My top 5 hiking­highlights

Did you know that Engelberg has a hiking network that is over 500 km long?

This means that there is a huge choice of varied and breathtaking hiking adventures, so it's easy to lose track. 
To make sure this doesn't happen, here are my top 5 must-do hikes in Engelberg. These are suitable for hiking enthusiasts as well as families, and the best part: Engelberg is so centrally located that this mountain destination is also perfect for your next day trip.

1. 4-Lakes Hike

4.5h to 6.5h depending on inclusion of lanes

An absolute classic and on my list every year is the 4-lake hike from Melchsee-Frutt to Engelberg (or Engelberg to Melchsee-Frutt). A hike that meets all requirements and enchants everyone with its incredible uniqueness. The hike gets an absolute plus point because it can be shortened by chairlift, scooter-bike or gondola, depending on your mood. Lake Melchsee, Lake Tannensee, Lake Engstlensee and Lake Trübsee offer countless places to relax and marvel at our mountain world.

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2. Aaschlucht

Hiking time 2.5h

A hike that I have known since I was a child and that has shaped me through various autumn hikes at school. The route was rebuilt in 2005 after the storm and is now surrounded by numerous suspension bridges and lovingly decorated barbecue areas. The perfect hike for families and with your "hiking buddy" on a hot summer day. The path leads you along the Aawater and thus provides a refreshing breeze. In autumn, the gorge shows off its spectacular colourful splendour with the discoloured forests and the shimmering blue glacier water.

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4. Walenpfad

Hiking time 4.00h

Fancy a hike at altitude? The well-known Walen Trail offers you this opportunity. The view down into the Engelberg valley and into the far distance fascinates me every time. You can start either in Engelberg or in Oberrickenbach. Thanks to the cable cars and the chairlift in Ristis, the hike can also be shortened perfectly. There are also numerous stops at alpine inns and mountain restaurants.

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5. Buiräbähnli-Safari

Hiking time 17.5h / 50km

Last but not least, I'd like to introduce you to the Buiräbähnli Safari. I have to admit that I grew up in the cable car area and have therefore been familiar with the many trains that characterise the Engelberg valley since I was a child. I still enjoy using them very much today. This hike also offers a brief contact with the operators, who can certainly give a valuable tip now and then. Thanks to the Buiräbähnli Safari, you can overcome differences in altitude and valleys with ease. The hike is thus the perfect mix between hiking and a unique riding experience. Because every train on this trip is different, it results in a special kind of thrill. For example, the Rugisbalm-Bahn has always been called the Kippi-Bähnli at home, because it makes a tilting movement when it reaches the first mast. The Buiräbähnli Safari is also possible in several stages and with the Buiräbähnli Pass all eight cableways are already included.

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Author

Text: Katja Zumbühl
Katja Zumbühl, who grew up in the Engelberg Valley, laced up her hiking boots at an early age and discovered numerous popular places in her surroundings with her family. To this day, she loves spending her free time in nature and walking her "all time favourites".

Pictures: Engelberg- Titlis Tourismus AG