On the Uetliberg–Felsenegg Planet Trail, one metre along the route corresponds to one million kilometres in the solar system. At Uetliberg, discoveries made tangible in this way meet a natural landscape, sweeping views and activities that depend on the season or weather conditions. You can tailor your visit to different interests, such as the planet trail, the views, or natural and cultural history.
Landscape and views
Uetliberg forms the northern end of the Albis mountain range; its summit is part of the municipality of Stallikon. The mountain stands 870 metres above sea level, and Nagelfluh conglomerate is found there. The Uetliberg-Albis area is a valuable natural landscape with diverse habitats for plants and animals. Uetliberg and Albis are home to one of Europe’s largest concentrations of yew trees. On the southern slope of Uetliberg, the Fallätsche has been a nature reserve since 2009.
The observation tower on Uetliberg offers 360-degree views over the city, the lake and the Alps. It has 178 steps. This makes the views part of a tangible climb; at the same time, the panoramic vista is a highlight in its own right for anyone who wants to experience the mountain from above.
The planet trail and choosing activities
The planet trail starts at Uetliberg station with the Sun and ends at the Felsenegg cable car’s mountain station with Pluto—or vice versa. It is laid out to a scale of 1:1 billion: one metre along the route corresponds to one million kilometres in the solar system. This gives the route’s length an added meaning, as the trail explores the scale of the solar system. If you are interested in astronomical dimensions as well as the landscape, the trail offers a fitting focus for your visit.
The two bike trails can also be compared by their route details. The Triemli Trail is 3,500 metres long and has a 10 percent gradient. The Höckler Trail measures 3,100 metres and has a 13 percent gradient. This makes it 400 metres shorter, with a stated gradient three percentage points higher than that of the Triemli Trail. These details give you two concrete points of comparison to help you choose.
Paragliding is subject to a wind condition: it is possible at Uetliberg when there is a light to moderate Bise, or northeast wind. Check this condition before taking part. A snow-dependent option is the toboggan run from Uetliberg to Triemli. It is 3.1 kilometres long, with a vertical drop of 330 metres. Its seasonal operation depends on snow conditions, so check in advance whether conditions are suitable for sledging.
History and getting there
Archaeological finds point to almost continuous settlement since the Neolithic period. Later cultural history is also linked to the mountain: the poet Friedrich Gottlieb Klopstock climbed it in 1750, and the name Uto is associated with his ode “Der Zürchersee.” The Alt Uetliberg farm was first mentioned around 1620 and is considered evidence of the Uetliberg’s older farming culture.
You can reach Uetliberg directly from Zurich main station on S-Bahn line S10 in about 25 minutes. The journey time is approximate; check the current timetable before you leave. This lets you plan your journey and then choose between the views, the planet trail and activities suited to the conditions.
Discover more destinations: Aeugstertal, Aeugst Am Albis, Affoltern Am Albis, Kappel Am Albis, Hausen Am Albis, Bonstetten, Knonau, Ottenbach.
Go to the main travel overview: Affoltern.
