National Hiking Day

On August 29, 2026, the holiday region of Gstaad will welcome hiking enthusiasts from all over Switzerland on National Hiking Day.

Three hiking routes with different elevation profiles will enable participants of all ages and fitness levels to enjoy a suitable hiking experience. Each route will be accompanied by a prominent hiking guide. Fans will have the opportunity to take a group selfie in front of the mountain backdrop as a souvenir. Those who prefer a sporty e-bike tour will also have the opportunity to enjoy the special view of the landscape from the saddle.

National Hiking Day is much more than a regional event: in recent years, several thousand people have taken part – from families and outdoor enthusiasts to experienced mountaineers. This makes the event a significant highlight of the hiking summer and its appeal extends far beyond the host region.

Programme:

08:00 am: Food and beverage stand open for coffee and croissants

09:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 am: Start times of the large hike
At 10:00 am, Nik Hartmann will accompany the hikers.

09:15 / 10:15 / 11:15 am: Start times of the medium hike
At 10:30 am, Mira Weingart will accompany the hikers.

09:30 / 10:30 / 11:30 am: Start times of the short hike
At 11:15 am, Pepe Lienhard will accompany the hikers.

10:15 am: Start of the Bike / E-Bike Tour accompanied by Joana Hählen and Mike von Grünigen

All three hikes as well as the Bike / E-Bike route start and finish at the festival site on the ice rink grounds.

From 11:00 am: Stands on the grounds open

From 1:30 pm: Klapperlapapp performances for children

From 2:30 pm: Kinderchörli Saanenland

3:00 pm: Metzler Family Band interactive family concert presented by Menuhin Festival Gstaad

From 4:00 pm: Handover of the hiking staff to the host location for 2027

From 4:30 pm: Pepe Lienhard and Band

Approx. 6:00 pm: Ländlerfründe Walopsee

Important Information:

Arrival by public transport: Regular train connections from all railway stations in Switzerland. Gstaad railway station is located directly next to the ice rink grounds.

Arrival by car: The number of parking spaces in Gstaad is limited and all parking spaces are subject to charges.
We therefore recommend travelling by public transport!

Equipment: Good footwear and appropriate clothing, the event will take place in all weather conditions.
An e-bike can be rented from one of the specialised mountain bike shops in the region.

The hiking day is free of charge and no registration is required.
We look forward to a wonderful event!

Further information: schweizerfamilie.ch/wandertag