When the air turns crisp and the trees start wearing shades of gold and crimson, Switzerland becomes a hiker’s dreamland. Autumn here is quiet, colorful, and soul-soothing — a time when every lake mirrors the fiery forest around it, and the trails feel like secret paths made just for you.

Here are three breathtaking hikes that perfectly capture the magic of the Swiss fall season 🍁

🏞️ 1. Klöntalersee – Autumn Reflections in Glarus

Hidden in the Glarus Alps, Klöntalersee is a turquoise lake surrounded by steep cliffs and golden forests. In autumn, it looks like a living painting — the kind that makes you stop every few steps just to breathe it in.

Why go in autumn: fewer crowds, crystal-clear reflections, and a peaceful, almost meditative vibe.

How to get there:
Take the train to Glarus, then bus 504 to Klöntal, Rhodannenberg. The trail begins right by the lake.

The cost: From Lucerne, the round trip to Klöntalersee by train and bus costs about CHF 45–55 (or around CHF 25 with Half Fare Card).
With the Swiss Travel Pass, the full journey — train to Glarus and bus to Klöntal — is included.

If you’re driving, parking near the lake costs about CHF 5–10/day, and visiting Klöntalersee itself is free of charge.

Hike tip:
Walk the circular path around the lake (around 10 km). It’s mostly flat and perfect for a relaxed half-day hike. Bring a thermos with hot tea — there’s nothing better than sipping it while watching the mist rise from the water.

🌲 2. Lago di Saoseo – The Enchanted Blue of Val da Camp

Some places don’t look real — and Lago di Saoseo, tucked deep in the Poschiavo valley, is one of them. The lake’s electric-blue color against the fiery larch trees makes it one of the most photogenic places in Switzerland during autumn.

How to get there:
Take the train to Poschiavo, then the PostBus to Sfazu. From there, follow the marked trail (about 1 hour 15 min uphill) to Lago di Saoseo.

Hike tip:
Go early in the morning for mirror-like reflections and bring layers — the air gets chilly at 2000 meters. You can continue to Lagh da Val Viola for a longer, 3-hour loop with incredible alpine views.

The cost: From Lucerne, the round trip to Sfazù (for Lago di Saoseo) by train and bus costs around CHF 80–90 (or about CHF 45 with Half Fare Card).
With the Swiss Travel Pass, the entire trip — train + postal bus — is fully included.

Parking in Sfazù costs about CHF 5/day, and the trail to Lago di Saoseo is free to access.

Budget note:
If you’re staying in the area, Rifugio Saoseo offers cozy, affordable beds and local food.

⛰️ 3. Saxer Lücke – The Iconic Ridge Above the Clouds

For something more dramatic, head to Saxer Lücke, a natural mountain pass that looks like the gateway to another world. The sharp peaks of Chrüzberg rise above rolling meadows, and in autumn, the contrast between golden grass and grey rock is surreal.

How to get there:
Take the train to Wasserauen, the last stop on the Appenzell line. From the station, the trailhead is just a few minutes away and clearly marked — you’ll start walking right into the heart of the Alpstein mountains.

The cost: From Lucerne, the round trip to Wasserauen by train costs about CHF 60–70 (or CHF 35 with Half Fare Card).
If you have the Swiss Travel Pass, the entire journey is included for free.

Parking in Wasserauen costs CHF 5–10/day.

Hike tip:
This hike is more challenging but absolutely worth it. Start early, check the weather, and wear proper mountain boots — parts of the trail can be slippery with fallen leaves.

🍁 Final Thoughts

Autumn hikes in Switzerland are all about slowing down — feeling the crunch of leaves under your boots, the chill in the air, and the peace of knowing you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

Whether you’re standing by the mirror-like Klöntalersee, wandering through the golden forest to Lago di Saoseo, or watching clouds drift below you at Saxer Lücke, you’ll find that this season has a quiet kind of magic.

Pack your layers, charge your camera, and let Switzerland’s autumn colors do the rest. 🌤️

✨ Written by Heloysa Barros – Hike, Live, Travel