Top 20 Lakes around Braunwald
Best lakes around Braunwald offers access to a diverse alpine landscape in the Glarus Alps. This region is characterized by its mountain lakes, some of which are natural and others reservoirs, nestled within valleys and high-altitude settings. The area provides opportunities for exploring natural monuments and man-made structures integrated into the environment. Its geography supports various outdoor activities centered around water features.
Best lakes around Braunwald
- The most popular lakes is Lake Klöntal, a natural monument and reservoir that features a fjord-like landscape. It is popular for hiking, swimming, and camping, with a well-developed hiking trail around its perimeter.
- Another must-see spot is Glattalpsee, a family-friendly lake and natural monument. This beautiful hiking area is accessible via the Glattalp-Bahn, and a circuit around the lake is feasible for families.
- Visitors also love Klöntalersee, an impressive big mountain lake lined by huge peaks. Its quiet and clear water makes it an excellent natural spot for relaxation and enjoyment.
- Braunwald is known for its natural mountain lakes and significant reservoirs. Visitors can explore a variety of water bodies, from serene natural pools to large-scale engineering marvels like the Muttsee Reservoir.
- The lakes around Braunwald are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 880 upvotes and over 270 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Klöntalersee
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Oberblegisee
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Lake Klöntal
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Glattalpsee
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Muttsee Reservoir
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Very nice destination for road cycling but also mountain biking.
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The Muttsee (formerly Mutten See, Muttensee) is a reservoir on the Muttenalp in the southernmost part of the municipality of Glarus South in the canton of Glarus in Switzerland.
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In 1957, the newly founded Kraftwerke Linth-Limmern AG (KLL) began to realize the power plants that had been planned since the beginning of the 1940s by the Nordostschweizerische Kraftwerke (NOK), into which the Muttensee was to be integrated.
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Until 1917, the official name was "Mutten See", then the spelling "Muttensee" appeared. From 1963, the spelling "Muttsee" appeared. The Hühnerbühl is now known in dialect as Hüenderbüel.[3] The kidney-shaped mountain lake was about 1000 meters long and 400 to 500 meters wide. On the Muttenalp plateau known as Hühnerbühl, it covered an area of about 42 hectares. The height of the lake surface was given as 2442 m until 1899, and 2448 m from 1900 to 1962. In the southeast, the lake was drained by a stream, which after a few hundred meters, at about 2400 m, disappeared into the Muttsee cave in the karst subsoil of the Muttenalp.[6] A little to the south, from about 2450 m, the Muttenbach collected the snow water from the Latten via various small tributaries.[5] It led this into the Limmernbach via the Mörthal and the Ochsenblanken.
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The lake is registered in the cantonal landscape register as a landscape of regional importance.[4] In the karst area of the Muttenalp there are - in addition to the Muttsee cave and the Muttsee hut - various other small lakes, most of them distributed southwest of the Muttsee over the Hüenderbüel. The largest neighbor, the Ober See, lies north of the Muttsee at 2474 m. It is the only lake on the Muttenalp that is connected to the Muttsee via its outflow.
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The lake is located at the crossing from Linthal-Tierfehd over the Kistenpass to Brigels. It lies in the 2.95 square kilometer basin of the Muttenalp above the Hüenderbüel. The alp is surrounded by high mountains such as Nüschenstock (2892 m) in the west, Rüchi (2849 m) in the northwest, Hinter Sulzhorn (2737 m) in the northeast, Ruchi (3105 m) in the east and Muttenstock (3088 m) in the southeast. The arena opens to the southwest. It drops steeply over the Muttenwand into the Limmerental and over the Muttenchopf (2482 m) to the Limmerensee.
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As part of significant expansion measures for the power plants between 2009 and 2017, the dam built in 1963 was replaced by a concrete dam wall. This has a length of 1054 meters, making it the longest dam wall in Switzerland. The water level reaches a height of 2474 m when fully filled. This makes the Muttsee the highest reservoir in Switzerland, with a capacity of more than 10 million m³. The highest reservoir under the supervision of the federal authorities is the Viderjoch reservoir in the Silvretta Arena, which lies at 2664 m.[1][2] Since 2021, the largest alpine photovoltaic system in Switzerland has been under construction on the dam wall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes around Braunwald?
Yes, several lakes in the Braunwald region are ideal for families. Glattalpsee is a beautiful natural monument with a circuit trail that is feasible for families, easily accessible via the Glattalp-Bahn. Klöntalersee also offers family-friendly activities like swimming and camping, with a well-developed hiking trail around its perimeter.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Braunwald?
The lakes around Braunwald are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including moderate options like the "Panoramic hike Braunwald in Glarnerland" or more challenging routes. There are also running trails and road cycling routes available. For detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Braunwald, Running Trails around Braunwald, and Road Cycling Routes around Braunwald guides.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Braunwald?
The summer months are generally the best time to visit the lakes around Braunwald, especially for activities like hiking, swimming, and camping. During this period, the weather is typically pleasant, and trails are clear. However, be aware that popular spots like Klöntalersee can get crowded on weekends.
Are there any quiet spots for relaxation around the lakes?
Yes, if you're looking for tranquility, Oberblegisee is known as a beautiful and quiet mountain lake, perfect for relaxing and cooling off. Its serene atmosphere and the striking contrast with the Glärnisch mountain wall make it a peaceful retreat. Klöntalersee also offers quiet, clear waters for enjoyment, especially away from the most crowded areas.
What should I wear for hiking around Braunwald lakes in summer?
For summer hiking around Braunwald lakes, it's advisable to wear layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are essential. Bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a waterproof jacket, and plenty of water. If you plan to swim, pack swimwear and a towel.
Are there any challenging mountain routes near the lakes?
Yes, the Braunwald region offers challenging mountain routes. Klöntalersee serves as a starting point for more demanding mountain tours, including ascents towards Glärnisch. You can find difficult hiking and running trails in the area, such as the "Braunwald village – Oberblegisee loop from Braunwald" for hiking or the "Panoramatrail Braunwald" for trail running. Consult the Hiking around Braunwald guide for more options.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes around Braunwald?
Yes, several lakes in the Braunwald area are suitable for wild swimming. Klöntalersee is a popular spot for swimming, known for its quiet and clear water. Oberblegisee also offers opportunities for cooling off in its beautiful mountain waters.
Are there any man-made structures or engineering marvels related to the lakes?
Yes, the region features significant reservoirs that are also engineering marvels. The Muttsee Reservoir is particularly notable, featuring Switzerland's longest dam wall at 1054 meters. It is also the highest reservoir in Switzerland under federal supervision, with a capacity of over 10 million cubic meters. The dam wall also hosts the largest alpine photovoltaic system in Switzerland.
How can I access Glattalpsee?
Glattalpsee is easily accessible via the Glattalp-Bahn. This makes it a convenient destination for families and those looking for a less strenuous approach to a beautiful alpine lake.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Braunwald?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the diverse landscape. Many are fascinated by the fjord-like scenery of Klöntalersee and its clear, inviting waters. The peaceful atmosphere of lakes like Oberblegisee and the family-friendly trails around Glattalpsee are also highly appreciated. The region's blend of natural monuments and impressive man-made structures like the Muttsee Reservoir also draws significant interest.
Are there circular walks around the lakes?
Yes, there are circular walks available. A well-developed hiking trail allows you to circumnavigate Klöntalersee. Similarly, a circuit around Glattalpsee is feasible and popular, especially for families.
Are there cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
While the guide data doesn't specify individual cafes or restaurants directly at each lake, popular areas like Klöntalersee, being a well-visited tourist spot with camping opportunities, typically have facilities or establishments nearby. For specific dining options, it's recommended to check local listings or tourist information for the Braunwald region.
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