The shortest route to Zürich's house mountain: a broad, signposted path from the Uetliberg railway terminus to the Uto Kulm summit and its lookout tower, with views over the city, the lake and the Alps.
The Uetliberg (869 m) is the wooded ridge that rises directly behind the city of Zürich. The S10 train of the Uetlibergbahn climbs from Zürich Hauptbahnhof to Uetliberg station in about 20 minutes, and from there a wide, gently rising path of about 1.5 km leads to the Uto Kulm summit, where a steel lookout tower stands next to the Uto Kulm hotel and restaurant. The route is mostly gravel and forest track with a few steps near the top, suitable for most walkers in ordinary shoes. From the tower platform the view stretches across the rooftops of Zürich and the whole length of Lake Zürich to the Glarus and Central Swiss Alps in clear weather, while in autumn and winter the city is often below a sea of fog. The summit is a popular sunset and sunrise destination. Many walkers continue along the ridge to Felsenegg or down to the city, so the summit walk is easily combined with longer routes.
| Distance | 1.5 km one way from Uetliberg station to Uto Kulm |
|---|---|
| Duration | 20-30 minutes up, 15-20 minutes down |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | S10 from Zürich Hauptbahnhof to Uetliberg (about 20 min, ZVV network; timetable on sbb.ch and the ZVV app) |
| Best season | Year-round; October-March for fog-free views above the cloud layer on inversion days |
| Address | Uetliberg station, Uetlibergstrasse, 8143 Stallikon / Zürich |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Uetliberg, Zürich (city of 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
Uetliberg station, Uetlibergstrasse, 8143 Stallikon / Zürich
47.3495, 8.4914 View on map
Highlights
- Uetliberg lookout tower above the city
- Panorama of Lake Zürich and the Alpine chain on clear days
- Easy path suitable for families
- Uto Kulm hotel and restaurant at the summit
- Starting point for ridge routes to Felsenegg and the Albis
Tips for visiting
- Take the S10 from Zürich HB to Uetliberg (end of the line); the ride takes roughly 20 minutes.
- Check the weather forecast before going; in autumn the summit is frequently above the fog.
- Bring a head torch if descending after sunset.
When to visit
Year-round; October-March for fog-free views above the cloud layer on inversion days
Accessibility
The path is a gravel and forest track with a moderate gradient and some steps near the summit; it is not fully step-free and is difficult for wheelchair users, though strollers can manage the main track with effort.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to the start?
Take the S10 train from Zürich Hauptbahnhof to the terminus Uetliberg, then follow the signposted path to Uto Kulm.
Is the summit walk suitable for children?
Yes. The path is wide and well-maintained, and takes about 20-30 minutes at a relaxed pace.