Trails in the Greater Zurich Area

Zurich isn't the first city that comes to mind for trail running, and that's exactly what makes it interesting 🌲. As soon as you leave the last quays behind, the canton is covered in beech forests and paths that wind between Lake Zurich and the Greifensee. For a trail run in the greater Zurich area, many people start with the Uetliberg, reachable by train from the main station.

The ridges of the Albis and the Zürcher Oberland string together short, steep climbs, with views over the lake and, on clear days, the Alps. The Hörnli, the highest point in the canton at 1,133 m, sets the tone in terms of elevation. The season runs from March to November, with a golden autumn for long outings 🍂, while winter sometimes leaves a bit of snow on the heights.

The Finishers trail calendar doesn't yet list a start in the canton itself, but Central Switzerland is within reach by train or car. The RunThrough Trails Engelberg, at the foot of the Titlis in the canton of Obwalden, takes place on August 20, 2027, about 1.5 hours away by road. Further east, the Madrisa Trail starts from Klosters on August 6, 2027 with courses from 11 to 54 km ⛰️. Each listing details the formats and registration, and the trails in Switzerland page widens the choice even further.

After the effort, locals head to a Badi, those public baths set up on the shore of the lake or river, where you jump straight into the water 💦. This outdoor culture explains why the Uetliberg trails remain busy almost all year round. For a first trail, aim for a short format close to home, then step up to the neighboring Alps depending on your level and your appetite for elevation gain. The pages trails in Zurich and mountain races in the greater Zurich area will help you keep exploring.