Autumn Views at Cardada Cimetta

You can find the latest updates on Lonely Planet Locarno.

For official information, visit Città di Locarno.

The larch trees turn a brilliant gold during the final weeks of the October month. You will find easy paths that loop around the summit and the cable car station. These trails are perfect for families and for casual walkers who enjoy the nature. The air is crisp and very clear during the colorful fall season in Switzerland.

Visit the viewing platform for a full 360-degree look at the high Swiss Alps. You can see both the lowest and highest points in Switzerland from this spot. The contrast between the blue lake and orange leaves is truly an amazing sight. It is one of the scenic walks in Locarno 2026 that travelers love to visit.

Golden Paths in Val Verzasca

Val Verzasca offers a magical and colorful setting for your next scenic Swiss autumn hike. The emerald green water looks beautiful against the bright red and orange forest leaves. Many people consider this valley to be the most scenic region in the entire country. It is a top choice for hikers who visit Switzerland during the late October period.

Walk the path from Sonogno to Lavertezzo to find the very best and colorful autumn views. This trail follows the river through ancient stone villages and very deep golden forests. You will pass many chestnut trees that drop their brown fruit in late autumn. The ground becomes a thick carpet of gold and brown leaves during this season.

The Sentierone trail is mostly flat and very easy for most hikers to follow. You should check the best time for walking in Locarno before you start your trip. You can use the local yellow bus to return to your original starting point.

Locarno Mountains: Best Autumn Foliage Walking Trails

The Centovalli or Hundred Valleys is famous for its deep gorges and very steep mountains. You can take the scenic blue train from Locarno to start your colorful mountain hike. The train ride itself offers incredible views of the changing and vibrant autumn forest canopy. It is a must-see destination for nature lovers visiting the Ticino region in 2026.

Get off at Intragna to explore the highest church bell tower in the Ticino region. Several trails lead from the village into the dense chestnut and beech wood forests. The trees create a colorful tunnel over the narrow and historic mountain walking paths. This is where you find the best autumn foliage walking trails in Locarno mountains.

The hike from Intragna to Rasa is a local favorite for the autumn season. Review the seasonal weather guide for Locarno to help you prepare for this mountain trip. You must cross a historic stone bridge over the rushing and clear Melezza River.

Maggia Valley Chestnut Forests

The Maggia Valley is the largest and most diverse valley near the city of Locarno. It features wide river beds and towering mountain peaks on both sides of the water. In autumn, the mixed forests turn into a beautiful palette of warm and golden colors.

Follow the Sentiero dei Sapori to experience the local culture and the beautiful nature. This trail connects several traditional villages that feature very old and historic stone houses. You will walk through ancient groves of giant and very old sweet chestnut trees. The golden light in the late afternoon makes the entire forest glow with color.

Most trails in this valley are easy to moderate in their level of difficulty. Knowing what to wear for Locarno walks will keep you very comfortable and warm. You should bring these essential items to enjoy your walk in the Maggia Valley:

• Sturdy hiking boots
• A warm windbreaker jacket
• A high-quality camera
• A reusable water bottle
• Local snacks and chestnuts

Visit the waterfall in Foroglio for a spectacular and very unique autumn photo opportunity. The water crashes down against a backdrop of bright orange and yellow forest leaves. There is no entry fee to explore any of the beautiful Maggia Valley trails. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the side of the crystal clear mountain river.