Switzerland — St. Moritz
The Five Lakes Walk in Switzerland's Engadin Valley is a moderate 9.8km route, perfect for a 4-5 hour alpine adventure. This well-maintained trail connects five pristine lakes, each offering stunning reflections of the Bernina Range. Enjoy diverse landscapes and unparalleled panoramic views on this quintessential Swiss day hike.
Distance: 9.8 km
Elevation Gain: 630 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 4-5 hours
The Five Lakes Walk, or Fünf-Seen-Weg, is a quintessential Swiss alpine day hike offering a breathtaking journey through the heart of the Engadin Valley. This moderately challenging route connects five pristine alpine lakes, each with its own unique character and stunning reflections of the surrounding Bernina Range. Starting from the picturesque village of Zermatt, this trail is renowned for its accessibility, well-maintained paths, and unparalleled panoramic views. It's a perfect introduction to the majesty of the Swiss Alps, suitable for most reasonably fit hikers, and provides a memorable experience of glacial landscapes, vibrant alpine flora, and the serene beauty of high-altitude lakes.
The Five Lakes Walk is a masterclass in alpine scenery, a carefully curated route that showcases the dramatic beauty of the Swiss Alps. The trail begins at Blauherd, a high-altitude station accessible by a series of cable cars and funiculars from the charming resort town of St. Moritz. From Blauherd, the path descends gently, weaving through alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers in summer and offering increasingly spectacular vistas of the iconic Matterhorn, Monte Rosa massif, and the surrounding peaks. The walk is designed to be a progression of natural wonders, with each lake presenting a distinct visual experience.
The first lake encountered is Stellisee, perhaps the most photographed due to its perfect reflection of the Matterhorn on calm days. Following the well-marked trail, hikers will then reach Grindjisee, known for its clear, deep blue waters and rugged surroundings. Next is Erglistensee, a smaller, more intimate lake nestled in a rocky basin. The trail continues to continue to Fluhalp, a charming mountain restaurant offering a welcome respite and stunning views. The final two lakes, Leisee and Moosjisee, complete the circuit, each offering unique perspectives and photo opportunities before the path leads to the Sunnegga funicular station, providing a swift and scenic descent back to Zermatt.
The elevation gain is moderate, with the majority of the ascent occurring on the initial cable car rides. The walking itself involves a net descent, making it manageable for a wide range of hikers. The trail is generally wide and well-maintained, though some sections can be rocky and uneven, requiring sturdy footwear. The best time to undertake this walk is between June and October, when the snow has melted, the wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is typically stable. However, even in summer, alpine weather can change rapidly, so preparedness is key.
The Engadin Valley, where the Five Lakes Walk is situated, has a rich history deeply intertwined with the development of alpine tourism. For centuries, this region was a vital transit route for trade and travel across the Alps, with communities developing around the strategic passes. The discovery of mineral springs in the 19th century, particularly in St. Moritz, transformed the valley into a fashionable destination for European aristocracy and the burgeoning middle class seeking health and recreation.
The construction of the Rhaetian Railway in the early 20th century, including the iconic Bernina Line, was a pivotal moment in making the Engadin accessible to a wider audience. This railway network, a UNESCO World Heritage site, facilitated the growth of winter sports and summer hiking, laying the groundwork for the well-developed trail systems we enjoy today. The infrastructure for the Five Lakes Walk, including the cable cars and funiculars, was developed in stages throughout the 20th century to cater to the increasing demand for accessible mountain experiences.
The lakes themselves are a product of glacial activity from the last Ice Age. As glaciers retreated, they carved out the valleys and depressions that now hold these pristine bodies of water. The surrounding peaks, part of the Rhaetian Alps, have been shaped by millennia of geological forces, their rugged beauty a testament to the power of nature. The cultural context of the walk is one of a long-standing tradition of hospitality and a deep appreciation for the natural environment, a hallmark of Swiss alpine culture.
The Five Lakes Walk is a seasonal trail, best enjoyed during the warmer months when the snow has receded and the alpine environment is at its most vibrant. The primary season for this walk is from June to October.
June: Early June can still see lingering snow at higher elevations, particularly on north-facing slopes. While the lower sections of the trail may be clear, some of the higher lakes might still be partially frozen or surrounded by snow. Wildflowers begin to emerge, and the landscape starts to awaken from winter. The weather can be unpredictable, with a higher chance of late snow showers.
July and August: These are the peak months for the Five Lakes Walk. The snow has completely melted, revealing lush alpine meadows carpeted with a spectacular array of wildflowers, including gentians, edelweiss, and alpine roses. The lakes are at their most inviting, reflecting the clear blue skies and snow-capped peaks. The weather is generally warm and stable, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. This is also the busiest period, so expect more fellow hikers on the trail.
September: Autumn brings a different kind of beauty to the Engadin. The colours of the alpine flora begin to change, with grasses turning golden and some shrubs displaying vibrant reds and oranges. The air is crisp and clear, offering excellent visibility and often fewer crowds than in mid-summer. The lakes remain stunning, and the reflections can be particularly sharp in the cooler, calmer air. The weather can become more unsettled towards the end of the month.
October: Early October can still offer good hiking conditions, especially on sunny days. However, the risk of early snowfall increases significantly, and temperatures will drop, particularly at higher altitudes. Some of the cable car services may begin to reduce their operating hours or close for the season towards the end of the month. It is essential to check operating times and weather forecasts before planning a hike in October.
Weather Reality: Alpine weather is notoriously changeable. Even on a sunny summer day, conditions can shift rapidly. Be prepared for sudden drops in temperature, strong winds, rain, and even snow at higher elevations. It is crucial to check the mountain forecast daily and carry appropriate layers of clothing, including waterproof and windproof outer shells.
This is a single-day hike, so the itinerary focuses on the progression of the walk.
Important Notes:
The Five Lakes Walk is a day hike, meaning no overnight accommodation is required on the trail itself. However, planning your journey to Zermatt and your ascent to the trailhead is crucial. Zermatt is a car-free village, accessible primarily by train. If arriving by car, you must park in Täsch (a village near Zermatt) and take the shuttle train into Zermatt. Book train tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure preferred times and potentially better prices. Accommodation in Zermatt ranges from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and apartments; book well in advance, particularly for summer and winter holidays.
The ascent to the trailhead at Blauherd involves a series of public transport connections: the underground funicular from Zermatt to Sunnegga, followed by a gondola to Blauherd. These services operate on a schedule, and it's advisable to check their operating times and purchase tickets in advance, especially during busy periods. Consider purchasing a multi-day pass if you plan to use the mountain transport extensively during your stay in Zermatt.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation.
No specific permits are required to hike the Five Lakes Walk. The trail is part of the public hiking network in the Zermatt region, and access to the lakes and surrounding areas is generally free. However, you will need to purchase tickets for the mountain transport (funicular and gondola) to reach the trailhead at Blauherd and to descend from Sunnegga. These tickets can be bought at the respective ticket offices in Zermatt or online in advance.
Mountain Transport Costs:
Booking Mountain Transport:
Important Considerations:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Five Lakes Walk (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Five Lakes Walk, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
Zermatt and the surrounding Engadin Valley offer a wealth of activities beyond the Five Lakes Walk, catering to various interests and fitness levels:
Pre-Departure Checks:
On the Trail:
General Advice:
While the Five Lakes Walk is a complete circuit in itself, several points of interest and potential short detours enhance the experience:
Matterhorn Reflections: The primary draw of this walk is the opportunity to capture iconic reflections of the Matterhorn in the still waters of the lakes. Stellisee is particularly famous for this, but Grindjisee and Leisee also offer superb photographic opportunities, especially on calm mornings or late afternoons when the light is soft and the air is still.
Alpine Flora and Fauna: During the summer months (July-August), the alpine meadows along the trail are bursting with wildflowers. Keep an eye out for species like gentians, alpine roses, edelweiss (though rare), and various colourful wildflowers. You might also spot marmots or chamois in the higher rocky areas.
Fluhalp Mountain Restaurant: Located between Erglistensee and Leisee, Fluhalp is a traditional mountain restaurant offering a welcome opportunity to rest, enjoy a warm meal or drink, and soak in the panoramic views. It's a perfect spot for a lunch break or a mid-hike refreshment.
Playground at Leisee: For families, Leisee offers a shallow, safe area for children to play and paddle, along with a small playground. This makes Leisee a popular spot for a longer break, especially for those with younger hikers.
Panoramic Viewpoints: The entire trail offers spectacular viewpoints. At various points, particularly on the descents between lakes, you will be treated to sweeping vistas of the Matterhorn, the Gorner Glacier, and the surrounding peaks of the Pennine Alps. Take your time to pause and appreciate the grandeur of the landscape.
The pristine alpine environment of the Engadin Valley is a precious resource that requires careful stewardship. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles ensures that this beautiful landscape remains unspoiled for future generations of hikers and for the benefit of the local ecosystem.
Your responsibility as a walker:
By following these principles, you help preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Five Lakes Walk and the wider Engadin region.
