A wild-feeling hill walk in the Tössbergland to the Hörnli (about 1,133 m), one of the highest points in the canton, through forest, pastures and farmland far from city noise.
The Tössbergland is the hilly, thinly settled landscape in the south-east of the canton of Zürich, and the Hörnli (about 1,133 m) is its best-known summit. A route from Steg in the Töss valley climbs through forest and steep pastures to the ridge and the summit region, where restaurants and a viewpoint provide extensive views to the Alps on clear days. The distance is around 11 km with a total climb of roughly 550 m, so this is a full half-day to a day outing. Paths are marked as yellow hiking trails but are less busy than the Uetliberg and Albis trails, and walkers should plan the return connection in advance since bus frequencies in the Tössbergland are lower than in the city.
| Distance | about 11 km |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 hours |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trailhead | S-Bahn via Bauma to Steg (about 1 hour from Zürich HB, ZVV) |
| Best season | May-October |
| Address | Bahnhof Steg, 8496 Steg im Tösstal |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Tössbergland, Steg-Fischenthal, canton Zürich
What to bring
- Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners
- Water (at least 1 litre)
- Light rain layer
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- ZVV day pass or SwissPass, or the ZVV app, for the public transport legs
Location
Bahnhof Steg, 8496 Steg im Tösstal
47.3500, 8.9340 View on map
Highlights
- Hörnli summit with wide Alpine views
- Quiet forested valleys and steep pastures
- Mountain restaurants on the ridge
- Remote feel despite proximity to Zürich
- Good option for autumn colours
Tips for visiting
- Check bus times back from the Hörnli area or Steg before setting out.
- Use a topographic map or hiking app, since junctions can be less obvious.
- Carry waterproofs, as weather changes quickly on the ridge.
When to visit
May-October
Accessibility
Steep natural paths; not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How do I reach Steg?
Take the S-Bahn from Zürich HB toward the Töss valley; see the ZVV app for current connections.
Is this suitable for families?
For active families with older children, yes; the climb is long.