Mid-October is when many high-altitude hikes in Switzerland close to prepare for the winter season. But if you still want to get out there and make the most of the gorgeous October and November days, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of our top 8 easy, family-friendly hikes that are packed with fun activities and located at slightly lower elevations, meaning they’ll stay open for the next few weeks.
Important: Make sure to check the official websites for each hike before heading out, as these are weather-dependent, and there could be unexpected closures due to changing conditions. We've included links to webcams so you can assess the current weather and trail conditions. Stay safe and enjoy the adventure!
1. Bounce and search for goats
Sattel Hochstuckli (Schwyz)
Altitude: 1191 m a.s.l. Open until November 3rd
Goat themed circular hike (5.6 km), mostly flat (168 m ascent / descent), stroller friendly, with 7 play stations along the way, an epic bouncy castle town, summer slide and a quiz.
2. Meet the giants
Riesenwald Giant Forest (Glarus)
Altitude: 1490 m a.s.l. Open until November 1st
Giant themed circular hike (2.6 km), mostly flat (50 m ascent / descent), stroller friendly with a playground, trampolines, mountain carts & scooters and play stations along the way.
3. Feed the goats
Heidi circular trail (St. Gallen)
Altitude: 1742 m a.s.l. Open until October 27th (weekend operation in November, weather-dependent)
Goat themed circular hike (4 km), mostly flat with small uphill areas (121 m ascent / descent), stroller friendly, with a playground, scavenger hunt and play stations along the way.
4. Fly a broom
Weather-witch & Witch trail (Luzerne)
Altitude: 1227 - 1579 m a.s.l. Open at least until November 3rd (potentially opened until November 29th, weather-dependent)
Two witch-themed hikes: Witch trail (3.2 km, 377 m descent) & Weather-witch trail (4.4 km, 134 m ascent/descent) with a large playground, pony rides, summer toboggan and play stations along the way. No strollers.
5. Hunt for footprints
Squitty the Squirrel trail (Ticino)
Altitude: 1340 m a.s.l. Open until October 20th
Circular hike (3.6 km), slight ascent and descent (90 m), with playgrounds, play areas and a scavenger hunt to find animal footprints. Optional chairlift ride to a viewpoint and infinity swing. No strollers.
6. Experience a groundhog day
Amdo Mungg Groundhog Trail (St.
Gallen)
Altitude: 1422 m a.s.l. Open until TBC Live webcam
Groundhog themed circular hike (3.6 km 157 m ascent / descent), stroller friendly, with a scavenger hunt and 12 play stations along the way.
7. Embrace the moorland
Mooraculum Sundew Trail (Luzerne) Open until November 3rd Altitude: 1463 m a.s.l.
Moor themed circular hike (1.4 km), mostly flat (50 m ascent / descent), stroller friendly, with a huge alpine playground, two scavenger hunts and play stations along the way.
8. Check out the mountain lake
Stoos Moor Trail (Schwyz)
Open until November 17th, then open during weekends
Altitude: 1346 m a.s.l.
1.6 km flat, circular hike with a stunning lake, water playground and a fun way to discover moors with a quest. Suitable for strollers.
IMPORTANT: These hikes will only stay open if the weather conditions allow. We strongly recommend checking on their respective websites before planning your trip. You can find all the links you need on the Family Fun Factor hikes review pages.