The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Oberer Murgsee
4.6
(2018)
13,967
hikers
164
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Oberer Murgsee are set within a mountain basin featuring three alpine lakes: Oberer, Mittlerer, and Unterer Murgsee. The landscape is characterized by rugged mountains, lush forested areas, and glaciated rock formations. The Murgbach river meanders through the valley, with a picturesque waterfall near the Lower Murgsee. This region offers diverse terrain, from shady forest paths to gravel trails, suitable for various hiking experiences.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Oberer Murgsee
- The most popular family…
Last updated: October 2, 2026
1
hikers
10.3km
05:01
760m
760m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
12.6km
06:24
920m
920m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.8
(98)
698
hikers
9.90km
03:28
550m
550m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(10)
57
hikers
14.5km
06:18
1,000m
1,000m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(8)
83
hikers
7.01km
02:33
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Oberer Murgsee
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Tips from the Community
Anyone stopping here had to do something for it. The path from Murg is partly extremely steep.
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Very beautiful forest with sparse pine/stone pine stands
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For me, this section of the valley has a southern Alpine character thanks to the Swiss stone pines.
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The Murgbach, also called the Murg, is a river about 13 kilometers long
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Waterfall from the Middle Murgsee to the Lower Murgsee The stream babbles along the edge of the forest and sings its eternal song. It brings me joy from the rock face, thank you, I love you so much. Text Kurt Küng 2001
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Middle Murgsee 1808 m Murg lakes (Upper Murgsee / Middle Murgsee / Lower Murgsee) Three mountain lake pearls in the Murg Valley (Upper Murgsee / Middle Murgsee / Lower Murgsee) in Eastern Switzerland SG / GL The three Murg lakes are nestled in a wild, romantic valley basin. The lower Murgsee is in the middle of a protected pine reserve, the scenery is reminiscent of the wilderness of Canada. Between the middle and upper Murgsee is the Murgsee mountain inn, which accommodates not only hikers but also fishermen. The Murgsee trout are known for their pink, salmon-like flesh. The shortest, best and easiest way to Murgsee leads via Murg on Lake Walen, on the Zurich - Chur route, either by car or the Murgtal bus (register for bus trips with Taxi Walensee, Tel. 079 735 30 00) to the Mornen car park (P2) at around 1200 m above sea level. The route via Murg is well signposted. From Mornen, a natural gravel path approx. 1.5 m wide leads directly to the Murgsee mountain restaurant at 1825 m above sea level. The hike takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The Murgsee - Mürtschen area circular hike is particularly recommended, with the starting point being the Merlen car park (P1) in the Murgtal. The hiking trails are well marked and are also suitable for hikers with little experience. Text / Source: Eastern Switzerland Tourism, Fürstenlandstrasse 53, CH-9000 St.Gallen https://ostschweiz.ch/de/map/detail/murgseen-d178b0e4-cf43-46c1-9f5e-29501dbf8262.html
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Berggasthaus Murgsee at 1818 m The restaurant at the upper Murgsee is open during the summer and autumn seasons. The house has always retained its simple and rustic character. It serves as a summer season mountain restaurant and is mainly a rest stop for hikers or sport fishermen who seek relaxation by the crystal-clear waters. Description Here you can eat very well and relax overnight in a cozy shared room for the next day (pre-reservation for overnight stay recommended). You can reach the inn in 2 to 6 hours walking time from Murg or Maschgenkamm (Flumserberg). https://www.myswitzerland.com/de-ch/unterkuenfte/berggasthaus-murgsee/ http://www.schweizer-bergseen.ch/st.gallen/quarten/murgseen/restaurant-murgsee.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Oberer Murgsee?
The Oberer Murgsee region offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 170 routes available. Among these, you'll find approximately 64 easy and 67 moderate trails that are often suitable for families, providing diverse options for all ages and fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Oberer Murgsee?
Family-friendly trails around Oberer Murgsee feature a mix of landscapes. You'll encounter lush forested areas, shady paths, and gravel tracks. The region is known for its rugged mountains and fascinating glaciated rock formations, offering constantly changing vistas and a true wilderness feel, especially around the protected pine reserve near the Unterer Murgsee.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many trails in the Oberer Murgsee area are designed as circular routes, perfect for family outings. For a moderate option, consider the Murgsee pleasure tour, which offers a delightful loop experience around the lakes.
What are some natural features or landmarks to look out for on the trails?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You'll discover three magnificent alpine lakes: the Oberer, Mittlerer, and Unterer Murgsee. The Murgbach river meanders through the valley, and a picturesque waterfall near the Lower Murgsee is a notable highlight. The majestic peaks of the Mürtschenstock also provide stunning reflections in the Oberer Murgsee.
Is there anywhere to eat or stay overnight on the family trails?
Absolutely! The Murgseehütte is a charming, privately run guesthouse situated directly on the shore of the Oberer Murgsee. It serves as both a mountain restaurant, perfect for a family meal or snack, and offers options for overnight stays, making it an ideal rest stop or base for further exploration.
Can we swim in the lakes during our hike?
Yes, on warm days, the Oberer Murgsee offers opportunities for swimming. Its clear waters, with the Mürtschenstock reflecting in them, provide a refreshing break during your family hike.
What is the best time of year for family hiking in Oberer Murgsee?
The best time for family hiking in Oberer Murgsee is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is typically more favorable, and the trails are clear of snow, allowing for comfortable exploration of the lakes and surrounding mountains.
Are there any shorter, easier walks suitable for younger children?
Yes, there are several easier options. For a moderate but shorter loop that explores the lower lake and stream, consider the Murgbach Stream – Lower Murgsee loop from Mornen. This trail is around 7 km and offers a pleasant experience for families with younger children.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Oberer Murgsee?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 1,600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning alpine lake scenery, the diverse terrain from forests to glaciated rocks, and the overall wilderness feel that makes for memorable family adventures.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the region boasts a picturesque waterfall. You can experience it on routes like the Murgbach Waterfall – Middle Murgsee loop from Mornen, which takes you past this beautiful natural feature as you explore the Murgbach river valley.
Are dogs allowed on the family hiking trails?
While specific regulations can vary by trail and protected area, generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the Oberer Murgsee region. It's always advisable to keep them on a leash, especially around wildlife and other hikers, and to carry waste bags to maintain the natural beauty of the area.
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