Trails in the Canton of Schwyz

Cradle of the name Switzerland, the canton of Schwyz stretches from Lake Zurich to the shores of Lake Lucerne. Between the two, the Rigi peaks at 1,798 m and the Mythen raise their two rocky peaks above the town of Schwyz ⛰️. Further east, the Muotathal carves its wild valley all the way to the Pragel pastures.

For a trail run in the canton of Schwyz, the terrain gives no respite. The trails of the Grosser Mythen climb in tight switchbacks over stone steps, while the Rigi ridge unfolds a long balcony facing the summits of the Oberland. In the Muotathal, the paths plunge into the heart of the Bödmeren primeval forest, one of the largest spruce forests in the Alps 🌲. The technical descents demand sure footing, especially after rain, when the limestone becomes slippery. Spring opens up the lower routes, summer frees the summits, and autumn offers crisp light over the lakes.

Finishers' trail calendar does not yet include any race in Schwyz, so the neighboring cantons step in. In Obwalden, the RunThrough Trails Engelberg kicks off in August at the foot of the Titlis 🏔️. In the Bernese Oberland, the Jungfrau Marathon attracts lovers of grand landscapes in September. The Swiss Trail Tour crisscrosses the Simmental at the same time of year. To widen your search, check out the trails in the canton of Lucerne, those in the canton of Zurich or the Trails in Switzerland page.

Schwyz gave its name to Switzerland, and its white cross on a red background inspired the national flag. Another local figure, William Tell is said to have crossed paths with the bailiff Gessler in the sunken lane of Küssnacht 🏹. After your run, an Einsiedler Schafböckli, a brioche filled with almond paste, recharges the batteries. Whether a short steep climb or a big ridge traverse, it's up to you to choose your slope 🏃.