No. 12 25 Great National Parks 2026

Swiss National Park

Graubünden, Switzerland

Switzerland's only national park, a strictly protected alpine wilderness.

Overview

Founded in 1914, the Swiss National Park in the Engadine is one of the oldest in the Alps. Nature is left to itself, and visitors must stay on marked trails.

Chamois, ibex, red deer and marmots are often seen. The visitor centre is in Zernez.

Best time to visit

June to October, when trails are free of snow.

Highlights

  • 1

    Val Trupchun

    A valley known for watching red deer and ibex.

  • 2

    Macun lakes

    High alpine lakes reached on a long hike.

  • 3

    Ofenpass road

    The pass road that crosses the park.

  • 4

    Zernez visitor centre

    Exhibitions on the park's wildlife and history.

Getting there

Zernez is on the Rhaetian Railway, and PostBus routes stop at trailheads along the Ofenpass road.

Practical tips

Opening & tickets
Opening times, permits and any fees change, so check the official website before you go.
Time needed
Allow one to two days.

Official information: Swiss National Park (official website). Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.

Map