Four Lakes Hike
Experience the magic of multiple stunning alpine lakes, from Switzerland's vibrant turquoise waters to Colorado's scenic loops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds for serene views
Four Lakes Hike
Best Time
Beat the crowds for serene views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the magic of multiple stunning alpine lakes, from Switzerland's vibrant turquoise waters to Colorado's scenic loops.
"This place is heaven, one of the most picturesque views in all of Washington."
🎯 Check Trail Specifics
The 'Four Lakes Hike' isn't one place! Confirm your destination (e.g., Engelberg, RMNP) before you go.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even easier trails can be rocky. Good hiking shoes are a must for enjoying the scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Alpine Waters
Various lakes across Switzerland
Experience the surreal beauty of vibrant turquoise lakes set against dramatic mountain backdrops.
Engelberg's Four Lakes Trail
Engelberg, Switzerland
A popular and scenic route with idyllic mountain lakes and breathtaking views of the Titlis massif.
Rocky Mountain National Park Lakes
Rocky Mountain National Park, USA
Discover a loop featuring five distinct lakes, offering diverse scenery and accessible trails.
Caumasee's Surreal Colors
Flims, Switzerland
Marvel at the mesmerizing, almost otherworldly turquoise hues of Caumasee, especially when water levels reveal hidden patterns.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Four Lakes Hike
Choosing Your Four Lakes Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Trail Specifics
The 'Four Lakes Hike' isn't one place! Confirm your destination (e.g., Engelberg, RMNP) before you go. 
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even easier trails can be rocky. Good hiking shoes are a must for enjoying the scenery.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on longer loops. Some trails are remote.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone! The scenery is breathtaking and perfect for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Trail Specifics
The 'Four Lakes Hike' isn't one place! Confirm your destination (e.g., Engelberg, RMNP) before you go.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even easier trails can be rocky. Good hiking shoes are a must for enjoying the scenery.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on longer loops. Some trails are remote.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone! The scenery is breathtaking and perfect for photos.
🚗 Consider Transportation
Some trailheads require specific transport (funiculars, cable cars). Plan accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Four Lakes Hike for its breathtaking natural beauty, with many describing the scenery as 'heaven' and 'out of a dream.' The vibrant colors of the lakes and the majestic mountain backdrops are recurring highlights. While the hikes are generally well-loved, some find the popularity leads to significant crowds, and the term 'Four Lakes Hike' can be confusing due to multiple locations.
"A brilliant experience with words falling short to describe it aptly. You have got to here to believe it. A few minutes walk down to the lake and you get mesmerised. A minimum 1 hour stay at the lake side is recommended. Must visit this place at Engelberg. Can do this on the return from the top of mount titlis."
Ajit Narayanankutty
"I was so impressed about this place. Is so kids friendly, there are like 4 playgrounds around the lake which makes the hike easier. I am sure in the summer is even nicer since the snow will not block the playgrounds. Definitely coming back"
Patricea Gutierrez Rea
"Clean water and what a serenity. Swimming is a must. Do a hike to the lake."
Manish Singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Zurich, you can take a train to Engelberg. The hike itself often involves cable cars and chairlifts to access different parts of the trail, making it adaptable to various fitness levels. +1
Access is typically via the Bear Lake Trailhead. Be aware that timed entry permits are often required for RMNP, so book in advance.
Yes, it's possible to do the Engelberg Four Lakes Hike as a day trip from Zurich, but it will be a long day. You'll need to start early and be efficient with your travel and hiking time.
Parking availability varies by location. For Engelberg, parking is available in the village. For RMNP, parking at popular trailheads like Bear Lake fills up very quickly.
In Switzerland, public transport like trains and buses are excellent. For the Engelberg hike, you can utilize local buses and mountain transport. In RMNP, a shuttle system operates during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the hike itself is usually free, you may need to purchase tickets for mountain transport like cable cars or funiculars, especially in Switzerland. For RMNP, an entrance fee is required.
Operating hours for cable cars and funiculars vary by season and specific lift. It's best to check the official websites for Engelberg or the specific mountain resort you're visiting.
Yes, Rocky Mountain National Park has an entrance fee per vehicle. You may also need a timed entry permit during peak season.
Swimming is often possible and encouraged in many of the lakes, particularly in Switzerland, provided conditions are safe and permitted.
Yes, it's possible to hike the entire loop without using cable cars, but this will significantly increase the difficulty and time required. Many visitors opt to use them to tailor the hike to their fitness level.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The duration varies greatly depending on the specific trail and whether you use mountain transport. The Engelberg Four Lakes Hike can take around 4 hours without extensive use of lifts, while the RMNP loop is about 6.2 miles and takes 4-6 hours.
Difficulty ranges from easy to moderate. The Engelberg trail can be tailored using lifts, while the RMNP loop is generally considered moderate. Always check specific trail details.
Many of the Four Lakes Hikes are family-friendly, especially those with playgrounds around the lakes, like in Engelberg. The RMNP loop is also manageable for families.
Expect stunning panoramic mountain vistas, crystal-clear alpine lakes with vibrant colors, and lush green meadows.
Facilities vary. Some popular areas, especially near mountain transport stations or visitor centers, will have restrooms. It's wise to use facilities before starting your hike.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, in popular areas like Engelberg, you'll find mountain restaurants and cafes near the lakes or at lift stations offering refreshments and meals.
Absolutely! Packing a picnic is a great idea to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery. Many visitors do this.
Dining options are limited within the park itself. You'll find more choices in nearby towns like Estes Park. Packing your own food is recommended for the hike.
Definitely! Many mountain restaurants along the routes offer incredible views. Alternatively, find a scenic spot to enjoy your packed lunch.
In Switzerland, look for local cheeses, Rosti (a potato dish), and Swiss chocolate. In Colorado, you might find hearty American fare.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for mountain details. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
Drone regulations vary by park and country. In national parks like RMNP, drone use is generally prohibited. Always check local regulations before flying.
Look for reflections in the lakes, unique rock formations, and panoramic mountain backdrops. The vibrant colors of lakes like Caumasee are particularly striking.
Experiment with different angles, try capturing the scale by including people in your shots, and look for details like wildflowers or wildlife. Drone footage can offer a unique perspective where permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, the Four Lakes Loop is a moderate option, but be prepared for potential crowds and the need for park entrance fees and timed entry permits.🎒 Budget Travelers
and utilizing public transport to reach the starting points. In RMNP, the main cost is the park entrance fee, which is often a good value for a full day of exploration. Look for shoulder seasons (late spring, early fall) when accommodation and transport might be slightly cheaper, and crowds are smaller.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for landscape shots, minimizing harsh shadows. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas and a telephoto lens for mountain details. Where permitted, drone footage can offer unique aerial perspectives of the stunning scenery.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the 'Four Lakes Hike' Maze
+1 and the Four Lakes Loop in Rocky Mountain National Park, USA, which actually encompasses five lakes and offers a classic Colorado mountain experience. Other variations exist, such as the Four Lakes Hike near Flims, Switzerland, featuring the iconic Caumasee, and the Rainbow Lakes Trail in Colorado. Understanding the specific location will dictate travel arrangements, trail difficulty, and expected scenery.Social media often showcases these hikes, but it's important to cross-reference information. For instance, while many TikToks and Instagram reels highlight the beauty of Swiss alpine lakes, Reddit discussions often provide practical advice on logistics, such as whether a day trip from Zurich to Engelberg is feasible.
The Magic of Swiss Alpine Lakes
+1 This flexibility makes it accessible to a wide range of hikers. The lakes themselves, such as Trübsee and Melchsee, are set against the dramatic backdrop of the Titlis massif, providing postcard-perfect views.Another notable Swiss option is the hike near Flims, which includes the Caumasee. This lake is famous for its surreal turquoise waters, which can appear even more vibrant when lower water levels reveal intricate patterns on the lakebed.
The Four Lakes in the Bernese Oberland, easily reachable from Interlaken or Grindelwald, are also frequently featured for their unreal beauty and proximity to each other. These Swiss hikes often involve a combination of hiking and mountain transport, offering a unique way to experience the alpine environment.Rocky Mountain National Park's Lake Gems
This trail is a fantastic way to experience the park's stunning alpine scenery, offering a moderate challenge with significant rewards. The loop is approximately 6.2 miles long and typically takes 4-6 hours to complete, making it a substantial day hike.Visitors often rave about the diverse beauty of each lake, from the accessible Bear Lake to the more secluded Lake Haiyaha. The trail is well-maintained but can be crowded, especially during peak season. Planning ahead is essential, including securing any necessary timed entry permits for RMNP and arriving early to find parking at the popular Bear Lake Trailhead. The rough and bumpy road leading to some trailheads, like the one for Rainbow Lakes Trail, also requires careful driving.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit