Dimitri Burkhard
Switzerland isn't just runner-friendly; it's a runner's paradise!
From pristine mountain trails to urban routes alongside rivers and lakes, and from Finnish trails dotted throughout forests to the publicly accessible 400 m running tracks, you will never get bored of running in Switzerland.
The inclusive running culture welcomes everyone from beginners to marathoners, with local communities often organizing group runs to connect people. The Swiss believe that staying healthy isn't only about physical health, but also about community and mental health.
I'm glad you've discovered our guide to running in Switzerland! Take the first step to pick up this healthy hobby.
- Running Infrastructure in Switzerland
- Types of Running Experiences in Switzerland
- Major Running Events in Switzerland
- Running in Major Swiss Cities
- Practical Tips for Running in Switzerland
- Gear Recommendations for Running in Switzerland
- Training Resources and Running Communities
- FAQ About Running in Switzerland
Running Infrastructure in Switzerland
Vitaparcours: Switzerland's Unique Fitness Trails
Vitaparcours are a distinctly Swiss invention, created in 1969 by Swiss architect Erwin Weckemann with support from the Swiss life insurance company "Vita." These fitness trails combine running with strength and flexibility exercises, offering a complete workout in natural settings.
Each vitaparcours features various stations with equipment for different exercises, including chin-up bars, stepping logs, and parallel bars. Some obstacles are natural, while others are man-made, all designed to promote overall fitness and health.
The first vitaparcours was actually built in Zurich. But today, there are hundreds of these fitness trails throughout Switzerland. Three vitaparcours within easy reach of Zurich are Zürich-Uetliberg, Zürich-Käferberg, and Zürich-Fluntern.
Finnish Trails (Finnenbahnen)
Finnish trails, or Finnenbahnen as they're called in German, are another popular running option in Switzerland. These paths are typically covered with wood chips, providing a softer surface that reduces impact on joints while running.
The Finnish trails are particularly popular for barefoot or minimalist running, offering a unique sensory experience as you connect with nature. The soft, cushioned surface is especially pleasant after rainfall when the wood chips release their natural aroma.
Public Running Tracks
Switzerland's commitment to accessible fitness is further demonstrated by its numerous public 400-meter running tracks. These professional-quality facilities are open to everyone and often located near public transportation, making them easily accessible for urban dwellers.
Types of Running Experiences in Switzerland
Mountain Trail Running
Hands down, the Swiss Alps create one of the world's most spectacular settings for trail running. With over 65,000 kilometers of marked hiking paths, the Swiss mountains offer endless possibilities for trail runners.
Imagine running alongside a glacier, traversing a ridge path, or jogging between reflecting mountain lakes. The terrain in Switzerland is really diverse, so it's crucial for trail runners to assess their skill level before embarking on a run. Mountain trails follow yellow signposts or red/white painted signs.
The popularity of trail running in Switzerland is evident from the growing number of trail running events held each year. Some good mountain tracks are in Alpstein, Bettmeralp, or Bergün.
Urban Running
Swiss cities offer unique urban running experiences with their compact layouts and seamless integration with nature. Lace up your running shoes and discover Switzerland's urban centers at a perfect pace - not too slow to waste time, but not too fast to miss the details.
What makes urban running in Switzerland special is the harmonious blend of city and nature. A refreshing lake or river is always nearby, green parks alternate with modern architecture, and cultural and historical landmarks appear around every corner.
The short distances and excellent public transportation in Swiss cities mean you can create routes of any length, with the option to take public transport back to your starting point if needed.
Barefoot Running
For those interested in a more natural running experience, Switzerland offers ideal locations for barefoot or minimalist running. Finnish trails with their wood chip surfaces provide a gentle introduction to barefoot running.
The best time to try barefoot running is shortly after rainfall when the path is slightly damp, creating a soft, pleasant sensation underfoot.
You have to be brave to go completely barefoot as the wood chips can be a little rough, but I promise that you will enjoy it. As an alternative, try the barefoot hike in Appenzell.
If you're not into the sensation, opt for minimalist footwear like Vibram Fivefingers that provide basic protection while still allowing for natural foot movement.
Major Running Events in Switzerland
Switzerland hosts numerous running events throughout the year, attracting both amateur and professional runners from around the world.
| Event Name | Location | Distance | Month | Terrain Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zürich Marathon | Zürich | 42.2 km | April | Urban/ Lakeside |
| Lausanne Marathon | Lausanne | 42.2 km | October | Urban/ Lakeside |
| Jungfrau Marathon | Interlaken to Kleine Scheidegg | 42.2 km | September | Mountain |
| Geneva Marathon | Geneva | 42.2 km | May | Urban/ Lakeside |
| Swiss Alpine Marathon | Davos | Various (K78, K42, K21) | July | Mountain |
| Bern Grand Prix | Bern | 10 miles | May | Urban |
| Sierre-Zinal | Sierre to Zinal | 31 km | August | Mountain |
| Escalade | Geneva | Various | December | Urban |
| Lucerne Marathon | Lucerne | 42.2 km | October | Urban/ Lakeside |
| Engadin Marathon | St. Moritz to S-chanf | 42.2 km | March | Snow (cross- country skiing) |
Running in Major Swiss Cities
Running in Zürich
As Switzerland's largest city, Zürich offers diverse running options for all preferences. The city's efficient public transportation system makes it easy to access various running locations.
Track Running in Zürich
Just over 10 minutes from Zürich's main station by public transport is the Sihlhölzli running track, a 400-meter track open to the public. You can practice solo or join group sessions organized by local running clubs like TV Unterstrass, which offers track sessions twice weekly on Monday and Thursday evenings.
Trail Running in Zürich
For trail running enthusiasts, both Uetliberg and Zürichberg offer numerous routes through beautiful natural surroundings. Flora and fauna line your path, and lucky runners might even spot wild deer. These trails provide a perfect escape from urban life without leaving the city.
The Green Marathon in Zürich is a 42-kilometer running track through the city, open year-round and free of charge. This trail is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with Zürich while passing by sports complexes, running tracks, and the city's most beautiful sights.
Barefoot Running in Zürich
Irchelpark, just 15 minutes from the Zurich main station on Tram 14, has a Finnish trail ideal for barefoot or minimalist running.
Vitaparcours in Zürich
These fitness trails combine running with strength exercises in natural settings. There are at least three vitaparcours within easy reach of Zürich center:
- Zürich-Uetliberg
- Zürich-Käferberg
- Zürich-Fluntern
Running in Bern
Switzerland's capital offers unique running experiences through its medieval Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Aare River Loop
The most popular running route in Bern follows the Aare River in a loop around the city center. This route of approximately 10 km provides a unique perspective of the old town. And then, there are the banks of the emerald Aare River with a refreshing climate throughout the run.
Rose Garden and Bern Bear Park
For runners who enjoy elevation gain, the route from the Aare River up to the popular Rose Garden (Rosengarten) provides a good workout with the reward of panoramic views over the city. Extend your run to include the Bear Park (Bärenpark), home to Bern's symbolic animals.
Gurten Hill
For a challenging trail run, head to Gurten, Bern's local mountain. A run to the summit at 864 meters above sea level offers another good workout. (Bern seems about ups and downs when it comes to running...)
But then, the rewards are plentiful: From Gurten Hill, you will overlook the old town across. And on clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of the Bernese Alps!
For detailed running routes in Bern, visit Bern Tourism's running page.
Running in Geneva
Geneva, with its iconic lake and international atmosphere, provides runners with scenic routes and excellent infrastructure.
The centerpiece of running in Geneva is undoubtedly Lake Geneva (Lac Léman). The lakeside promenade offers flat, scenic running with views of the famous Jet d'Eau water fountain and the surrounding Alps.
Parc La Grange and Parc des Eaux-Vives
These adjacent parks on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva provide beautiful running paths through manicured gardens, with rose gardens, ancient trees, and cultural monuments adding interest to your run.
Rhône and Arve Rivers
Follow the blue waters of the Rhône River as it flows from Lake Geneva through the city, or explore the more natural banks of the Arve River. The confluence of these two rivers (La Jonction) is a unique natural spectacle where the clear blue waters of the Rhône meet the milky, sediment-rich waters of the Arve.
Mont Salève
Though technically in France, Mont Salève is considered Geneva's local mountain and offers challenging trail running with rewarding views over Geneva, the lake, and toward the Mont Blanc massif.
For detailed running routes in Geneva, check out Geneva Tourism's running guide.
Practical Tips for Running in Switzerland
Weather Considerations
Switzerland has four distinct seasons, each offering different running conditions. Here is a general overview for most of the flatlands. Keep in mind that the weather depends a lot on the elevation. For instance, it is possible to have snowfall in the middle of summer at 2000 meters above sea.
- Spring (Mar - May): Variable weather with occasional rain; blooming landscapes may cause allergies
- Summer (Jun - Aug): Warm temperatures, ideal for early morning or evening runs
- Autumn (Sep - Nov): Mild temperatures and colorful foliage
- Winter (Dec - Feb): Cold with possible snow; proper gear required
If you're going running in the mountains, make sure to research the weather. Changing conditions are one of the hazards you may encounter in the Alps. Rely on MeteoSwiss as an up-to-date source for Swiss weather.
Hydration
Switzerland has an abundance of public drinking fountains, especially in urban areas. The water is clean and safe to drink, so you can travel light and refill your bottle along your route.
Running Etiquette
- Respect hiking trail designations; some paths are primarily for hikers.
- On shared paths, be considerate of other users. Slow down, make space, and call out a greeting.
- Follow local rules for trail access and stay on marked path to protect the environment.
- Beware of dogs - and cows! During summer months, you might encounter guard dogs protecting the livestock. Familiarize yourself with the areas being guarded. If you come too close to their offspring, protective mother cows might attack you. Make a detour around pastures with signs showing mother cows.
- After entering or exiting a pasture, always close the gate behind you.
Safety
- For mountain trail running, check weather forecasts on MeteoSwiss, and download trails on the swisstopo app for offline use
- Inform someone of your planned route when running in remote areas
- Carry a charged mobile phone with emergency contacts
- Carry the REGA air ambulance card and remember the phone number: 1414
- Consider appropriate insurance coverage, especially for mountain activities
Gear Recommendations for Running in Switzerland
Mountain Trail Running
- Trail running shoes with good grip
- Lightweight poles to tackle steeper climbs
- Lightweight backpack with emergency supplies, incl. extra sunscreen, headlamp
- Plenty of water
- Weather-appropriate layers, incl. gloves, wind breaker, or rain jacket as conditions can change quickly in the mountains
- Navigation tools (maps, GPS device, and swisstopo mobile app)
Urban Running
- Comfortable running shoes suitable for pavement
- Reflective gear for early morning or evening runs
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing appropriate for the season
Winter Running
- Thermal layers
- Gloves and hat
- Shoes with good traction for potentially icy conditions
- Visibility gear for shorter daylight hours
Training Resources and Running Communities
Switzerland has a vibrant running community with numerous clubs and groups welcoming runners of all levels:
- Swiss Athletics - The national athletics federation
- ALPSinsight - Resource for trail running, incl. events
- Local running stores, such as Markus Ryffels, often organize group runs and can provide information about local clubs
Many cities have English-speaking running groups that welcome expatriates and visitors, making it easy to connect with fellow runners even if you're new to the area.
Are you ready to lace up and start running in Switzerland?
I can say this from experience: Switzerland is a legitimate runner's paradise. How many other places can offer up running experiences from urban lakeshores to alpine trails?
Whether you're training for a competitive event or simply enjoying recreational running, Switzerland provides the perfect backdrop for running. Lace up your shoes and join the pack!
Sylvia
Shirley Michael
