Jöriseen
Discover Jöriseen, a hidden alpine gem in Switzerland featuring stunning glacial lakes with vibrant blue hues and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Snow-free trails, vibrant colors
Jöriseen
Best Time
Snow-free trails, vibrant colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Jöriseen, a hidden alpine gem in Switzerland featuring stunning glacial lakes with vibrant blue hues and breathtaking mountain vistas.
"Jaw-dropping views and a challenging hike make Jöriseen an unforgettable Swiss alpine experience."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The Wägerhus parking lot fills up fast! Aim to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
🥾 Trail Difficulty & Options
The T3 trail has secured sections. Consider an out-and-back if you're wary of heights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Jöriseen Lakes
Jörital
Stunning glacial lakes with vibrant blue hues, fed by the Jöri glacier. Each lake offers a unique shade of blue.
Winterlücke Panorama
Near Jöriseen
Breathtaking panoramic views from Winterlücke, offering a stunning vista of the surrounding alpine landscape.
Challenging Alpine Trail
Jöriseen loop
An exhilarating 11km loop hike with secured sections, rewarding hikers with unparalleled alpine beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Jöriseen
Navigating the Jöriseen Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The Wägerhus parking lot fills up fast! Aim to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
🥾 Trail Difficulty & Options
The T3 trail has secured sections. Consider an out-and-back if you're wary of heights.
☁️ Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Always check the forecast before heading out.
💧 Glacial Lake Colors
The lakes' stunning blue colors are due to glacial water. Each lake has a slightly different shade.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The Wägerhus parking lot fills up fast! Aim to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
🥾 Trail Difficulty & Options
The T3 trail has secured sections. Consider an out-and-back if you're wary of heights.
☁️ Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Always check the forecast before heading out.
💧 Glacial Lake Colors
The lakes' stunning blue colors are due to glacial water. Each lake has a slightly different shade.
🚎 Public Transport Option
Take the PostBus from Davos to Wägerhus if you prefer not to drive.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Jöriseen is lauded for its breathtakingly beautiful glacial lakes and stunning alpine scenery, offering a rewarding hiking experience. While the challenging T3 trail with secured sections is a highlight for many, some find it demanding, especially if not well-prepared or if they have a fear of heights. Parking can be an issue, so early arrival is advised.
"Drive or take a PostBus from Davos to Wägerhus (about 10 min from Davos). Parking is limited, and bus service runs sparingly
The classic 11 km circular trail departs from the Wägerhus Postauto stop on Flüelapassstrasse, ascending roughly 900 m, and takes about 4.5–5 hours (including breaks) The route can be tackled in either direction—many prefer counterclockwise for a gentler ascent.
The views are jaw dropping, but I don't want to spoil you too much"
Alexandre Grüninger
"A very nice round-trip hike just outside Davos. We parked at Wägerhus, but it is also possible to take the bus there. If you arrive by car, be sure to arrive relatively early, especially in high season. We got there on a Sunday in early September at around 11 o’clock and got the second to last parking spot.
We did the round-trip in counter-clockwise direction and I would recommend that. That way, you ascend the steepest and most difficult section near Jöriflüelafurgga. On the downside, you do the most difficult section—secured by a rope but still requires some sure-footedness (see photo in the review of Phil Savanee)—at the end of the hike, so turning back is not really an option. The path near Winterlücke is steep but not technically difficult and the hike around the lakes themselves was very pleasant and relaxing. The entire hike took us nearly five hours and we did not take long breaks.
All in all I would absolutely recommend this to anyone with some experience hiking in the Swiss Alps. The terrain is challenging in parts, but not too much, and the reward is more than worth it. The lakes are gorgeous and the many wild flowers growing on the plateau took me by surprise.
If you are unsure about the roped passage (I myself am not great with heights and felt a little uncomfortable there, though I managed because it was a very short passage) consider going up through Winterlücke, descending to the lakes and returning the same way. That way you can still see the lakes and it is much easier.
Link to the full round-trip hike (T3 hiking grade scale): https://wegwandern.ch/wanderung/joeriseen-rundwanderung-davos-flueelapass-wandern/"
Nathalie Reckinger
"Just wow. Beautiful, stunning. Not too long but still quite challenging. Worth it!"
Laura Costa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive or take the PostBus from Davos to Wägerhus, located on the Flüelapassstrasse. The drive is about 10 minutes. Parking at Wägerhus is limited and fills up quickly, so arriving early is recommended, especially during peak season.
Yes, there is parking at Wägerhus, the starting point for the hike. However, it is limited and can fill up very quickly, particularly on weekends and during high season. Arriving early is crucial if you plan to drive.
Absolutely! You can take the PostAuto (bus) from Davos to the Wägerhus stop on the Flüelapassstrasse. This is a good alternative if you want to avoid parking hassles.
The main access point for the classic circular trail is the Wägerhus Postauto stop on the Flüelapassstrasse. From here, you can begin the hike.
The drive from Davos to Wägerhus is approximately 10 minutes. If you take the PostBus, the travel time will be slightly longer depending on the schedule.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to hike the Jöriseen trails. The experience is free to access.
The primary cost would be for parking if you drive, or for the PostBus fare if you use public transport. The hike itself is free.
Jöriseen is an outdoor natural attraction, so it is accessible at any time. However, the best and safest times to visit are during daylight hours, especially when the trails are clear of snow.
While there isn't a specific mention of official guided tours for Jöriseen, local hiking guides in the Davos area might offer excursions. It's also a popular route for solo hikers.
The best time to visit Jöriseen is typically from mid-July to mid-September, as this is when the trails are usually free of snow and the lakes are most accessible and beautiful.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The classic 11km circular trail is rated T3 on the Swiss hiking scale, meaning it's moderately difficult. It involves some steep ascents, descents, and sections secured with ropes and chains, requiring sure-footedness.
The classic 11km circular hike typically takes about 4.5 to 5 hours, including breaks. Some visitors have reported it taking up to 8 hours if they are not very fit.
Yes, there are technically challenging sections, particularly the ascent to Jöriflüläfurgga, which is secured with chains. Some hikers also mention a roped passage that requires sure-footedness.
Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the varied terrain. Layers of clothing are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly. Bring rain gear and sun protection.
Yes, the circular trail can be tackled in either direction. Many prefer counter-clockwise for a gentler ascent, though this means the most challenging section comes at the end.
📸 📸 Photography
The Jöriseen lakes themselves are incredibly photogenic, with their vibrant blue colors. The panoramic views from Winterlücke are also stunning. Capture the reflections of the mountains in the water. 
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful light for photography, with softer shadows. However, the vibrant blue of the lakes is striking throughout the day.
Absolutely! Jöriseen offers dramatic alpine landscapes, colorful glacial lakes, and sweeping panoramas, making it a dream location for landscape photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lakes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant peaks. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the blue of the water and sky.
The area around the lakes offers numerous viewpoints. The panorama from Winterlücke is a must-see. Also, explore the different angles around each of the Jöriseen lakes for unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the out-and-back option to the lakes as a less strenuous alternative. This allows you to experience the beauty of the Jöriseen without tackling the most difficult parts of the loop. Ensure children are well-equipped with appropriate footwear and clothing, and always supervise them closely on the trail.
⛰️ Experienced Hikers & Adventurers
For those seeking an extra thrill, consider tackling the loop in either direction to experience different ascents and descents. The panoramic views from Winterlücke are a highlight, and the opportunity to photograph the unique glacial lakes makes it a photographer's paradise.
+1📸 Photographers
+1Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vast landscapes and a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the water and sky. The changing light throughout the day can create different moods, so consider visiting during the golden hours for particularly magical photos. The secured sections of the trail also offer unique perspectives for adventurous photographers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Jöriseen Lakes
These lakes are a major draw for hikers and photographers alike. The vibrant colors are particularly captivating on sunny days, reflecting the surrounding peaks and sky. The unique geological formation and the constant replenishment by glacial meltwater contribute to their ever-changing, yet consistently beautiful, appearance.
Visiting the Jöriseen is an experience that immerses you in raw alpine beauty. The journey to reach them is as rewarding as the destination itself, offering a true taste of the Swiss Alps' natural splendor.
Navigating the Jöriseen Hiking Trail
A key feature of this hike is the presence of secured sections, including a part with ropes and chains, particularly on the ascent to Jöriflüläfurgga. While many hikers find these manageable, those with a fear of heights or who are less experienced might find them daunting. Some reviews suggest that tackling the loop counter-clockwise can lead to a gentler initial ascent, but the most challenging secured section comes towards the end of the hike.
For those who prefer to avoid the more exposed sections, an alternative is to hike to the lakes and return via the same path. This allows you to still witness the beauty of the Jöriseen without encountering the more technical parts of the full loop. Regardless of the chosen route, proper hiking gear, including sturdy boots, is essential.
Best Times and Conditions for Visiting
However, mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. It's crucial to check the weather forecast thoroughly before your trip, as conditions can change rapidly at high altitudes. Sunny days offer the most spectacular views of the lakes' vibrant colors, but be prepared for potential rain or even early snow in late September.
Crowds can be a factor, especially on weekends. To avoid the busiest times and secure parking at Wägerhus, it's highly recommended to arrive early in the morning. Visiting on a weekday can also offer a more serene experience.
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