Zurich, and the overall ease of the routes, which are suitable for various activity levels.
Are there any longer or more challenging routes for experienced hikers?
While Lachen is primarily known for its easy and moderate trails, there are options for slightly longer walks. The Lachen Marina – Wangen-Lachen Airfield loop from Lachen SZ is a moderate 5.4-mile (8.7 km) path that extends further along the lakeside, offering a longer experience on flat terrain.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along the hiking trails?
Many trails offer views of Lake Zurich. You can also find highlights such as the View of Rapperswil's Old Town and Castle, or explore the Schmerikon — lakeside on Lake Zurich. The Aahorn Observation Tower – Lachen Marina loop from Lachen SZ specifically passes the Aahorn Observation Tower.
Is Lachen accessible by public transport for hikers?
Lachen is generally well-connected by public transport, making it convenient to reach trailheads. The town's location on Lake Zurich means that train and bus services are available, often with stops close to popular starting points for hikes.
Are there any specific recommendations for beginner hikers in Lachen?
Beginner hikers will find Lachen very accommodating. The region's flat terrain and well-maintained paths are ideal for those new to hiking. Routes like the Hiking loop from Lachen SZ are short and easy, perfect for a gentle introduction.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Lachen?
The best time for hiking in Lachen is typically from spring through autumn, when the weather is mild and the lakeside paths are most enjoyable. The gentle nature of the trails also makes them suitable for pleasant walks during cooler shoulder seasons.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Lachen?
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in Switzerland, including around Lachen. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially near wildlife or in populated areas, and to clean up after them. The flat, accessible paths are usually comfortable for dogs.
Are there places to eat or cafes near the hiking spots in Lachen?
Yes, Lachen, being a town on Lake Zurich, offers various dining options. You'll find cafes and restaurants, particularly around the Lachen Marina area, which is a common starting point and passes through several hiking routes. These establishments provide convenient spots for refreshments before or after your hike.
Are there any permits required for hiking in the Lachen region?
No, hiking in the Lachen region does not typically require any special permits. The trails are generally open to the public for recreational use.
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