How to find the starting point for Gorges du Chauderon hike
Finding the starting point for Gorges du Chauderon hike is very simple. This stunning trail begins right in the heart of Montreux. You can reach the entrance by walking through the Old Town. It offers a quick escape into the wild Swiss nature.
Locating the starting point for Gorges du Chauderon hike
The official entrance sits at the edge of the Montreux Old Town. You must first find the Rue du Pont district. This area features beautiful historic buildings and stone streets. It is a lovely place to begin your Gorges du Chauderon hike today.
Look for the Bay de Montreux river flowing through the town. Follow the river upstream toward the mountains. You will soon see a large wooden sign. This sign marks the start of the protected nature zone. It is very hard to miss this entrance.
Yellow hiking signs are posted at every major corner. These signs are the standard for Swiss navigation. They will point you toward the "Gorges" or "Les Avants." Follow these arrows to stay on the right path. The walk from the city center is quite short.
The path begins near an old stone bridge. This bridge crosses the rushing water of the gorge. Many hikers stop here to take their first photos. The air feels cooler as you step into the woods. Your 2026 adventure starts right at this historic spot.
Reaching the trailhead from Montreux Train Station
Most visitors arrive at the Montreux main train station. Exit the station and turn toward the mountains. You do not need a taxi for this journey. The walk to the trail takes about fifteen minutes. It is one of the most popular scenic walks in Montreux 2026.
Walk along the Avenue des Alpes for a short distance. Turn right onto the Rue de la Gare. This street leads you directly into the Old Town. Keep your eyes open for the river valley. The trail entrance is located at the top of the hill.
You can also take a local bus to save energy. Board bus line 204 at the train station. Get off at the stop called Montreux, Plan-Dessous. This stop is only steps away from the gorge entrance. Buses run every ten to fifteen minutes daily.
Public transport in Switzerland is very reliable and clean. You can use the SBB mobile app for live times. The bus fare is only a few Swiss Francs. This is a great option if you have heavy gear. Most hikers prefer to walk through the town though.
Walking from the Montreux Lakeside Promenade
You can start your journey at the famous lakeside promenade. Walk toward the Freddie Mercury statue in the market square. This area is known as the Place du Marché. From here, you must head away from the water. Walk through the narrow alleys leading uphill.
The climb from the lake is somewhat steep. You will pass many local cafes and small shops. This route allows you to see the historic side of Montreux. It adds about twenty minutes to your total hiking time. The views of Lake Geneva are worth the effort.
Check the walking trail difficulty level before you begin this climb. The path from the lake is paved and very safe. However, the incline will get your heart beating fast. Make sure you have enough water for the entire trip. There are several fountains in the Old Town.
Once you reach the Rue du Pont, follow the river. The transition from city to forest happens very quickly. You will leave the noise of traffic behind you. The sound of the waterfall will guide your steps. It is a truly magical way to start a hike.
Essential navigation tips for your 2026 adventure
⭐ Recommendation: Don't miss out on amazing Montreux tours - book now!
The trail is very well-marked with official Swiss symbols. Look for white and red stripes painted on rocks. These marks mean you are on a mountain path. They are very common throughout the Gorges du Chauderon area. Always stay between these markers for your safety.
The path can be quite narrow in some sections. You should always give way to hikers coming downhill. This is a standard rule of trail etiquette here. Keep a steady pace as you enter the deep canyon. The walls of the gorge are very high and steep.
Many people enjoy walking from Montreux to Les Avants via this route. This longer trek requires more time and better fitness. Ensure you start early in the morning during 2026. The sun sets early inside the deep forest walls. Daylight is essential for a safe return journey.
Download an offline map before you enter the gorge. Cell phone signals can be weak near the water. A digital map will help you track your progress. You can also find paper maps at the tourism office. The office is located near the boat docks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I park for the Gorges du Chauderon hike?
The best place to park is the Parking de la Paix. It is a large underground garage in central Montreux. From there, it is a ten-minute walk to the trailhead. Street parking in the Old Town is very limited and often restricted.
Is there an entry fee for the Gorges du Chauderon?
No, there is no entry fee for this hike. The Gorges du Chauderon is a public nature reserve. You can access the trail for free at any time. It is open 24 hours a day throughout the year 2026.
What is the best time of day to start the hike?
Start your hike between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Morning light is beautiful for photography in the canyon. You will also avoid the larger afternoon crowds. The temperature is much cooler in the early morning hours.
Finding the starting point for Gorges du Chauderon hike is easy. Simply head to the Montreux Old Town and follow the river. This trail offers an incredible experience for every nature lover. Start your Swiss journey today and enjoy the fresh mountain air.