Hiking With Dogs in Switzerland: Best Dog-Friendly Hikes near Lauterbrunnen [Local’s Guide 2025]

Intro to Hiking in the Lauterbrunnen Valley

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland is a land of legends and fables, of ancient stories scrawled in stone, and famously, it is the very landscape that inspired Lord of the Rings author JRR Tolkien's vision of the elven realm of Rivendell.

In this realm, slightly less mystical, Lauterbrunnen is a narrow U-shaped valley carved by glaciers epochs ago in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Its limestone walls rise vertically for 800 meters on either side, their slate faces abseiled by some 72 waterfalls—or so it's said. Above these walls, the landscape unfolds into idyllic alpine meadows in the shadows of imposing peaks, crowned by the legendary trinity of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

While recent years have seen the valley gain fame through filtered Instagram posts and carefully curated social media moments, Lauterbrunnen holds a deeper significance for a different tribe. For the last three decades, this valley has been whispered about around skydive dropzones as the Mecca of BASE jumping training grounds. Its walls, with their multiple exit points and clean vertical drops, have drawn trackers and wingsuit pilots from every corner of the globe, each seeking to test themselves in harmony with gravity and abiding by the laws of physics in one of the best training grounds our sport has known.

Photo courtesy of Peggy Kelly Photography: Your Lauterbrunnen Photographer

The Authentic Lauterbrunnen Experience

But Lauterbrunnen is more than its limestone faces and tourist crowds. It remains, at its heart, a working alpine community where farmers still drive their animals to high pastures in summer for the Alpaufzug, where the rhythm of village life moves with the seasons, and where the morning mist rising from the falls reminds us that some places hold magic beyond what can be captured in photographs—unless you're Peggy. Peggy is the only person I know who has managed to capture the full magic of this landscape in her photography.

Here, beneath these ancient walls, traditional Swiss farming practices coexist with extreme sports culture—BASE jumping, speed flying, ski mountaineering, paragliding. Local farmers pause their morning routines to watch colorful canopies descend from the clouds, while BASE jumpers help bring herds of goats and cows down from the high meadows for Alpabzug in autumn. The valley has become a unique crucible where different worlds blend into something entirely its own—a place where adventure meets tradition, where the profound silence of dawn is broken only by cowbells and a canopy cracking open overhead.

A Personal Journey to Lauterbrunnen

Like many before me, I first came to Lauterbrunnen as a pilgrim to these walls. Thunder and I had spent 11 years as perpetual wanderers, collecting experiences across thirty-two countries, our definition of home distilled to the simple understanding between a man and his dog, together on The Road. We came for the limestone—for its clean lines and manicured BASE exits, for the chance to further my wingsuit training in what many consider the most reliable BASE jumping environment in the world.

But the valley had other plans.

Between dawn patrol jumps and evening hikes with Thunder, I found myself drawn into the rhythm of this place: the morning sun painting the walls, the famous mists of the Staubbachfall iridescent in the alpine light, the glowing moonlight like a beacon for lost prayers whispered in these mountains. I liked the way traditional alpine life harmonized with the racing heartbeat of extreme sports. And then there was Peggy. What began as a chance meeting in the BASE jumper community evolved into something that would reshape our understanding of belonging.

After a season working with pack mules in Sequoia's wilderness, Thunder and I returned to these walls. What we found was more than just Peggy or the perfect training ground—we discovered what 11 years of wanderlust hadn't revealed: a place where the call of the horizon could coexist with the pull of home. Now, four years later, Thunder and I have traced every dog-friendly trail in this valley, from gentle paths along the Weisselütschine to challenging routes where ibex graze the cliffsides at dawn.

Dog-Friendly Hiking in the Berner Oberland

The stunning Berner Oberland region of Switzerland, with Lauterbrunnen at its heart, offers some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in Europe. While exploring this majestic landscape with your four-legged companion, it's important to know which trails welcome dogs and match your pup's abilities. This guide ranks the best dog-friendly trails around Lauterbrunnen, from gentle valley walks to challenging alpine adventures—all thoroughly explored by Thunder himself.

Trail Rating System

• Difficulty: Easy, Moderate, Challenging
• Dog-Friendliness: ★☆☆☆☆ (Challenging for most dogs) to ★★★★★ (Perfect for dogs)
• Scenic Value: 1-10
• Terrain: Surface conditions and obstacles
• Facilities: Water sources, rest areas, etc.
• Distance & Time: Approximate length and typical completion time

Side note: the Jungfrau Region is one of the most epic landscapes I've ever seen and I've seen a fair amount. Compared to most places around the globe, everything here would easily fall in the top 10%, but rating everything a 10/10 isn't very helpful. So instead, I will "grade on a curve" and the ratings of these trails will be relative to the already extraordinary 10/10 beauty of the entire region.

Easy Hiking Trails Near Lauterbrunnen

1. Lauterbrunnen Valley Floor Walk

• Difficulty: Easy
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★★★
• Scenic Value: 8/10
• Terrain: Flat, well-maintained paths
• Facilities: Multiple water fountains, restaurants, benches, self-service "honesty shops" on local farms
• Distance & Time: 11 km (6.8 miles) round trip; 2.5-3 hours, with the option to only walk it one-way and catch a bus back

This gentle path follows the valley floor alongside the Weisse Lütschine river, offering spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs and most famous waterfalls without any significant elevation gain. The trail is wide and mostly paved or well-groomed, making it perfect for dogs of all ages and fitness levels. The numerous water fountains along the way ensure your dog stays hydrated, and several restaurants with outdoor seating welcome canine visitors.

2. Wengen Village Loop

• Difficulty: Easy
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★★☆
• Scenic Value: 7/10
• Terrain: Village paths, some paved sections
• Facilities: Water fountains, dog-friendly cafés
• Distance & Time: 3 km (1.9 miles) loop; 1-1.5 hours

Take the train with your dog to Wengen (dogs travel free on this train, but not all trains) and enjoy this charming "car-free" village loop. The trail circles the village with minimal elevation change and offers spectacular views of the Jungfrau and Silberhorn. Note that while dogs are welcome, you'll encounter more people here than on other trails.

3. Grütschalp to Winteregg to Mürren

• Difficulty: Easy
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★★☆
• Scenic Value: 7/10
• Terrain: Rolling path, some paved sections
• Facilities: Restaurants in Grütschalp, Winteregg, and Mürren
• Distance & Time: 4.1 km (2.5 miles); 1.5-2 hours

Take the Gondola from Lauterbrunnen up to Grütschalp (dogs ride free). A rolling path with a gentle grade and minimal elevation gain the whole way. This trail provides perhaps my favorite vantage point of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains towering on the otherside of the valley.

4. Stechelberg to Trachsellauenen

• Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★★★
• Scenic Value: 9/10
• Terrain: Gentle uphill, gravel paths
• Facilities: Streams for drinking, picnic areas
• Distance & Time: 5 km (3.1 miles) one way; 1.5-2 hours

This picturesque trail follows the upper Lauterbrunnen Valley into the box canyon on its south end, starting from the small village of Stechelberg. It is uphill the whole way, but mostly gradual. The path passes alpine meadows and offers views of distant waterfalls like the Schmadribachfall. The terrain is mostly gravel and dirt paths, gentle enough to be a training challenge for less experienced dogs, but too long and steep for Thunder now in his old age at 16. Natural water sources are plentiful, though it's good practice to treat the water or bring your own.

Moderate Trails (For Active Dogs)

5. Mürren to Gimmelwald to Stechelberg

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★★☆
• Scenic Value: 9/10
• Terrain: Mountain path, some steep sections
• Facilities: Limited water sources, few rest areas
• Distance & Time: 5.2 km (3.2 miles) one way; 2-2.5 hours

This downhill trail offers breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau as well as the iconic pinnacles of the Schwarzmönch. Take the cable car up to Mürren with your dog (dogs ride free), then enjoy the mostly downhill trek to Gimmelwald. The path starts gradually then has some steep sections and uneven terrain, so it's best for sure-footed dogs with some hiking experience. The trail continues on to Stechelberg where it remains pretty steep for the rest of the way down. Carry water as sources are limited along the way.

6. Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg or its Reverse

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★★☆
• Scenic Value: 10/10
• Terrain: Ridge trail, some exposed sections
• Facilities: Restaurant at both ends, limited water on trail
• Distance & Time: 5.4 km (3.3 miles) one way; 1.5-2 hours

Often called the "Panorama Trail," this ridge walk is a personal favorite of mine and Peggy's and offers perhaps the most spectacular mountain views in the region (I proposed to Peggy in a secret spot along this trail). The trail itself isn't technically difficult, but the high altitude and exposure make it best for dogs comfortable with heights and changing terrain. The trail has minimal elevation gain but runs along a ridge with steep dropoffs in places, so good leash control is recommended. Bring water for your dog as there are few natural sources along the way.

7. Isenfluh to Sulwald (with option to continue up to the Lobhornhütte)

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★★☆
• Scenic Value: 7/10 (9/10 from the Lobhornhütte)
• Terrain: Forest paths, moderate incline
• Facilities: Stream crossings, picnic areas
• Distance & Time: 6 km (3.7 miles) one way; 2-2.5 hours

This less-traveled trail offers a quieter hiking experience through beautiful forests and alpine meadows. The moderate incline is sustained but never too steep, making it suitable for fit dogs with some hiking experience. Several stream crossings provide natural water sources, and the trail is mostly shaded – perfect for warmer days. If you continue up to the Lobhornhütte, you are rewarded with even more sweeping views of the valley below, and you can stop for a snack and a beer at the mountain hut and nearby restaurant (Stube).

Challenging Trails (For Experienced Hiking Dogs)

8. Schynige Platte Alpine Garden Trail

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★☆☆
• Scenic Value: 9/10
• Terrain: Rocky paths, significant elevation changes
• Facilities: Restaurant at trailhead, no water on trail
• Distance & Time: 5.5 km (3.4 miles) loop; 2.5-3 hours

This alpine trail begins at the Schynige Platte railway station in Wilderswil and loops through the Alpine Garden with stunning views of both the Jungfrau massif, Interlaken, and Lake Thun. The terrain is challenging with rocky sections and some scrambling required. Only take athletic dogs with hiking experience, and be prepared to assist your dog in some sections (perfect use-case for the DOGPAK Moab Lite Hiking Backpack). The higher elevation can be taxing, so plan for a few breaks.

9. Eiger Trail

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★☆☆
• Scenic Value: 10/10
• Terrain: Rocky, exposed, steep sections
• Facilities: Limited, bring all supplies
• Distance & Time: 6 km (3.7 miles) one way; 2.5-3.5 hours

This famous trail runs beneath the imposing north face of the Eiger, a legendary wall from the annals of mountaineering history, from Eigergletscher to Alpiglen. While offering unparalleled views, this trail is only suitable for very experienced canine hikers with excellent stamina and sure-footedness. The western slope of the Eiger itself has a lot of brittle slate and sections where scrambling is required, which can be dangerous as the slate slides under your hands and feet. Some sections require careful navigation over loose rock, and the exposure can be intimidating. Carry all water needed and be prepared to lift your dog through certain passages (another opportune use-case for the over-sized handle on the Moab Lite Hiking Harness and Daypack for Dogs).

10. Obersteinberg Mountain Hut Trail

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★★☆
• Scenic Value: 10/10
• Terrain: Steep ascent, varied terrain, proper alpine setting
• Facilities: Mountain hut and hotel at destination
• Distance & Time: 7.5 km (4.7 miles) one way; 3.5-4.5 hours

This demanding trail from Stechelberg up to the historic Obersteinberg Mountain Hut rewards with spectacular views and an immersive Swiss Alpine experience. It is one of my favorites and comes highly recommended for those looking for a full day adventure (or stay the night and hike back in the morning). The significant elevation gain (over 1,000m) makes this suitable only for more athletic dogs accustomed to longer, steeper hikes. The trail passes through diverse terrain including forests, meadows, and rocky sections. Depending on the time of year, you might even encounter a real-life Swiss Heidi making authentic Alp cheese and jodeling to her animals (I'm not joking). Confirm in advance if dogs are permitted inside the mountain hut if you plan to stay overnight.

BONUS: The Expert Trail: For The True Mountain Dogs and Their Intrepid Humans

11. The Sefinenfurgge Pass (Mürren to Griesalp or Reverse)

• Difficulty: Ambitious
• Dog-Friendliness: ★★★☆☆
• Scenic Value: 11/10
• Terrain: Steep ascents, varied terrain, proper alpine setting, some navigation required, 1000+ meters elevation gain
• Facilities: Periodic mountain streams for water
• Distance & Time: 16 km (10 miles) one way; 6-7 hours

The route from Mürren over the Sefinenfurgge Pass to Griesalp isn't just a hike—it's a journey through the heart of what makes the Swiss Alps wild and wonderful.

The trail begins in Mürren, climbing steadily through alpine meadows before tackling the serious ascent to the pass at 2,612m (8,570 ft).

Critical Sections:

• The steep ascent to the pass requires sure-footed dogs comfortable with exposure
• Several sections with loose scree demand excellent scrambling skills
• The descent to Griesalp is long and somewhat demanding

Pro Tips from Our Testing Sessions:

• Get an early "alpine start"
• The pass can hold snow well into summer
• Carry extra water - there are limited reliable sources after leaving Mürren
• Consider the Griesalp mountain hut for overnight stays

This isn't a trail for every dog. But for those ready for it, the Sefinenfurgge offers something special—a chance to experience the raw, untamed side of these mountains, where every step strengthens the bond between human and dog.

Essential Gear: Lessons from the Trail

After 15 years of testing outdoor gear for dogs and people across 30+ countries with Thunder, I've learned that equipment choice isn't just about comfort—it's about safety and freedom of movement, and sometimes even about survival. Each item in our pack has earned its place through countless miles of testing, from Andean peaks in Peru to these Swiss valleys.

The Non-Negotiables:

Water System:

You need a way to reliably secure drinking water. You can carry some with you or you can rely on a treatment or filtration system and stock up at lakes, creeks, and streams. The Alps can be deceptively dry, and streams aren't always accessible when you need them.

Remember too that your dog needs something to drink out of. I designed our ultralight collapsible bowl to be exactly the kind of trail bowl I had always wanted, but couldn't find. It is the lightest bowl I have found and is made with Certified Food-Safe material for eating or drinking out of.

K9 First Aid Kit:

Mountain emergencies demand immediate response—something I learned during my days volunteering with Thunder for mountain Search and Rescue operations. Carry basic supplies: bandages, tick removal tools, antiseptic, and emergency contacts. The time to learn how to use them is before you need them. This article contains more in-depth information on preparing a K9 first aid kit.

Visibility Tools (Headlamp):

The mountains have taught us that even short hikes can turn into unexpected adventures. Our gear incorporates reflective elements tested during countless dawn patrols and dusk returns through these valleys. Still, you need a light source. Find a reliable and long-lasting headlamp and never hit the trails without one (or two).

Critical Safety Gear:

Harness & Leash:

Swiss regulations require dogs to be leashed in most areas. Personally, I also prefer for my pup to carry a small, lightweight harness and daypack so that emergency materials are immediately available if needed, like his K9 first aid kit. I couldn't find the kind of lightweight dog daypack I wanted for Thunder, and that's when I began making his own custom gear, which eventually led to DOGPAK and designing the Moab Lite ultralight and waterproof daypack for dogs. Drawing from my years of horse training and parachute rigging experience, I focused on creating a harness that centers weight over the shoulders while keeping the elbows free—much like how a well-fitted saddle distributes weight without restricting movement.

Emergency Carry System:

During avalanche rescue training with Thunder in Colorado, I learned the hard way that having a way to carry your dog out could someday be critical.

Paw Protection:

Not every trail demands paw protection, but when you need it, you really need it. Some dogs have tougher paws than others, and you should know what kind of terrain and conditions are ok for your pup's pads and when you need some kind of paw protection. After testing dozens of boots across multiple continents, we found that simple solutions often work best. For many conditions, Musher's Secret provides better protection than elaborate boot systems.

 

Important Tips for Hiking with Dogs in Berner Oberland

• Leash Regulations: Swiss regulations generally require dogs to be leashed in natural areas to protect wildlife. Always carry a leash even on remote trails.
• Cable Cars and Trains: Most mountain transport in the region accepts dogs for free, however the bus requires a half-fare ticket for your dog. Confirm specific policies in advance.
• Alpine Weather: Mountain weather changes rapidly. This is the Alps, and they are not to be taken lightly. Pack extra layers for yourself and consider a lightweight dog jacket for sudden temperature drops. Research the local weather event called the "Föhn" and either avoid it or properly prepare yourself for when it moves in.
• Wildlife Awareness: The region is home to grazing livestock and wildlife: deer, ibex, gemse/chamois, fox, badger. Fair warning, there is rumored to be at least one lone wolf in the area, and in 2021 one was spotted and videoed in Männlichen. And watch out for the Rollibock. Keep your dog under control when encountering cows, sheep, goats, or our equine friends.
• Waste Disposal: Pack out all dog waste, especially above the tree line where decomposition occurs very slowly.
• Emergency Preparation: Save the local veterinary all-hours emergency contact (Tierklinik Interlaken: +41 33 822 21 41) and know the emergency evacuation routes for each trail. REGA rescue helicopter insurance is available for only 40 CHF/year, so if you foresee a helicopter rescue in your future, it's a good idea to have it. The emergency number for REGA is 1414. Ambulance is 144.
• Timing Considerations: All hiking times are estimates for average hikers with dogs. Add extra time for frequent breaks, photography stops, or if your dog needs a more relaxed pace. During summer months, start early to avoid afternoon heat and potential thunderstorms.

Seasonal Recommendations

Spring (April-May):

• Snowmelt creates spectacular waterfall displays
• Lower trails clear first while high routes remain snow-covered
• Watch for muddy conditions and unstable snow bridges
• Morning frost can make trails slippery
• Excellent time for valley walks and lower elevation adventures
• Keep your dog on leash as wildlife emerges with their young

Summer (June-August):

• Prime hiking season but expect crowds
• Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms
• High alpine trails become accessible
• Watch for overheating on exposed trails
• Bring extra water - mountain air is deceptively dry
• Evening walks offer cooler temperatures and magical light

Autumn (September-October):

• Perfect hiking weather with fewer tourists
• Stable weather patterns
• Fall colors paint the valley
• Watch for early snow on high routes
• Shorter daylight hours require careful planning
• Many mountain huts begin closing for winter

Winter (November-March):

• Many trails transform into winter walking paths
• Some routes become avalanche prone
• Check conditions before heading out
• Consider dog boots for salted village paths
• Shorter days require proper planning
• Perfect for valley floor adventures

One final note: bring your camera along. These trails offer some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Alps, and capturing moments with your dog against this backdrop of waterfalls and peaks creates lasting memories. From morning light painting the Eiger to evening alpenglow on limestone walls, every turn offers another perspective worth preserving. If you're looking to improve your adventure dog photography skills, check out our comprehensive guide to capturing those perfect moments with your four-legged hiking companion.

Conclusion: The Magic of Hiking with Dogs in Switzerland

The Berner Oberland holds endless possibilities for adventures with your four-legged companion. Here in Lauterbrunnen, where Thunder and I finally found home, dogs are welcomed not just on trails but into the fabric of daily life. They join their humans at restaurant terraces beneath towering peaks, rest beside backpacks at mountain huts, and wade through crystal streams fed by ancient glaciers.

Each trail we've detailed here offers its own rhythm, its own story waiting to be discovered. Some will lead you through quiet valleys where cowbells echo off limestone walls, others to high alpine meadows where ibex graze at dawn. But all of them share one truth: in this landscape of seventy-two waterfalls and timeless peaks, the bond between human and dog grows stronger with every step.

Choose your path thoughtfully, prepare with care, and let the mountains work their magic. After all, sometimes the greatest discoveries come not from the peaks we reach, but from the quiet moments shared with our four-legged companions along the way.

FAQ About Dog-Friendly Hiking in Switzerland

Are dogs allowed on public transportation in Switzerland?

Yes, dogs are allowed on most public transportation in Switzerland. On many mountain cable cars and trains in the Lauterbrunnen area, dogs can travel for free, but buses typically require a half-fare ticket for your dog. Always confirm specific policies before traveling.

Do I need to keep my dog on a leash in Switzerland?

Swiss regulations generally require dogs to be leashed in natural areas to protect wildlife. This is especially important in the Berner Oberland region where wildlife is abundant and protected.

What should I pack for hiking with my dog in the Swiss Alps?

Essential items include: a collapsible water bowl, plenty of water or a water filtration system, a K9 first aid kit, a proper harness and leash, paw protection for rough terrain, and waste bags. For longer or more challenging hikes, consider emergency carry equipment.

When is the best time to hike with dogs in Lauterbrunnen?

Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the best conditions for hiking with dogs. Summer provides access to high alpine trails but can be crowded, while early fall offers beautiful colors and fewer tourists. Always check trail conditions regardless of season.

How do I prepare my dog for hiking in the Swiss Alps?

Build up your dog's stamina and paw toughness gradually with increasingly challenging hikes before attempting high alpine routes. Practice good leash control, ensure they respond well to commands, and familiarize them with potentially challenging terrain features.

Are there veterinarians near Lauterbrunnen in case of emergency?

Yes, the nearest full-service veterinary clinic is Tierklinik Interlaken (+41 33 822 21 41). Save this number and know emergency evacuation routes for each trail you hike. Consider getting REGA rescue helicopter insurance (40 CHF/year) for serious emergencies.

Which trails are best for older or less athletic dogs?

The Lauterbrunnen Valley Floor Walk, Wengen Village Loop, and Grütschalp to Winteregg to Mürren trails are excellent options for older or less athletic dogs, offering beautiful scenery without challenging terrain or significant elevation gain.

Last Updated: March 2025

Disclaimer: Trail conditions can change rapidly in alpine environments. Always check current conditions before hiking and be prepared for emergencies.