The hike from Klewenalp to Stockhütte is an easy and scenic mountain walk above Lake Lucerne. The route leads through alpine meadows, forests and quiet mountain paths, with beautiful views over the lake and surrounding peaks.
Summary hike details
Start location: Klewenalp mountain station
Destination: Stockhütte mountain station
Distance: Approximately 5.2 km
Duration: Around 1.5–2 hours
Ascent/descent: Approximately 150 m ascent and 430 m descent
Difficulty: Easy
Suitable for: Families and recreational hikers
Return options: Gondola from Stockhütte or a further walk down to Emmetten
Introduction
We chose the walk from Klewenalp to Stockhütte because it is an easy way to enjoy the scenery of central Switzerland without committing to a demanding mountain hike.
The route begins at Klewenalp, reached by cable car from Beckenried, and finishes at Stockhütte above Emmetten. Along the way, the trail passes through traditional alpine landscapes with open meadows, forests and occasional views across Lake Lucerne.
Starting at Klewenalp
After arriving at Klewenalp, follow the signs towards Stafel and Stockhütte. The path initially follows a small mountain road around the Klewenstock.
This first section is gentle and easy to follow. The landscape is open, with alpine pastures and views towards the surrounding mountains. In summer, the meadows are filled with flowers and grazing animals.
The trail then continues towards Ängi, passing through a mixture of woodland and open pasture before gradually descending towards Stockhütte.
The route via Stollen
If you would like a slightly more scenic alternative, you can follow the route via the Stollen viewpoint. This variation includes a gentle ascent to a viewpoint overlooking Lake Lucerne before continuing along the Gottfried-Stutz trail towards Twäregg and Stockhütte.
This version is a little more demanding, with approximately 4.3 km of walking and about 234 metres of ascent. It is a good option if you want to include a panorama viewpoint and do not mind a few additional uphill sections.
Twäregg and Stockhütte
Twäregg is a pleasant place to stop for a picnic. There is a barbecue area where you can take a break and enjoy the surrounding alpine scenery.
From Twäregg, the trail continues to Stockhütte. Once you arrive, you can relax at the mountain station, visit the playground and enjoy the panoramic views.
Families can also combine the hike with the Goldi-Gwundernasenweg, a themed discovery trail with activities for children.
Returning from Stockhütte
The easiest way to finish the excursion is to take the six-person gondola from Stockhütte down to Emmetten.
If you prefer to continue walking, you can hike from Stockhütte to Emmetten. This takes approximately another hour and adds a longer downhill section to the day.
Practical tips
- Check the operating times of both cable cars before starting.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, even though the route is easy.
- Bring water and a picnic for the barbecue area at Twäregg.
- Start early if you want a quieter experience.
- Take extra time for children at the playgrounds and activity stations.
- Use the gondola from Stockhütte if you want to avoid the additional descent to Emmetten.
- Check trail conditions after heavy rain, as some sections can become muddy.
- Consider the Stollen route if you want better views over Lake Lucerne.
Conclusion
The walk from Klewenalp to Stockhütte is a relaxed and family-friendly mountain excursion. It offers attractive alpine scenery, manageable walking and the flexibility to return by gondola or continue downhill to Emmetten.
The route is particularly enjoyable in summer, when the meadows are green and the mountain landscape is at its most colourful. With the lake views, picnic areas and family attractions at both mountain stations, it makes a rewarding half-day outing in central Switzerland.