Ultra-Trails in the canton of Schwyz

In the heart of Switzerland, the canton of Schwyz forms an essential link between the Zurich plateau and the Alps. Its ridges follow one another from the Rigi to the Mythen, then drop toward the Muotathal, a valley known for its immense underground network, the Hölloch 🕳️. The Lake Lauerz and the Rothenthurm marshes add variety to the scenery.

For an ultra-trail in the canton of Schwyz, it all comes down to endurance. The loops linking Einsiedeln, the Sihlsee and the Ybrig pastures easily exceed 80 km without ever leaving the trails. The cumulative elevation gain adds up quickly, especially as the climbs of the Rigi and the Mythen demand fresh legs. Summer and early autumn are the best periods, with mild nights that invite headlamp outings 🌙. Water points are found regularly in the villages and at the alpine pastures, which makes the logistics of long days easier. Summer thunderstorms break quickly at altitude, so it's best to keep an eye on the sky from late morning.

The ultra-trail calendar for Schwyz is empty for the moment on Finishers, but great long formats exist elsewhere. In Engelberg, the RunThrough Trails Engelberg offers a big format in August at the foot of the Titlis. In the Bernese Oberland, the Eiger Ultra-Trail by UTMB® attracts runners from around the world in July 🏔️. Graubünden hosts the Swiss Irontrail in June. For more ideas, browse the ultra-trails in the canton of Lucerne, those of the canton of St. Gallen or the Ultra-Trails in Switzerland page.

Long outings often pass through Einsiedeln, where the Benedictine abbey watches over an ancient pilgrimage route, the Via Jacobi 🙏. Another local pride is the Klausjagen of Küssnacht, where processions of illuminated headdresses parade every December 5th. Whether it's your first 80 km or a full crossing, the Schwyz terrain helps you build your endurance 🎯.