Zurich

Over the Albis Pass

Travel from Thalwil over the Albis Pass to Hausen am Albis in 30 minutes by Postbus. Or break up the journey by exploring the Langenberg Wildlife Park or the Sihlwald Nature Discovery Park and admiring the sublime view from Albis over Lake Zurich. It’s well worth making some stops along the way.

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The Postbus travels over the Albis Pass in the direction of Hausen am Albis Post. Lake Zurich lies in the background.

Thalwil–Langnau-Gattikon–Hausen am Albis

At the Langenberg Wildlife ParkTarget not accessible (Postbus stop: Langnau a.A., Schwerzi, Wildpark), you can discover and watch wild animals that are or have been indigenous to Switzerland, such as lynxes, wolves and bison.

The Sihlwald Nature Discovery ParkTarget not accessible (stop: Langnau a.A., Albispasshöhe) is the largest unspoilt mixed deciduous forest in Central Switzerland and is renowned for its pristine nature.

The Visitor Center and Nature Museum − including a shop, restaurant and wilderness playground − is located in Sihlwald, a 90-minute hike from the Langnau a.A. Albispasshöhe stop.

On the forest adventure trail in Sihlwald, you will find a forest xylophone that tells you the age of the trees. You can even communicate with these wooden giants via a tree telephone. Pause on a footbridge over water to enjoy the magical idyll of the Langmoos forest moor.

Crossing the Albis Pass, you will finally reach Hausen am Albis, Post. From there, the Ämtlerweg hiking trail passes through the Affoltern district. Discover unique nature conservation areas, the former monastery in Kappel am AlbisTarget not accessible and Knonau CastleTarget not accessible.

Route 240Target not accessible: Thalwil–Langnau-Gattikon–Hausen a.A. (length of journey: 30 minutes)

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Albis Pass hike

The hike, which features stunning views, leads from the top of the Albis Pass to the Albis-Hochwacht observation tower and then via Bürglen to Sihlwald.

The Albis-Hochwacht observation towerTarget not accessible is just one of many sights on this hike.

The tower platform is visible above the treetops. After climbing the wooden spiral staircase, you will reach a perfect 360° panoramic view: Zurich, Lake Zurich, Tödi, Rigi, Lake Zug, Pilatus, Uetliberg and, finally, Zurich once again.

The hike starts at the top of the Albis Pass. After a short while, you will pass a sign for the Wildnispark Zurich, where the natural forest begins. Moss-covered branches give the appearance of waterfalls, while tree stumps protrude vertically from the ground. After half an hour, you will reach the observation tower. From there, it takes another 50 minutes to arrive at the Restaurant AlbishornTarget not accessible.

The trail continues gently downwards along a soft forest floor. You will see dead trees covered in ivy, damp undergrowth and a carpet of moss. After around 40 minutes, you will reach the Sihl.

Duration

3 hrs

Difficulty level

Easy

Length

7.7 km

Altitude difference

295 m

Starting point

PostBus route 240 to Langnau a. A., Albispasshöhe

Destination

Sihlwald, Bahnhof

Timetable and ticket purchases
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Additional information

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