Swiss National Park Trail
A network of strictly regulated marked trails through Switzerland's oldest national park, known for exceptional wildlife viewing.
Route overview
The Swiss National Park in the Engadin region of Graubünden is the oldest national park in the Alps, established in 1914, and is managed under strict conservation rules that confine all visitors to a defined network of marked trails. Straying off the marked paths is prohibited to protect the park's ecosystem. The trail network links valleys such as Val Trupchun, well known for chances to see red deer, chamois and ibex, particularly during the autumn rutting season. Trails range from gentle valley walks to more demanding routes climbing to passes such as Fuorcla Val Sassa. Most visitors combine several marked routes over one or more days based at villages such as Zernez or S-chanf, using the park's visitor centre for current trail conditions and wildlife information.
Trail facts
- Country
- Switzerland
- Region
- Engadin, Graubünden
- Distance
- c. 15–20 km (per day route; network of marked trails)
- Typical duration
- 1 day (network allows multi-day combinations)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- c. 800 m cumulative
- Best season
- June–October
- Trail type
- Day walk network
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No permit required for day trails; visitors must remain on marked paths by park regulation.
Safety context
Visitors must stay on marked trails at all times by park regulation. Weather at higher trail sections can change quickly even in summer.
Off-trail walking and wild camping are strictly prohibited within the park; this is more restrictive than most other Alpine hiking areas.
Highlights
Val Trupchun wildlife viewing Red deer rutting season in autumn Fuorcla Val Sassa high pass Strictly protected old-growth alpine forest
Why find a buddy
Wildlife-focused hiking is often more rewarding shared, with a partner helping to spot animals and share the visitor-centre planning for the day's route.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.