5-Seen-Wanderung
5-Seen-Wanderung: A Classic Alpine Hike
5-Seen-Wanderung: A Classic Alpine Hike
Discover five stunning alpine lakes on this classic Swiss hike with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pizol region.
The 5-Seen-Wanderung (Five Lakes Hike) on Pizol mountain is a classic Swiss alpine trail, showcasing five crystal-clear mountain lakes and panoramic views of the eastern Swiss Alps. This moderately challenging hike is a popular destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts alike.
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A brief summary to 5-Seen-Wanderung
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
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Getting There
Public Transport
From the Bad Ragaz train station, take the local bus (Route 456) to the Pizolbahnen valley station. From there, purchase a round-trip ticket for the gondola and chairlifts to Pizolhütte. The bus ride is short, and the gondola/chairlift ticket costs approximately CHF 63 for adults. Alternatively, from Sargans train station, take bus lines 429 or 430 to the Wangs valley station. A free hiking bus is available between the Bad Ragaz and Wangs valley stations from 2 PM onwards.
Driving
From Zurich, take the A3 highway towards Sarganserland and exit at Sargans, following signs for Wangs. There are 500 parking spaces available at the Pizol Bahn in Wangs. Additional 350 outside parking spaces are available with transport by Pizolbahn bus free of charge. From Lake Constance, take the A13 highway towards Sarganserland and exit at Bad Ragaz Nord, following signs to the valley station. Parking is available near the Bad Ragaz valley station.
Local tips
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Start the hike early, no later than 11:00 am, to ensure you have enough time to complete the trail and catch the last chairlift down.
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Purchase your hiking ticket online in advance to avoid long lines at the gondola base station.
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Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring hiking sticks to help with the steep ascents and descents.
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Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for variable conditions, especially in early July when snow may still be present.
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Consider doing a shorter version of the hike by only visiting the first two lakes (Wangsersee and Wildsee) if you have limited time or are hiking with children.
Discover more about 5-Seen-Wanderung
The 5-Seen-Wanderung is a spectacular mountain hike that takes you through an ever-changing alpine landscape, high above the tree line. The trail is known for its five crystal-clear mountain lakes: Wangsersee, Wildsee, Schottensee, Schwarzsee, and Baschalvasee, each offering a unique and picturesque setting. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning views of the eastern Swiss, Grison, and Austrian Alps, including the Pizol glacier, the 2,844m high Pizol summit, and the Graue Hörner.
The hike begins near the Pizolhütte mountain station at 2,227m, accessible by gondola and chairlifts from Wangs or Bad Ragaz. The well-maintained trail covers a distance of approximately 10-11.4 kilometers and typically takes 4-5 hours to complete. While not extremely difficult, the hike involves some steep ascents and descents over rocky terrain, making it suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.
As you traverse the trail, you'll encounter the Wildsee, known for its stunning blue color and glacier-fed waters. The deep-blue Schottensee offers a chance to relax by the water's edge, while the emerald-green Schwarzsee provides opportunities to spot wildlife like ibex, chamois, and eagles. The final lake, Baschalvasee, is a green-colored lake nestled amidst the alpine scenery. The hike concludes with a descent to Station Gaffia, where a mountain railway returns you to Wangs.
A brief summary to 5-Seen-Wanderung
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