Important information about the difficulty level:The two sides of the lake differ considerably in difficulty. While part of the route follows an easy hiking trail (T1), the northern shore at the far end of the lake includes a more demanding T3 mountain hiking section (marked white-red-white). This section requires sure-footedness, suitable footwear and appropriate mountain hiking experience.
Hikers wishing to avoid the more demanding T3 section can follow the easier route along the lake and return the same way.
Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, Lake Daubensee is an ideal place to slow down and enjoy the tranquillity of the Alps. Thanks to favourable wind conditions, kitesurfers can occasionally be seen on the lake during the summer months.
From November onwards, the lake gradually disappears: due to its unique geological characteristics, the water drains away underground before the lake fills up again with melting snow in spring.
Author’s recommendation
There are dining options at the Berghotel Schwarenbach halfway through, about 2 km from Daubensee, or at the end of the walk at the Gemmi Lodge.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Rest stops
Panoramarestaurant GemmiBerggasthof Schwarenbach
Safety information
The mountains, a place of joy to share and respect. The mountain world is a place to meet and experience unforgettable moments together – whether by bike or on foot. So that all users can benefit, it is essential to share this space with respect for nature and agriculture. Respectful behavior enables everyone to enjoy their leisure activities under the best conditions. Inform yourself about recommendations and rules.
Assess your own skills and fitness well. Use of the various routes is always at your own risk.
Tips and suggestions
The tourist office in Leukerbad provides you with information material and brochures for hiking in the destination and can give detailed information about the route.
Berghotel Wildstrubel
Panoramarestaurant Gemmi
Erlebnisklettersteig Gemmiwand
Berggasthof Schwarenbach
Berghotel Schwarenbach
Daubensee
Daubensee
Public transport
Public-transport-friendly
Leuk is reachable by train (SBB), then take the bus (LLB – Leuk Leukerbad Bus Reisen) to the starting point in Leukerbad and the Gemmi railway up to Gemmipass.Get Timetable to destination
Directions
From Basel and Zurich: A1 motorway to Bern; A6 to Spiez; direction Kandersteg; car shuttle Kandersteg – Goppenstein; direction Gampel; Leuk – Leukerbad
From Geneva: A1 motorway to Lausanne; direction Sion/Sierre; Leuk – Leukerbad
From Milan: A8/A26 motorway direction Simplon; car shuttle Iselle-Brig; direction Leuk – Leukerbad
Parking
Various parking options in the village of Leukerbad. Follow the local parking guidance system.
Parkings in Leukerbad: Gemmi parking lot, Sportarena parking garage, Rathaus parking garage, Torrent parking garage, Leukerbad Therme parking garage, Alpentherme parking garage.
Coordinates
Author’s map recommendations
SwissTopo national maps: 1:25,000: 1267 Gemmi
Book recommendations for this region:
Equipment
Use of the hiking trails and information on this website is at your own risk. Local conditions may cause changes to the route. We accept no responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the information on this website.
For all hikes:
- Carry a map with you. Download the complete description of the hiking trail with a large-scale map by clicking "Print" in the top right corner of the page.
- Use only marked hiking trails and observe all signs and instructions—for your own safety, to protect grazing animals, and to avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Close gates after passing through them.
- Behave considerately towards other trail users, plants, and animals.
For mountain hikes:
- Bring additional sun protection. UV rays can be very strong at high altitudes, even in cloudy weather.
- Plan your hike carefully: consider the required fitness level of all participants, weather forecasts, and seasonal conditions.
- Weather conditions in the mountains can change very quickly and without warning. Appropriate clothing and enough provisions (food and drink) are very important. In unstable weather, better turn back early.
For high alpine hikes:
- Inform your family about your hiking route. Avoid hiking alone if possible.
- Do not set out on glaciers without a mountain guide.
- Observe warning signs indicating dangers along riverbanks, watercourses below dams and reservoirs: water levels can rise quickly and without warning.
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions