Background

5-Seen-Wanderung: A Classic Alpine Hike

Hike through stunning alpine scenery on the Pizol's 5-Seen-Wanderung, a classic Swiss trail featuring five crystal-clear mountain lakes.

4.7
A question is required

The 5-Seen-Wanderung (Five Lakes Hike) on Pizol is a classic Swiss mountain trail showcasing five crystal-clear alpine lakes and panoramic views of the eastern Swiss Alps. This moderately challenging hike offers stunning scenery and a memorable experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

A brief summary to 5-Seen-Wanderung

Local tips

  • Purchase the 5-Seen-Wanderung hiking ticket online in advance to avoid long queues at the gondola base station.
  • Start the hike before 11:00 am to ensure you have enough time to complete the trail and catch the last chairlift down.
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring hiking poles, as some sections of the trail are steep and rocky.
  • Pack layers of clothing, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited opportunities to purchase refreshments along the trail.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bad Ragaz train station, take bus 456 to the Bad Ragaz, Pizolbahn stop. From Sargans train station, take bus 429 or 430 to the Wangs, Pizolbahn stop. From either valley station (Bad Ragaz or Wangs), purchase a 5-Seen-Wanderung ticket. This ticket includes the gondola ride from Wangs to Furt, the chairlift from Furt to Gaffia, and the chairlift from Gaffia to Pizolhütte, where the hike begins. The ticket also covers the return journey from Gaffia back to Wangs. In 2024, the 5-Lake Trail ticket costs CHF 52 for adults. Check the Pizolbahnen website for current pricing. A free hiking bus operates between the Bad Ragaz and Wangs valley stations from 2:00 pm in good weather.

  • Driving

    To reach the Bad Ragaz gondola, drive to Loisstrasse 50, 7310 Bad Ragaz. To reach the Wangs gondola, drive to Schiggstrasse 30, 7323 Vilters-Wangs. There is a large metered parking lot next to the Bad Ragaz gondola station, costing CHF 5 per day. Wangs also offers 500 parking spaces, with an additional 350 outside parking spaces with transport by Pizolbahn bus free of charge.

Unlock the Best of 5-Seen-Wanderung

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

q

Discover more about 5-Seen-Wanderung

The 5-Seen-Wanderung, or Five Lakes Hike, is a celebrated mountain trail located on Pizol mountain in eastern Switzerland. This scenic route takes hikers past five distinct alpine lakes, each offering its own unique charm and breathtaking views. The trail is considered a classic Swiss hike, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and moderately challenging terrain. The hike typically begins near the Pizolhütte, accessible via a series of gondolas and chairlifts from Wangs. From there, the well-marked path winds through an ever-changing alpine landscape, showcasing the stunning vistas of the eastern Swiss, Grison, and Austrian Alps. The five lakes encountered along the route are the Wangsersee, Wildsee, Schottensee, Schwarzsee, and Baschalvasee. Each lake possesses its own unique character. The Wildsee, known as the "wild lake", is a stunningly blue, glacier-fed lake. The Schottensee offers deep-blue waters, while the Schwarzsee provides a darker, more mysterious ambiance. The Baschalvasee, the final lake, is known for its green hue. Throughout the hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including ibex, chamois, and eagles. The 5-Seen-Wanderung is a popular trail, so expect to share the path with other hikers. The best time to embark on this adventure is during the summer and autumn months, typically from May to November, depending on weather conditions. Be sure to check the Pizol website for current operating times and trail conditions before heading out.

Popular Experiences near 5-Seen-Wanderung

Popular Hotels near 5-Seen-Wanderung

Select Currency