Hiking with a Dog in Zurich: The Best Spring Routes

Spring in Zurich is prime hiking season — and there's no reason to leave your dog at home. The hills around the lake are at their greenest, the trails are dry, and on May 3, 2026 the ZVV kicks off the official Zurich Wander-Opening on the Pfannenstiel. Here are four dog-friendly routes and everything you need to know before heading out.

Leash Rules: What You Need to Know First

Seasonal forest leash rule: April 1 to July 31

Since 2023, Canton Zurich requires dogs to be kept on a leash in forests and within 50 metres of the forest edge — every year from April 1 to July 31. The rule protects ground-nesting birds and young wildlife (deer fawns, young hares) during breeding season.

Outside of forested areas, dogs can run freely — as long as they're well-behaved and not disturbing other hikers or wildlife.

Is your dog registered?

If your dog isn't yet registered with your municipality and in AMICUS, take care of that first — fines apply for unregistered dogs. You'll also need active liability insurance with minimum CHF 1,000,000 coverage. See our guide to registering your dog in Zurich for the step-by-step process.

Route 1 — Pfannenstiel: Views, Open Trails, Easy Terrain

The Pfannenstiel plateau sits at around 850 metres and offers one of the most rewarding hikes around Zurich. The classic route Egg – Pfannenstiel – Meilen combines forest paths, open meadows, and panoramic views over Lake Zurich and the Alps.

Wander-Opening, May 3, 2026: The ZVV officially opens the hiking season here — a free public event. Dogs are welcome. Details: ZVV Wander-Opening 2026.

Getting there: S-Bahn to Egg (S14), then on foot; or S-Bahn to Meilen (S7) and up from the lake.

For current route stats (distance, elevation): Swiss Federal Topographic Map has all official Swiss hiking trails and elevation data.

Route 2 — Zürichberg: Forest Trails from the City

The Zürichberg is the most accessible of the four — reachable by tram in 15 minutes from the city centre. The forest has a network of quiet trails, plus designated off-leash areas (Hundezonen) where dogs can run freely outside the seasonal leash-zone periods.

Note: The forest areas still fall under the seasonal leash rule (April 1 – July 31). The off-leash zones are in open areas outside the forest boundary.

Getting there: Tram 6 to Zoo or Zürichbergstrasse; tram 9/10 to Hegibachplatz.

Route 3 — Greifensee: Flat, Calm, Dog Swimming

The Greifensee circuit east of Zurich is the most relaxed of these four routes — almost no elevation change, wide lake views, and dogs can often enter the water along the shore. Parts of the shoreline are nature reserves, so keep dogs leashed near reed beds and marked wildlife areas.

Check signs on-site for the current rules on each section. Great for older dogs, small dogs, or family hikes with children.

Getting there: S-Bahn to Uster (S3/S9) or Schwerzenbach, then walk to the lake.

Route 4 — Uetliberg: Zurich's City Mountain

Uetliberg (870 m) is the classic. It's reachable in 25 minutes by S-Bahn from the main station, and the summit offers a 360° view over the city, the lake, and on clear days, the Alps. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for most dogs.

Weekends are busy — go early or on a weekday for a more peaceful experience. From the summit you can extend the hike toward Felsenegg for a quieter stretch.

Getting there: S10 direct from Zurich HB to Uetliberg (25 min).

Dogs at the Lake

From late May onward, the shores of Lake Zurich are a great addition to a walk. Important: Official swimming beaches (Badis) are closed to dogs without exception. At quiet, non-designated shore areas, dogs can usually enter the water — but always check local signage.

Quick Checklist Before You Go

• ✅ Leash ready — mandatory in forests and forest edges, April 1 – July 31
• ✅ Water and a collapsible bowl for your dog
• ✅ Poop bags (plenty)
• ✅ ZVV day pass — dogs travel free with a person aged 6+
• ✅ Dog registered with municipality and in AMICUS
• ✅ Liability insurance active (min. CHF 1M coverage)
• ✅ Swiss topo map checked for your route

Have a great hike.

Our Selection of Dog Drinking Bottles for Hike and Travel

Staying hydrated on the trail matters as much for your dog as for you. Here are four bottles we recommend — all designed for easy one-hand use on the go.

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