Planet Trail (Uetliberg–Felsenegg) Zurich
Hike through a solar system on Earth! The Planet Trail connects Uetliberg and Felsenegg, offering stunning views and educational fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hike
Planet Trail (Uetliberg–Felsenegg) Zurich
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hike
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through a solar system on Earth! The Planet Trail connects Uetliberg and Felsenegg, offering stunning views and educational fun.
"The panorama from Uetliberg is a perfect example of earning your view."
🚊 Train to the Top
Take the S10 train from Zurich HB directly to Uetliberg station for easy access.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes, especially if hiking from Triemli or Albisgütli, as trails can be steep.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Uetliberg Observation Tower
Uetliberg Summit
Ascend for breathtaking 360-degree views of Zurich, the lake, and the Alps. Absolutely worth the climb!
The Planet Trail (Planetenweg)
Uetliberg to Felsenegg
A unique, educational walk showcasing scaled models of planets in our solar system. Fun for all ages!
Felsenegg Cable Car
Felsenegg to Adliswil
Enjoy scenic descent with panoramic views as you glide down from Felsenegg to Adliswil.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚊 Train to the Top
Take the S10 train from Zurich HB directly to Uetliberg station for easy access.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes, especially if hiking from Triemli or Albisgütli, as trails can be steep.
Uetilberg itinerary help
Hiking Uetliberg in the Winter
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, though there are fountains and a restaurant at Uto Kulm.
🎟️ Day Ticket Advantage
Consider a ZVV day ticket for unlimited travel on trains, trams, and buses.
Uetliberg at evening
Tips
from all over the internet
🚊 Train to the Top
Take the S10 train from Zurich HB directly to Uetliberg station for easy access.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes, especially if hiking from Triemli or Albisgütli, as trails can be steep.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, though there are fountains and a restaurant at Uto Kulm.
🎟️ Day Ticket Advantage
Consider a ZVV day ticket for unlimited travel on trains, trams, and buses.
📸 Capture the Views
The observation tower offers unparalleled photo opportunities.
🍽️ Refuel at Uto Kulm
Enjoy a meal or drink with a view at the restaurant on Uetliberg.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views from Uetliberg's observation tower, calling it a rewarding experience after a hike. The Planet Trail is praised for its educational aspect and suitability for families. Some find the hike up from the base stations more challenging than anticipated.
"If you start at the bottom by the S10 Tremli line… be ready for a serious hike up. It takes a solid hour if you are healthy. The trails zigzag but are well maintained. There are benches to rest on and 3 fountains you can drink from (although one is at the very top). Some amazing views on the hike up… but nothing like the lookout tower which is absolutely worth going up because you can see 360 degrees and see down the other side valley which you can’t from Zurich. Anyway, this is a great hike if you are up to it- and up you will go- for an hour!!"
M Sumner
"There’s a certain satisfaction that comes from earning your view, and the panorama from Uetliberg is a perfect example. We decided to hike up from the Albisgütli tram stop, thinking it would be a pleasant, moderate walk. We were quickly proven wrong. The trail was significantly steeper and more demanding than we had anticipated, turning what we thought would be a casual stroll into a genuinely challenging trek. There were moments on that relentless incline, breathing heavily amidst the dense forest, where we definitely questioned our decision.
But then, you reach a clearing like this one. The trees part just enough to offer a tantalizing preview of the reward waiting at the summit. Through the leaves, you catch your first glimpse of the city of Zürich sprawling below, wrapping itself around the vast, shimmering expanse of Lake Zürich. It’s a perfectly framed teaser that gives you the final push of motivation needed to conquer the rest of the trail.
Reaching the top and finally ascending the observation tower makes all the sweat and effort worthwhile. The partial view from the trail becomes a stunning, unobstructed 360-degree spectacle. Seeing the city, the lake, and the distant Alps spread out before you after that arduous climb is a profoundly rewarding experience, far more memorable than if we had simply taken the train."
Chieh-Sheng Chang
"What a great hike right within Zürich. Accessible by train from main station. Hiked from Uetliberg to the cable car at Felsenegg. Then took train back to Zürich from Adliswil. Took under 2 hours. Hike is made for families as it’s an easy path. You’ll see cyclists too. Walk thru woods and pastures. Stop at the restaurant-Uto Kulm to eat, drink and grab a photo of Zürich and Alps. The Planet theme is cute."
Kelly Caddel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the S10 train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main station) directly to Uetliberg station. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes.
Yes, you can hike up from various points like Triemli or Albisgütli. The hike from Triemli takes about an hour and is well-marked, though it can be steep.
Follow the well-marked Planet Trail (Planetenweg) from Uetliberg summit towards Felsenegg. It's a scenic walk of about 1-1.5 hours.
Take the cable car from Felsenegg down to Adliswil. From Adliswil, you can catch a train back to Zurich.
Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass typically covers the S10 train to Uetliberg. Always double-check coverage for your specific pass.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small admission fee to ascend the Uetliberg Observation Tower for the panoramic views.
The cable car from Felsenegg to Adliswil requires a ticket. Prices can be found on the local transport website (ZVV). A ZVV day ticket often covers this.
The Planet Trail itself is free to walk. The only costs would be for transportation to Uetliberg and potentially the observation tower or cable car.
The tower's opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Uetliberg website for the most up-to-date information.
Train tickets can be purchased at stations or via the SBB app. Cable car tickets are usually available at the Felsenegg station. Online booking for the cable car might be limited.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Planet Trail is a relatively flat, well-maintained path connecting Uetliberg and Felsenegg. It features scaled models of planets, making it an educational and enjoyable walk.
The hike is generally considered moderate. While there are some gentle inclines and declines, it's suitable for most fitness levels and families.
From the tower, you get stunning 360-degree views of Zurich city, Lake Zurich, and on clear days, the Swiss Alps.
Restrooms are available at the Uetliberg train station and at the Uto Kulm restaurant. There are also facilities at the Felsenegg cable car station.
The main Planet Trail is generally accessible, but some sections might be uneven. The path from Uetliberg station to the tower is paved and accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon during the golden hour offers beautiful light for photos. Weekday mornings are also great for fewer people and soft light.
The observation tower provides the most iconic panoramic shots. Also, look for scenic viewpoints along the Planet Trail itself.
Even on cloudy days, the moody atmosphere can create dramatic photos. The Uetliberg tower still offers a unique perspective.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant Alps.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be mindful of private property and any posted signs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking the S10 train up to Uetliberg to save little legs. At Felsenegg, the cable car ride down is also an adventure. There are also playgrounds near Uetliberg and Felsenegg, and the restaurant at Uto Kulm offers kid-friendly options.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and water can also save money. The views from Uetliberg are priceless and don't require an additional fee beyond the tower's small entrance charge.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Planet Trail itself provides unique shots with the planet models set against natural scenery. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views. Even on overcast days, the moody atmosphere can lead to striking photographs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Educational Journey: The Planet Trail
The trail itself is generally well-maintained and offers a moderate hiking experience. It winds through forests and offers occasional glimpses of the surrounding landscape. While the primary focus is the planet models, the journey offers a pleasant walk for those looking to connect with nature. Many visitors appreciate the blend of outdoor activity and learning that the Planetenweg provides.
Key takeaway: The Planet Trail is more than just a hike; it's an accessible outdoor classroom. It’s a highlight for families and anyone interested in a bit of science mixed with their scenic walk. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking for a good portion of the trail.
Reaching the Summit: Uetliberg and its Tower
The Uetliberg Observation Tower is the main attraction for many. For a small fee, you can climb to the top and be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see the entire city of Zurich, the shimmering Lake Zurich, and the majestic Swiss Alps in the distance. This vantage point is significantly different from any view you can get within the city itself, making the ascent highly recommended.
Many visitors emphasize that the effort to reach the summit, whether by train or hike, is absolutely worth it for the unparalleled views. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially during sunset or on clear evenings.
The Descent: Felsenegg and the Cable Car Experience
The cable car is a convenient and enjoyable way to end your journey, especially if you've hiked from Uetliberg. It connects you directly to Adliswil, where you can easily catch a train back to Zurich. The ride is relatively short but offers a pleasant experience, often with fewer crowds than the train up to Uetliberg.
Tip: If you're planning a round trip using public transport, consider purchasing a ZVV day ticket, which often covers the cable car and trains, offering good value.
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