RoutesPlannerFeaturesUpdates
App
Login or Signup
Get the App
Login or Signup
Routes
Hikes
Switzerland
Ticino
Leventina

Lake Cadagno

Easy hikes and walks around Lake Cadagno

4.7

(684)

5,173

hikers

142

hikes

Hiking around Lake Cadagno offers access to a high-mountain alpine area situated between 1800 and 2200 meters above sea level, characterized by a diverse landscape. The region features over 20 mountain lakes, waterfalls, and vibrant alpine meadows, with geology influenced by dolomite and gypsum. Lake Cadagno itself is a unique meromictic lake at 1921 meters, known for its distinct water layers. Trails traverse larch forests and provide panoramic views from passes like Passo dell'Uomo.

Best easy hiking trails around Lake Cadagno

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Cassin di Quinto – Lurengo loop from Lurengo, a 3.0 miles (4.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the surrounding alpine landscape.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is View of Prato Leventina – View of the Waterfall loop from Prato (Leventina), an easy 1.9 miles (3.0 km) path. This trail provides scenic views, including a waterfall.
  • Local hikers also love the Lukmanier Pass summit – Lukmanier Pass loop from Hospezi S. Maria, a 2.7 miles (4.3 km) trail leading through an alpine pass, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
  • Hiking around Lake Cadagno is defined by high-mountain alpine terrain, numerous mountain lakes, and expansive larch forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, including many easy hiking trails.
  • The routes in Lake Cadagno are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 4000 hikers have used komoot to explore Lake Cadagno's varied terrain.

Last updated: October 4, 2026

5

hikers

#1.

Lurengo Church – Lurengo loop from Lurengo

4.97km

01:33

200m

210m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with deviceSend to Phone
Save
Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.
Sign up for free

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
Sign up for free to see 138 more hikes around Lake Cadagno.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Tips from the Community

Paul
August 4, 2026, Lukmanier Pass

A really beautiful pass! And also for hiking from the pass summit: many possibilities.

Translated by Google•

0

0

A well-maintained white church sits on the edge of the reservoir. You can sit on a bench sheltered from the wind and look out over the Lukmanier Pass.

Translated by Google•

0

0

Ying
June 1, 2025, Lukmanier Pass

Scenic pass that is opened all year round (closes at 6pm in winter). There is hardly any traffic which makes cycling very nice and plenty of opportunities to take pictures. We crossed the pass in early May when there was still plenty of snow up there. The change in scenery where it was all green at Disentis and slowly turning white as we climbed higher... and very quickly turned to green as we rolled down on the south side to Biasca was breathtaking.

1

1

The Lucomagno is one of the most famous Alpine passes in Switzerland. It is located between the cantons of Ticino and Grisons, at an altitude of 1,926 meters. The name seems to derive from the Latin "locus magnus", meaning "large, open place". It is often tackled in the professional race of the Tour of Switzerland.

Translated by Google•

3

0

Lukmanier Pass When the Disentis monastery was founded around 720, the Lukmanier Pass, which could be crossed without great difficulty and was also considerably lower than the other passes in the Alps, became very important. During the Staufer period, it was considered the most important north-south connection to Italy. However, it quickly lost this role to the Gotthard and Splügen passes. In 1374, the Disentis monastery built the "Hospezi S. Maria" with a chapel on the top of the pass. Both had to make way for the construction of the reservoir in 1964. The new hospice at the current location was inaugurated on August 1, 1965 and the chapel in 1967. The Lukmanier Pass played an important role in the choice of the route of an Alpine railway at times, because the planners assumed that it would be possible to build it without an expensive summit tunnel. In 1869, however, the decision was made in favor of the Gotthard railway. Between 1872 and 1877, a modern road was built over the Lukmanier. With the construction of the "Lai da Sontga Maria" reservoir in the 1960s, the road on the Graubünden side had to be relocated to a gallery. The importance of a supra-regional transport axis ended with the opening of the motorway tunnel through the Gotthard. Tourism in the Surselva began to suffer greatly as a result, especially as the pass was closed during the winter from 1980 onwards. On the initiative of the municipality of Disentis and the Surselva mountain railways in particular, the "Pro Lucmagn" association was founded, which has been responsible for ensuring that the Lukmanier pass remains open for as long as possible in winter since 2005. The canton, district, municipalities and tourism in both Graubünden and Ticino provide the finances. The five-year trial phase was positive. This project has been secured for the long term since 2011. Clearly to the benefit of tourism in the Surselva as well as in the Blenio Valley. Text / Source: Interest Group for Alpine Passes IAP, PO Box 11, 6491 Realp https://www.alpen-paesse.ch/de/alpenpaesse/lukmanierpass/

Translated by Google•

12

2

Chapel of the Assumption of Mary, Lukmanier Pass S. Maria» with a chapel. Both had to make way for the construction of the reservoir in 1964. The new hospice at the current location was inaugurated on August 1, 1965 and the chapel in 1967. Lukmanier Pass, 7185 Platta Text / Source: Interest Group for Alpine Passes IAP, PO Box 11, 6491 Realp https://www.alpen-paesse.ch/de/alpenpaesse/lukmanierpass/

Translated by Google•

11

0

Chapel of the Assumption of Mary, Lukmanier Pass Lukmanier - Catholic Chapel of the Assumption of Mary "The first buildings of the hospice date from 1374. The famous restorer of the Disentis monastery, Abbot Christian von Castelberg, saved the hospice from decay in 1577. He had the simple mountain chapel decorated with magnificent frescoes. The frescoes in the choir of the current chapel, which depict Saints Martin and Placidus, Sigisbert and Benedict, and the coats of arms above show the connection to the Disentis monastery. When the reservoir was built, the old chapel had to be moved. In addition to building the reservoir, the NOK was commissioned to build the chapel at the new hospice and to preserve the frescoes. Under the direction of chief architect Josef Rieser from Baden, the NOK was able to build a small sacred building on the Lukmanier Pass, which is a credit to the builders. On October 15th In 1967, Abbot Viktor Schönbächler consecrated the new chapel. Anyone who ever drives over the Lukmanier Pass will not be able to miss the magnificent chapel. It fits in very well with the angular surroundings of the mountains. A visit is worthwhile from an architectural point of view alone. The chapel should give as many people as possible moments of peace and inner reflection, so that they can return to the lowlands of everyday life spiritually strengthened, with new courage and trust in God." Text / Source: Website of the hospice on the Lukmanier Pass / kirchen-online.org https://kirchen-online.org/kirchen--kapellen-in-graubuenden-und-umgebung/lukmanier---maria-himmelfahrt.php

Translated by Google•

11

0

Behind the church of Sant' Antonio in Valle (municipality of Airolo) there is a small cobblestone square with a round granite fountain and two benches that invite you to take a short break.

Translated by Google•

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Lake Cadagno?

There are 17 easy hiking trails around Lake Cadagno. In total, the region offers 146 routes, catering to various difficulty levels.

What makes the hiking terrain around Lake Cadagno unique?

The terrain is characterized by a high-mountain alpine environment, situated between 1800 and 2200 meters above sea level. You'll find over 20 mountain lakes, vibrant alpine meadows, and extensive larch forests. The geology, influenced by dolomite and gypsum, contributes to its distinctive landscape. Lake Cadagno itself is a rare meromictic lake, known for its unique stratified water layers.

When is the best time of year to go on easy hikes around Lake Cadagno?

The best time for easy hikes is typically during the warmer months when the alpine meadows are in bloom and the trails are clear of snow. Autumn is particularly stunning when the larch forests change color, offering spectacular vistas.

Are there any waterfalls visible on easy hiking trails near Lake Cadagno?

Yes, some easy trails offer views of waterfalls. For instance, the View of Prato Leventina – View of the Waterfall loop from Prato (Leventina) is an easy 3.0 km path that includes scenic views of a waterfall.

What are some notable natural features to look out for on easy walks?

Beyond Lake Cadagno's unique meromictic properties and potential pink hues from bacteria, you can explore other significant lakes like Lago Ritom and the striking cobalt-colored Lago di Tom. Larch forests provide beautiful scenery, especially in autumn, and passes like Passo dell'Uomo offer panoramic views.

Can I find circular easy hiking routes around Lake Cadagno?

Yes, many easy routes around Lake Cadagno are circular. A popular option is the Cassin di Quinto – Lurengo loop from Lurengo, a 4.8 km trail that offers views of the alpine landscape. Another is the Lukmanier Pass summit – Lukmanier Pass loop from Hospezi S. Maria, which leads through an alpine pass.

Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in the Lake Cadagno area?

The easy trails around Lake Cadagno are generally suitable for families. The region's diverse landscape with mountain lakes and meadows provides engaging scenery for all ages. Consider routes that are shorter in distance and have minimal elevation gain, such as the View of Prato Leventina – View of the Waterfall loop from Prato (Leventina).

Where can I park when accessing easy hiking trails near Lake Cadagno?

Parking is available at various trailheads and access points in the region. For routes accessible via the Ritom Funicular, parking is typically available near the funicular's base station.

Is public transport available to reach the Lake Cadagno hiking area?

Yes, the Ritom Funicular provides convenient access to the high-mountain area, including trails around Lake Cadagno. It's one of the world's steepest mountain railways, offering a unique journey to the starting points of many hikes.

What do other hikers enjoy the most about easy hiking in Lake Cadagno?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 600 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning high-mountain alpine scenery, the numerous picturesque mountain lakes, and the well-maintained trails that cater to easy walks.

Are there places to eat or stay near the easy hiking trails?

Yes, the Capanna Cadagno (Cadagno Hut) is a modern mountain hut near Lake Cadagno that offers lodging and serves delicious Ticino specialties, including local Piora cheese. The Alpe Piora cheese dairy is also nearby, where you can taste and purchase the renowned cheese.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails around Lake Cadagno?

Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in the Swiss Alps, but it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife. Ensure you carry enough water for your dog and clean up after them.

What is the typical duration for an easy hike around Lake Cadagno?

Easy hikes around Lake Cadagno can vary in duration. For example, the Cassin di Quinto – Lurengo loop from Lurengo takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, while the View of Prato Leventina – View of the Waterfall loop from Prato (Leventina) can be completed in about 1 hour.

Most popular routes around Lake Cadagno

Road Cycling Routes around Lake Cadagno

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now
Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

Lake della SellaLake LucendroLake TremorgioLake Ritom

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Quinto

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free
Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesRedeem a voucherHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy