📍 Location: Jöriseen
Are you looking for a hike that’s scenic, peaceful, and refreshingly off the beaten path? Let me introduce you to Jöriseen, a group of stunning Alpine lakes tucked away in Graubünden, Switzerland. At 2,489 meters above sea level, this hike offers incredible views, shimmering waters, and total serenity. Ready to plan your trip? Let’s go!
🚂 How to get to Jöriseen by Public Transport
Traveling from Zürich takes just under three hours with only two train changes. I started my trip early in the morning:
🚂 07:38 Zürich HB – 08:41 Landquart
🚂 08:47 Landquart – 09:52 Davos
🚌 10:00 Davos – 10:14 Wägerhus/Abzw. Jöriseen
Start early and check the last bus
Timing is everything when planning a hike to Jöriseen. For us, the entire loop took about six hours to complete with lunch and swim breaks. Aim to start early to give yourself plenty of daylight. The bus schedule is limited, so double-check your return times before you set off. Missing the last bus could mean a long, cold wait or an expensive taxi ride back to Davos.
👉 If you’re travelling to the trailhead by train or bus, my Switzerland transport guide explains the most useful ticket options for visitors.
🗺️ The Jöriseen Trail
Distance: 11.1 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: 842 m up, 842 m down
The circular hike around Jöriseen is 11.1 km long with an elevation gain and loss of 842 meters. It’s moderately challenging but perfect for anyone with basic hiking experience.
Pack enough food and water
There are no restaurants or refill stations along the way, so pack everything you’ll need for the day. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a hearty lunch. Sitting by one of the lakes, enjoying a picnic with those views, was one of the highlights of my trip.
Jöriseen stands out from other popular Swiss hiking destinations because of its tranquility. There are no huts, no cable cars, and no bustling crowds—just unspoiled nature. This remoteness makes it a truly peaceful retreat, but it also means you’ll need to come prepared. The lack of facilities might deter some people, but for me, it added to the charm.
This trail truly has it all. As you ascend, you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of the Alps, and once you reach the lakes, the turquoise water shimmering in the sunlight will leave you speechless. The lakes are so inviting that I couldn’t resist a quick swim. If you’re up for it, bring your swimsuit; the water is icy but refreshing!
🛠️ Essential Tips for Jöriseen Hikers
Whether you’re a seasoned solo hiker or just beginning, a few key preparations can make a world of difference for a safe and enjoyable day in the mountains.
1. Download Offline Navigation 🗺️
When hiking in remote areas, reliable internet access isn’t always guaranteed. That’s why I always plan ahead with offline maps. I download the GPX track from Outdooractive, which I then upload into my GPX Viewer app on my iPhone. This ensures that I have the entire route stored offline. So, I can stay on track even if I lose reception.
Another favorite of mine is Mapy.cz, where I downloaded the full map of Switzerland. What’s great about Mapy is that it shows all marked hiking trails offline. This makes it incredibly easy to re-plan my route mid-hike if needed. This has been a lifesaver on more than one occasion when I’ve needed to adjust my course due to weather or other factors.
2. Check the Weather Before You Go 🌦️
Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. I always use multiple sources to monitor it before and during my hike. My go-to sources in Switzerland are the MeteoSwiss website and SRF Meteo app. MeteoSwiss offers detailed forecasts for the entire region, while SRF Meteo gives me real-time updates right on my phone. Checking both ensures I’m prepared for any sudden changes in weather conditions.
3. Pack the Essentials 🎒
Besides my navigation tools, I make sure to carry enough water, snacks, and extra layers. This includes rain gear, as weather and temperatures can shift quickly in higher altitudes. Also, pack a power bank to keep your phone charged. Navigation, tracking apps, and taking photos can drain the battery faster than usual.
When preparing for the Jöriseen hike, packing the right essentials can make or break your experience. From ensuring you have the right gear to staying comfortable on the trail, thoughtful preparation is key. To make sure you’re fully prepared, I’ve put together a comprehensive one-day hiking packing checklist that I’ve refined over the years.
The Ultimate One-Day Packing Checklist
👉 To see my full list for a one-day hike
By taking these precautions, even hiking in groups feels safer and more enjoyable. I hope these tips will help you feel more confident. Enjoy exploring the beauty of Jöriseen or any other Alpine trail!
🎒 What to Pack
- 🧥 Extra layers and rain gear
- 💧 Plenty of water — there are no refill stations along the trail
- 🥪 Snacks and a packed lunch — there are no restaurants on the route
- 🔋 Power bank
- 📱 Offline GPX navigation
- 🩱 Swimsuit — optional if you want to swim in the lakes
❓ FAQ: Jöriseen Hike
How long does the Jöriseen hike take?
My 11.1 km Jöriseen loop took about 6 hours, including lunch and swimming breaks.
How difficult is the Jöriseen hike?
I’d rate it moderate. The route has around 842 m of ascent and descent, so basic hiking experience and reasonable fitness are useful.
How do you get to Jöriseen without a car?
Take the train to Davos and then the bus to Wägerhus/Abzw. Jöriseen, where the hike starts.
Can you swim in the Jöriseen lakes?
I did take a quick swim during my hike. The water is extremely cold, so bring a swimsuit only if an icy alpine dip sounds appealing.
Are there huts or restaurants at Jöriseen?
No. There are no huts, restaurants or refill stations on my route, so bring enough food and water for the entire hike.
When is the best time to hike Jöriseen?
Treat this as a high-alpine summer hike and check trail and weather conditions before setting out. The lakes sit at around 2,500 m, so conditions can be very different from Davos below.
