Reachable by tram and train from Zurich centre, Mt. Uetliberg looks out over the southwest of the city. Being 868 metres above sea level, you can see much further than just Zurich though. This isn't a mere observation point either there are plenty of activities to get involved in, whatever the season.
Mt. Uetliberg is at its busiest during the winter. At this snowy time of the year, the summer hiking trails are converted into sledding runs. Catch the train service from Zurich Hauptbahnhof station to the stop at Uetliberg, before hurtling back down the mountainside. The Hohensteinweg trail is the preferred route for sledders, although quieter alternatives are available. Sleds are sometimes available to hire from tram terminuses. In the summer, bikes and hiking shoes are the equipment of choice.
Catch a tram from Albisguetli or Triemli, before embarking on scenic walking trails. Cyclists should take the 3.5 kilometre route that starts at the television tower, and heads down to the Triemli SZU station. In the summer, you can also check out the Planet Trail, a two-hour walk which leads you through models of planets in our solar system.
Of course, Mt. Uetliberg is best known for its views. The Uetliberg lookout tower (a 10-minute walk from Uetliberg station) is free of charge, and undoubtedly the best point from which to gaze out over Zurich. Pay-for telescopes are provided, though a camera zoom lens does almost as well. If you fancy sticking around, check in at the Uto Kulm (Top of Zurich) hotel. You can also tuck into some quality cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant.
Though you're more likely to be able to see further during the summer (maybe even as far as the Alps, which are approximately 200 kilometres away), November is also a great time for people to come for the views. That's because Mt. Uetliberg towers above the blanket of fog that forms this time of year. But Mt. Uetliberg is a perennial attraction, and will never disappoint.
