The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Obersee
4.6
(4555)
34,008
hikers
122
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Obersee are primarily found along the eastern part of Lake Zurich, offering a landscape characterized by expansive lake views, flat lakeside paths, and low-lying surrounding areas. The region features a mix of open waterfront, natural reserves, and small towns, providing varied scenery for hikers and their dogs. Elevation changes are generally minimal, making many routes accessible and suitable for leisurely walks. The terrain is typically well-maintained, consisting of paved paths, gravel trails, and some natural…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
61
hikers
2.40km
00:36
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
47
hikers
6.34km
01:36
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
36
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
26
hikers
12.7km
03:21
120m
120m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
30
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Much-visited photo stop; view of the castle, formerly monastery complex and part of the harbor.
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The lake on both sides, the city and the castle make for a wonderful panorama. You also forget the very busy Seedammstrasse behind you.
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Also suitable as a short break spot in bad weather, has covered benches.
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Metal bridge over the side canal, for pedestrians and bicycles.
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A very well-known, often photographed bridge.
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A busy but beautiful route across the dam, partly with a wide cycle path. Unfortunately, the section from Hurden to Pfäffikon on the gravel path is now closed to cyclists (until the first accident happens on the main road).
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Wooden Bridge Seedamm-Weg / Route Pfäffikon SZ - Rapperswil SG "A monumental project at the turn of the millennium," inaugurated on April 6, 2001. The narrow passage between Lake Zurich and Lake Obersee has always been used by local residents to cross the water. Until the Middle Ages, this was done by ferry. After Rapperswil was sold to the House of Habsburg-Austria in 1354, Duke Rudolf IV, the Wise, decided to replace the ferry service with a wooden bridge. Completed in 1358, the structure was 1450 meters long and rested on 546 oak piles. It was 12 feet (approximately 4 meters) wide and designed for pedestrians, carts, and livestock. Toll revenues financed construction and maintenance, with the residents of Rapperswil, the monks of Einsiedeln Abbey, and some farmers from the Schwyz territories of Höfe and March being exempt from the bridge toll. The daring structure was also exposed to various dangers. For example, it was repeatedly damaged or even destroyed during wartime events, and natural forces such as waves and storms also took their toll. For this reason, the planks were not nailed to the bridge structure, and there was no railing. This meant that a storm could not tear down the entire bridge; only the loose planks were blown into the lake. Therefore, crossing the bridge was not a safe pleasure for everyone. In 1939/51, the dam was renovated, and the bridges were reinforced to handle the increasing car, truck, and train traffic. A stroll on the dam's sidewalk had long ceased to be enjoyable. Therefore, the idea of a new pedestrian bridge in the form of the old wooden bridge seemed appealing. The new wooden bridge was inaugurated on April 6, 2001. It is the longest wooden bridge in Switzerland (841 m). It rests on a total of 233 piles. Text / Source: City of Rapperswil-Jona, St. Gallerstrasse, Jona https://www.rapperswil-jona.ch/naherholungimfreien/6552
5
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Cozy place with beautiful meadow and shallow lake access
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available around Obersee?
There are over 100 dog-friendly hiking trails around Obersee, offering a wide range of options for you and your canine companion. These routes vary in difficulty, ensuring there's something suitable for every dog and owner.
What types of dog-friendly trails can I find around Obersee?
You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging dog-friendly trails. Many routes feature flat paths along the lake shore, while others venture into slightly more varied terrain. For example, the View of the Obersee – Lakeside path at the Obersee loop from Rapperswil is an easy option perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog.
Are there any easy, circular dog walks around Obersee?
Yes, there are several easy circular routes perfect for dogs. Many trails follow the picturesque shoreline, offering continuous views of the lake. An excellent choice is the Wooden bridge to Fäschtinseli – View of Lake Zurich loop from Rapperswil, which is flat and offers beautiful scenery.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see on dog-friendly hikes?
The dog-friendly trails around Obersee offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. You can explore highlights like the Shore of Lake Obersee and the View of Rapperswil's Old Town and Castle. The famous Wooden Bridge Rapperswil–Hurden is also a popular spot to visit.
Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly routes for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a more strenuous adventure with their dog, there are indeed more challenging options. Routes like the St. Pankraz Bollingen – View over the Obersee loop from Schmerikon offer a longer distance and more varied terrain, suitable for well-conditioned dogs and their owners.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails around Obersee?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Obersee, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful lake views, and the overall dog-friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite for walks with pets.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for families with dogs?
Many of the easier, flatter trails along the lake are ideal for families with dogs. These paths often have gentle gradients and offer plenty of space for both children and dogs to enjoy. The View of Lake Zurich – Hurden Chapel loop from Rapperswil is a great example of a family-friendly route.
Is there good parking available for dog walkers near the trails?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. In popular starting points like Rapperswil and Schmerikon, you can typically find designated parking areas. It's always a good idea to check specific route details on komoot for parking information before you head out.
Can I reach any of the dog-friendly trails by public transport?
Yes, many trailheads around Obersee are accessible by public transport, particularly in towns like Rapperswil and Schmerikon. This allows for flexible planning, especially if you prefer not to drive or want to do a one-way hike.
What is the best time of year to hike with my dog around Obersee?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking with dogs around Obersee, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be lovely, but remember to bring extra water for your dog and be mindful of warmer temperatures, especially on exposed paths. Winter hikes are also possible, but some paths might be icy or snowy.
Are there any specific rules or considerations for dogs on the trails?
While the trails are dog-friendly, it's always important to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature protection areas or when encountering other hikers, cyclists, or wildlife. Always carry waste bags and dispose of them properly to keep the trails clean for everyone.
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