off road vehicle tours

Off-Road Gatlinburg

Making Family Memories

Build Unforgettable Memories with Family in the Smokies

Two Choices

Off-Road Tour

Embark on a thrilling offroad tour with the family through Smoky Mountains’ rugged terrains. Our guided adventures lead you to untouched peaks, offering panoramic views that will echo in your memories forever.

UTV Rentals

Rent a UTV for an unrivaled family adventure in the Smokies. Choose a 2, 4, or 6-seater for hours of fun, cruising Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, or scenic wonders like Cades Cove. It’s a full day of exploration and bonding

What Our Guests are Saying?

Off-Road Tours

Unleash the thrill of togetherness on our 1.5-hour off-road tour. Navigate through breathtaking landscapes on our private mountain, perfect for every age and skill level. Bond over the rush of hills and valleys, and capture memories amid nature’s wonders.

Secure a spot for all—from tots in car seats to tail-wagging pals. It’s not just a drive; it’s where family stories begin.

For adventure seekers aged 18 and over, the driver’s seat awaits. Come, let’s make memories that last a lifetime.

Choose from our fleet of 2, 4, and 6-seater UTVs, including top models like Razors (RZRs), CanAms, Honda Talons, Yamaha RMAXs, and Teryx4 800s.

Embark on your journey any day of the week with tours at 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM—plus 5 PM and 7 PM tours during peak season for endless adventure.

• 446 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN, Estados Unidos

Book your adventure in person at our Gatlinburg store: 446 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 or directly online here:

Street-Legal Rentals

Discover the Smokies in an unforgettable way with our family-friendly UTV rentals . Whether you’re weaving through the bustling streets of Gatlinburg or embarking on an adventure through the scenic trails of the Smokies , our two, four, or six-passenger UTVs are the perfect companions for your exploration.

From the rolling landscapes of the Smoky Mountain National Park to the breathtaking views at Clingman’s Dome and the natural wonders along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, your family is in for a treat . Get ready for laughter, bonding, and the joy of discovery on the open road and beyond.

• ‪(865) 263-2008‬

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Guided off-road atv tours in pigeon forge and gatlinburg.

Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, Gon Ridin' Off Road has the perfect experience for you. Book your ATV adventure tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

The Only Off Road ATV ADVENTURE in Pigeon Forge

This scenic area is perfect for off-roading, with miles of rugged terrain and stunning mountain vistas to discover. Experienced guides will lead you on a thrilling ride through forests, over hills and streams, and up to panoramic overlooks where you can take in the stunning scenery.

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Book your ATV adventure with us today, the memories will last a lifetime!

Gon Ridin' Off Road promises you and your family the most fun and exciting experience of your visit to East Tennessee. Book today to see what we mean. 

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Latest pigeon forge news.

There is always something happening in the Great Smoky Mountains. Click on any of the articles below to learn about news, events, and special offers.

The Ultimate Adventure for Any Outdoor Enthusiast

What is an atv.

ATV stands for all-terrain vehicle, and it is commonly known as a quad. These versatile vehicles can handle a much wider variety of terrain than most other vehicles. This makes them ideal for exploring the wilderness, scaling rocky terrain, and more. Our ATVs are designed for off-roading, allowing you to explore the wilderness at high speeds and reach places inaccessible to most vehicles.

A Thrilling Adventure Through the Great Smoky Mountains

Pigeon forge atv tours: the ultimate escapade for any occasion.

Whether it's a family reunion, a special birthday, or just a weekend getaway, Pigeon Forge ATV tours allow you to make any trip unforgettable. Our tours are more than an adventure. They are a chance to bring you closer to nature and your friends and family.

Plan a Once-in-a-Lifetime Bachelor or Bachelorette Trip

Take your friends on an adventure they will remember for years to come. Riding ATVs through the breathtaking landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains offers an amazing bonding experience. It's the perfect way to add adrenaline to your celebration and create great memories before walking down the aisle.

Enjoy Bonding Time With Your Adult Kids

As families grow and evolve, finding new ways to spend quality time together becomes more challenging. An ATV tour in Pigeon Forge is a fantastic way to bond with your adult children. It combines the beauty of nature with over an hour of fun while you make memories everyone will cherish. 

Upgrade Your Weekend Escape

Our ATV tours in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are the perfect way to break the monotony of routine life and inject some excitement into your days off. Whether you are local or just visiting the area, our tours can help you leave the week's stress behind as you head into the Tennessee wilderness. 

Add Some Thrills to Your Dollywood Trip

After enjoying the park's rides and attractions, take the excitement off the beaten path. An ATV tour offers a different kind of thrill, allowing you to explore rugged landscapes beyond the park. It's the perfect addition to your Dollywood trip, ensuring your vacation is filled with diverse experiences that cater to everyone's taste for adventure.

Experience Tennessee's Hidden Beauty Like Never Before

There are many ways to enjoy the wilderness of Eastern Tennessee, from camping to hiking and rafting. However, we believe the best way to experience this region is on our ATV rides.

Our ATVs allow you to go deeper into the unknown wilderness and reach places that would be inaccessible to most vehicles. It also allows you to see more of the trails faster than you would on foot.

We'll take you on a journey through the heart of Tennessee's hidden beauty, offering a unique opportunity to explore the unspoiled landscapes many never see.

Enjoy Panoramic Views

As you ascend the trails, prepare yourself for the breathtaking panoramic views that await. Tennessee's landscape is renowned for its beauty, but seeing it from our tours' vantage points is entirely different. From these heights, you'll witness the grandeur of rolling hills stretching into the distance, forests teeming with life, and the beauty of valleys bathed in sunlight or shrouded in mist. 

Witness Amazing Wildlife

Tennessee's diverse ecosystems are home to various wildlife, and our ATV tours offer a unique way to see these creatures in their natural habitat. From whitetail deer to the myriad native bird species that fill the skies with their songs, nature's spectacle unfolds before you. Witnessing these creatures is often one of the best parts of each tour. 

Uncover Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-trodden paths lie Tennessee's hidden gems, secluded spots that offer a glimpse into the region's untouched beauty. Our ATV tours are designed to uncover these secret places, from serene glades to exhilarating ridges that challenge your sense of adventure. These hidden gems are the heart of our tours. Each turn of the trail promises a new discovery.

What Makes Our Great Smoky Mountains Adventures Special?

The Great Smoky Mountains, which sit along the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, hold a special allure that transcends scenic beauty. This majestic range, part of the Appalachian Mountains, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, cultural history, and the mesmerizing smoky mist that gives it its name. Our ATV rides allow you to experience this mountain range in all its glory. See why this range holds a special place in American history. 

Exquisite Biodiversity

One of the most defining characteristics of the Smokies is their biological diversity. The range is home to over 17,000 documented species, and thousands more could be uncovered. Some of the animals you can expect to find include:

• Black bears
• Wild turkeys
• River otters 
• And so many more 

We often get to see many of these creatures on our tours in their native habitats. This is a rare opportunity that you won't want to miss.

A Distinct Smokey Haze

The Great Smoky Mountains are renowned for their picturesque, mist-covered peaks, which give the impression of smoke. This "smoke" is actually a natural fog that clings to the mountains, giving them their name and an ethereal beauty. This mist is a natural byproduct of the lush, biodiverse vegetation that blankets the mountains, which forms when water vapor mixes with natural compounds released by plant life. 

The area's high humidity levels and the difference in temperature between the air and the bodies of water in the region also lead to condensation, further enhancing the smoky effect. This smokey haze is not only beautiful but also helps maintain the moisture levels in this diverse ecosystem. On our guided ATV tours, you'll get to see this phenomenon in person.

One of the Oldest Mountain Ranges

The Appalachian Mountains are one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world and offer a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty. Our tours carve a path through this ancient landscape, revealing the rugged beauty that has stood the test of time. Each trail tells a story, allowing you to glimpse into our planet's geological history. 

Why Choose a Guided ATV Tour?

While some companies offer ATV rentals, where you go off on your own, there are many reasons to choose a guided tour instead of an ATV rental. When you choose an ATV rental from Gon Ridin' Off Road, our tour guides will be with you for the entire trip. That allows you to explore further and get help with your ATV if you get stuck, and it ensures that you will see all the sights our trail system has to offer.

What to Expect From Our Tours

At Gon Ridin' Off-Road, we are here to make every single tour a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From our expert local tour guides to epic trails, we'll ensure that every trip exceeds your expectations. See what you can expect from our tours.

Experienced Trail Guides

Our ATV tour guides have extensive knowledge of the trail system. We'll bring you through hidden trails, experience epic views, and witness the beauty of the area's remarkable biodiversity. 

An Exclusive Trail System

All our guided tours take place on our private trail system. This allows you to get an exclusive look at the forests of  Pigeon Forge without having to worry about riders from other parties, hikers, or others crowding the trails.

An Adventure Tailored to Your Preferences

There is no shortage of things to see in this picturesque region. Whether you want to take it easy and explore the wilderness or are up for a high-speed challenge, our tour guides will help you create an adventure that suits you.

We Ride Rain or Shine

Eastern Tennessee is known for its lush beauty and roaring rivers. However, all the greenery is a result of an intense wet season. During the summer, we get almost daily rainfall and will ride rain or shine unless there is thunder and lightning. 

A Well-Maintained Fleet of ATVs

Our fleet of ATVs is second to none. We've partnered with the top manufacturers in the industry to ensure that our fleets are durable, safe, and easy to operate. We maintain each one meticulously to ensure that it is operating at peak performance before each ride. 

Safety Is Our Top Priority

Our top priority is ensuring the safety of all our riders. Our vehicles have advanced safety features, and we provide helmets and eyewear for your protection. Our guides are highly trained and well-versed in ATV safety and first aid. 

What You Need to Know

Our guided ATV tours are open to adults of all skill levels. However, there are a few things that you should know before joining us for an adventure. Here are a few things to keep in mind. 

Must Be 16 or Older

All riders must be at least 16 years old and have a valid, state-issued photo ID. Parents or guardians must accompany minors.

All our off-road ATVs are for single riders only. If you are looking for family-friendly ATV rentals, check out ExoRent for street UTV rentals.

We'll Provide a Helmet

All riders must be outfitted with an appropriate helmet to reduce the risk of head injuries. If you do not have appropriate headwear, we will provide a certified helmet.

What to Wear

We recommend wearing pants to reduce the risk of injury on rough terrain. All riders must wear appropriate footwear, such as boots, sneakers, or tennis shoes. Open-toed shoes are not allowed. 

About Gon Ridin' Off Road

Gon Ridin' Off Road is your top choice for off-road ATV adventures. Our trail guides have years of experience. We offer guided tours seven days a week from 10 a.m. to Dusk., so you can experience this beautiful region at any time. 

Looking for a Family Friendly Adventure?

For safety reasons, we can only offer off-road ATV adventures to individuals who are 16 years or older. If you are looking for a UTV experience for younger kids, check out our sister company, ExoRent.

What Our Guests Are Saying

The Wilderness Is Calling Your Name

Your Smoky Mountain adventure starts here when you book guided off-road ATV tours in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Let us show you the hidden beauty of Tennessee’s backcountry today for an experience you’ll never forget.

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Adventure Mountain Off-Road Tours is NOW OPEN!

Located just 20 minutes north of Asheville at our NEW Adventure Mountain location in

Barnardsville, NC

• 369 Paint Fork Rd Barnardsville, NC 28709

Adventure Center of Asheville’s Adventure Mountain Off-Road Tours in Barnardsville, N.C ., is Asheville and Western North Carolina’s newest ultimate off-road driving experience.  Drive or Ride our Guided Tours in 4-person Off-Road Vehicles (ORV) on 220 acres of scenic mountain trails climbing up 1,400 feet on Adventure Mountain.  With an elevation of 4,200 feet at the peak, Adventure Mountain off-road trails travel through hardwood forests and extreme mountain terrain.   Start with a training area to develop your off-road skills, then follow our guide on technical trails, rock and log obstacles, hill climbs, and spectacular views.  

Our ORVs combine power and function to provide new or experienced drivers with a great adventure. Although they can go fast, our tours are not focused on speed but on learning and practicing the skills of managing challenges inherent in off-roading such as maneuvering around and over obstacles, climbing steep grades but also crawling down steep gradients, selecting the best course to traverse difficult spots successfully, and understanding capabilities of the ORV such as lateral stability, clearance, wheel locking and maneuvering capabilities.

Our training area will provide an opportunity to practice in an active, hands-on start. Once you’ve mastered your machine, it’s game on!! Our ORV course will include the best of our Adventure Mountain property: a 1,400-foot elevation change with the highest peak at 4,232 feet while enjoying panoramic views of the highest mountains in the Eastern United States (Blue Ridge Mountains, Balsam Mountains, Mount Mitchell, and the Great Smoky Mountains).  Our 220 wooded acres have 7+ miles of ridgeline, lush valley, cliffside, creekside, and crossing trails. 

Our experienced and knowledgeable guides will lead the way while communicating with our guests.  Z1R Road Max Helmets are provided for each participant and are required for safety and comfort. 

The 220 acre Adventure Mountain property has a vast history on this steep mountain of homesteading, farming, tree harvesting, and now protection and recovery. Although the off road tour is an adventure it is also an opportunity to see and learn the challenges and successes of farming and living off of the steep and rocky lands of the historic Appalachian Mountains of Western NC. You will visit the remains of the old homestead, learn how this farming community north of the “big city” of Asheville was settled and how the families struggled and survived in this steep and lush valley that is still home to generations of families and farmers. The most recent use of the mountain was timber harvesting. Our team of knowledgeable guides will share the importance of forest management and care following such stark impacts as clear cutting forests, invasive plant invasion and native plant elimination. They will share the efforts Adventure Mountain Resort is undertaking to not only protect and preserve this mountain but to remove invasive plants and weaker plant stands to replace with native and more vibrant and sustainable forest structures.

Adventure Center of Asheville’s Adventure Mountain Off-Road Tours is not at our in-town location!! It is a short scenic drive from downtown Asheville just outside of the small community of Barnardsville, NC, in the Paint Fork Road Valley. The drive is the perfect distance to be as close to Asheville as possible while allowing you to get out in the woods. 

*********Booking Information- we currently have 3 drive-your-own ORVs.  They each have a maximum of 4 people.  We also have the option for up to 3 people to RIDE with our ORV guide.  So there is a maximum of 15 participants per trip time.  You may book online.  There is no group discount. 

Planning Your Guided Tour:

• Reservations are required. You may book online. 
• Check-In will be at the Building adjacent to the parking area (not at the house.)
• Check-In Time is 30 minutes before your tour time.
• Tours Operate on Time.  No refunds for late arrivals.  Please plan plenty of time for travel and check-in.  
• We currently have 3 drive-your-own ORVs.  They each have a maximum of 4 people.  We also have the option for up to 3 people to RIDE with our ORV guide.  So there is a maximum of 15 participants per trip time. However, there is no group discount. 

Location and Contact:

369 Paint Fork Road, Barnardsville, NC

(see below for directions and map)

[email protected]

828.225.2921

• $400 Per 4-seat Off-Road Vehicle
• Includes up to 4 guests per vehicle
• Includes 2 standard drivers who must complete the skills training (age 21 or older, valid US driver’s license)
• The maximum weight limit of guests in 1 ORV may not exceed 1,000 lbs. 
• Age 21 or older, valid US driver’s license
• Must be age 8 and over
• Maximum 3 guests

See the Damage Insurance Policy below

See the Cancellation Policy below

• 7.5% tax & processing fee is added to each reservation
• Payment Is Due At Time of Reservation

All tours include

• mandatory top-quality padded helmets with vents and visors
• mandatory helmet liners are provided, or you can purchase your individual liner or bring a bandana or buff from home

Open Wednesdays to Sundays

(If you would like to book for a day that we are closed, please give us a call at 828.225.2921 and we will see if we can accommodate you. )

Tour Times:  9:30, 12:00, 2:30

(A 5:00 Tour Time might be an option.  Please call the office to ask for availability.)

Trip time is 1.5-2 hours which includes the practice area and trails. 

Explore adventure mountain.

Rules & Regulations

• Drivers are required to be 21 years of age or older and present a valid driver’s license.
• Riders are required to be 8 years of age and older.
• The total weight limit of all guests in one ORV cannot exceed 1,000 lbs. 
• Absolutely no alcohol or illegal substances on premises or consumption of any illegal substances before driving vehicles.  If there is suspicion, your tour will be canceled without a refund. 
• Tours Operate on Time.  There are NO refunds for late arrivals.  Please plan plenty of time for travel and check-in.  
• All riders are required to wear a seat belt, helmet, and helmet liner whenever the vehicle is moving.
• Waivers signed by legal guardians are required for riders and drivers.
• No refunds for inclement weather
• Dress for the weather on the mountain to play and get dirty! (Coats, Raincoats, Warm Layers, etc.)
• Closed Toe Shoes are required for all participants. 
• Water in reusable water bottles (no single-use plastic allowed)

There is limited outdoor (but private) space to change your clothes after your tour. 

• A bandana or buff to use as a helmet liner. 
• Valid driver’s license per ORV driver. 

**Important Note Regarding Weather**

Adventure mountain off-road tours will operate rain or shine..

Trail options may vary depending on the weather. Please dress for the weather and be prepared for the possibility that you will get dirty. Vehicles are open-air during the summer. A full enclosure can be provided during cooler seasons. Heat does come into the ORV from the engine and our AC is the breeze as you drive.

Cancellation Policy

We operate rain or shine except in severe weather that the management team deems hazardous. Advanced notice might not be possible. If we cancel the tour, Guests can choose between a full/partial refund, reschedule, or voucher.

Everyone can cancel up to 72 hours before the activity start time to get a full refund minus the 7.5% credit card and processing fee.

If you select for the Optional Trip Cancellation Guarantee, you can cancel

• up to 24 hours before the activity to get a refund minus the  7.5% credit card and processing fee.
• within 24 hours of the start of the activity get a voucher

Damage Insurance Policy

There are basic expectations of wear and tear on our orvs when being used on our trails. the wear and tear from making contact with the ground while driving on our designated trails and following your guide is the responsibility of adventure mountain off-road tours., $40 optional non-refundable damage insurance per vehicle.

For a Non-Refundable Fee of $40 per vehicle, all approved drivers are covered for any and all vehicle damage during the appropriate use of the vehicle unless they are willfully disregarding the rules, the Adventure Mountain Guides, or the designated trail routes.

Damage Insurance Contract

If declining the Damage Insurance Fee, a ny damage caused to the ORV by the purposeful or accidental impact is the responsibility of the driver regardless of who is driving the ORV at the time the damage occurs. 

Including: :

• with other Off-Road Vehicles (ORV) while on the tour, parked, or passing
• with objects from the established trails
• by rolling or flipping the ORV
• by driving over the directed speed
• by not following the rules provided both verbally and/or in writing

A credit card must be on file with Adventure Mountain Off-Road Tours and the owner of that card will be charged the fees required to repair any damage plus 10% for transportation and loss of use of the vehicle. A receipt for the repairs will be provided with the charges. The cardholder agrees to accept this responsibility and the fees as stated above. Every effort will be taken to minimize the cost of parts and services to return the ORV to its previous condition prior to the damage.

This agreement is a legally binding contract between Adventure Center of Asheville (dba. Adventure Mountain Off-Road Tours) and the cardholder and cannot be revoked by refusal to pay or by the dispute of charges to the card issuer. Charges can range from $500 to $25,000. Damage insurance is available prior to the tour start time for a fee or you can check with your credit card company/issuer or personal auto insurer to determine any existing coverage you may have.  We take numerous precautions to assure you get the adventure intended.  But variables out of our control such as weather conditions and varying degrees of driving experience can cause conditions to change. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Probably! Depending on the weather your clothes and shoes could get wet and muddy. The vehicles are open-air without heat or AC so be prepared for all elements. 

You may also get into a muddy ORV that has just been on a tour. 

Dress for the changing mountain weather and temperatures. We recommend you check the forecast for Barnardsville, N.C. for your tour day. It can be cool in the morning and late afternoon but warm mid-day. Layers are highly recommended unless it’s full summer or winter. The vehicles are open-air without heat or AC so be prepared for all elements. 

Comfortable Closed Toe Shoes are Required.  Shoes and Clothes may get dirty.

• We will provide snacks and water at certain breaks along the tour. You are welcome to bring your own water container but we ask that no “sticky” drinks be opened except when out of the vehicle as spills are likely and messy for you & the next Guests. Water with reusable water bottles is recommended.
• No single-use plastic is allowed on tours.
• Cell phones and/or cameras are welcome. There will be secure storage available but all items brought are “At Your Own Risk.” You will typically have opportunities to take pictures and videos inside and outside of your ORVs.
• Bring your own bandana or buff for your personal helmet liner. 
• Bring a valid driver’s license for all drivers. 

Hats- We will be wearing helmets so hats should be left in your vehicle. 

Firearms/knives/sharp objects- No firearms, please. No knives unless secured where they will not puncture soft goods. Damage coverage does not cover damage from personal items (knives, pens, etc.) cutting/tearing seats. Please remove all those items from your pockets. 

Valuables- Wallets, jewelry, and all valuables are best locked into your car, and keys are secured in our office. You can take them with you but if lost they are probably lost for good or our search will likely require a later time (based on our tour schedule) and a fee for the time vehicles and staff are occupied searching. Best to leave that all secure in your vehicle. 

Trash/Food- No plastic & excessive trash/food. Please allow time to eat meals before arriving or prior to your trip. There are a few shared picnic tables if you would like to eat prior to or following your tour. 

Single-use plastics

Our goal is to make it as fun, interesting, and exciting as possible while keeping safety as our top priority. Guests are allowed to drive. Training and practice areas are included at the start of the tour. The equipment we provide is top-of-the-line and exceeds any other tour we’ve experienced in the Southeast. This will improve your overall experience. Your guide is not just there to guide you but to teach and to help you make choices on the easiest and most challenging options when possible. Our tours are small and our property is pristine. You will experience obstacles, climbs, descents, and technical challenges.

There will be some “power areas” where you will accelerate but this tour is not meant to be a “fast” experience. This is an off-road experience with rugged terrain that may include steep climbs, uneven terrain, jolting bumps, trees, tree branches, water, mud, slippery areas, dust, and other objects that might become airborne or could hit or be hit by Guests or the ORV. You or another tour member might get stuck or have mechanical challenges that cause the group to focus on those issues which can alter any tour. There is always the limited possibility a vehicle can roll but speed and lack of training/supervision is the most common cause of rolling vehicles. This is part of off-roading and will be handled as quickly as possible but can change the tour experience. 

Adventure Mountain is located at 369 Paint Fork Road in Barnardsville, NC.  (Not at the Adventure Center of Asheville.) You may use the Google Map below for directions, however, there are 2 ways to get there from Asheville, a scenic mountain drive and an interstate route.

Scenic Valley with Mountain Pass Directions- approximately 1.5 miles of curvy mountain road

• Take Hwy 19/23, I-26/Future 26 North toward Weaverville UNCA for 5.7 miles
• Exit 21 New Stock Rd
• Turn right at the base of the ramp traffic light then immediately left onto Weaverville Rd/US 19/23 business for 0.6 miles 
• Turn right onto Reems Creek Rd. for 6.8 miles
• Turn left onto Maney Branch Rd for 3.3 miles. (Notice: Maney Branch goes over a short mountain pass that has about 1/2 mile up and 1 mile down of curvy roads.)
• Maney Branch becomes Paint Fork Rd at the top of the pass.
• Adventure Mountain is on your left about 0.4 miles past The Barn at Paint Fork

Interstate Route

• Take I-26, US 19/23 12 miles from Downtown Asheville
• Take Exit 15 towards Barnardsville on 197
• Turn right and go 5.9 miles on Barnardsville Hwy to Barnardsville
• Turn right on Paint Fork Rd. Follow signs to Barnardsville Elementary, Bad Axes, and Adventure Mountain Resort.
• From Barnardsville Hwy: Exactly 2.0 miles on Paint Fork Rd. to AMR-ORV Tours. 
• Adventure Mountain is on your right

You may, as long as you have 15 people or less on a trip time and we have availability.  We have 3 vehicles that can take a maximum of 4 people each.  Then we have the guide vehicle where 3 people can ride.  There is no group discount.  And you may book online using the booking link above. 

Not at this time.  Weaverville, NC has great B&B options.  And Asheville has many options.  Check out Explore Asheville to find out more.

369 Paint Fork Road Barnardsville, NC

Reservations : +1 (828) 225-2921

Email : [email protected]

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Fun adventures for the full family, Ages 4+

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Discover Southern California's hidden jewel, as you drive some of the top engineered, off-road vehicles through a challenging and unexpected course in the Mojave Desert

Live Intercom Helmets

Our connected helmets allow you to talk with everyone on the tour, even if they are in separate vehicles. Most importantly, the connected helmets, allow our tour guides to give direction and alert drivers of challenging terrain to help promote an accident-free experience.

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Vehicle Selection

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Looking for UTV Rental near me and ATV rentals near me , let Wild Desert Tours in California take you on your next adventure if you are in the LA or OC area. Choose one of our top-of -the- line Can-Am vehicles for your ATV rentals. We are only one and a half hour from Los Angeles and surrounding counties.   Stop the search

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Looking for date ideas or birthday celebrations ? AT Wild Desert Tours, safety is first, so before UTV riding or ATV riding , all riders will start with a safety orientation which will cover the basics of best riding practices so that even novices can feel comfortable getting behind the wheel of these machines. 

ATV riding / UTV riding in Los Angeles with us, will let you see the majestic Mojave Desert, where you will receive real time instruction from your tour guide through live intercom connection. Wild Desert Tours is located only one hour and a half from Los Angeles and Orange County California. From San Diego we are about 2 and a half hours.  If riding ATVs if your idea of excitement and you are searching for ATV riding near me  come check out what we have to offer!

Offering The Best UTV Tours and ATV Tours in Los Angeles California

Wild Desert Tours is the fastest growing ATV Tour company in Los Angeles . Our UTV tours and ATV tours are guided by experienced tour guides who lead you on a memorable tour of the Mojave Desert. 

What kind of UTV tour or ATV tour do we offer? Currently our ATV tours and UTV Tours in Los Angeles are offered as a 19 mile or 28 mile tour of one of California ‘s most expansive desert in the Mojave. Wild Desert Tours is an experience that you will want to check off your bucket list whether you’re a resident of California or looking for ATV tours in Los Angeles.  In fact we often get riders searching for ATV tours near me from: Anaheim, Glendale, Pasadena, Palm Springs, Santa Monica, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Malibu, Newport Beach, San Bernardino, Long Beach, Irvine, Riverside, and Orange County.  

If you want to stop searching for an ATV tour near me or UTV tour in Los Angeles , you came to the right spot!  We are only a one and a half to two hours from Los Angeles and Orange County. If this is your first UTV tour or ATV tour in Los Angeles, get ready for the experience of a lifetime. We are a growing ATV tour operator in Southern California, so if you found us by looking for ATV Tours near me and you are in California , see what we have to offer! Read some of the 900 plus reviews we have on Google, Yelp, Trip Advisor and more!

Wild Desert Tours - Helendale California

Wild Desert Tours in Helendale California is southern California ‘s leading ATV Tours and UTV Tours provider. If you’re looking for ATV rentals near me , look no further , we offer guided UTV rentals and ATV rentals across the majestic Mojave Desert. 

Many of our customers search for UTV rentals near me and are surprised to learn that we are only one hour and a half away from Los Angeles and surrounding counties. Our ATV tours and UTV tours are unparallel, from our comprehensive one hour safety orientation, to top of the line UTV / ATV riding equipment , Wild Desert Tours is unsurpassed in quality and customer service.  

Do you know that our tours are led by an experienced tour guide who provides real time instruction via intercom connection throughout the entire tour? Real time communication between our customers and tour guides ensures that customers are notified of upcoming turns and trouble spots out on the trail.  

We believe that live intercom connection contributes to a safe and memorable experience for our guests. We are positive that if you enjoy UTV riding and ATV riding in Los Angeles , we are the best in the market. So what are you waiting for? Go ATV riding and book your ATV tour now!

Description

Get ready to experience the Mojave Desert's incredibly diverse, off-road terrain.  Challenge your driving skills over dirt, sand, and rock, as you maneuver through twists, turns, inclines, dips, and off-camber terrain.

Participants will attend a 1-hour safety orientation and prep upon arrival to business. Once helmets and gloves are fitted, intercoms will be synced...and off you go! 

Beginners welcome!

All equipment provided

Parties of up to 16 people

Most in-demand, off-road vehicles in the market

Automatic Transmission & Power Steering

Fun, variable terrain

Requirements

Drivers: Age 21 + with valid driver license ( exceptions )

Children Passengers: Age 4-17 (Must be at least 42" tall)

Damage Deposit and Policies: ( click  her e )

Card used to purchase tour must be present on arrival

Whats included

Helmets with sun visors

Off-roading gloves

Bottled water

Go Pro Hero 11 (optional $30)

 OFF-ROAD TOURS

25 mins from gatlinburg and sevierville, looking for street legal rentals, your #1 choice for recreational vehicle rentals in the smokies.

Welcome to Off-Road the Smokies, where adventure awaits! Join us for a thrilling 1.5-hour guided UTV tour through our 350-acre private mountain. Buckle up and get ready to conquer hills, splash through creeks, and soak in breathtaking views of the mountain range. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or nature enthusiast, our off-road tours offer an unforgettable experience for all. Come explore the Smokies with us and make memories that will last a lifetime!

• Most guided tours are lame, this one isn’t.
• Take a 1.5 hr, guided off-road tour where you drive up hills, through creeks, and more.
• Witness epic views on a private mountain that overlooks the mountain range.
• Yes, you drive.
• The beginner – to the expert – will love this tour!
• The guys like the mud and hillclimbs, the ladies like the views and pictures they get to take.
• Kids, Pets, and Age Restrictions
• Kids and car seats are allowed, and so are pets 🙂 You have to be 18 years old to drive with a valid driver's license.

BOOK OFF-ROAD TOURS NOW

Kids, pet’s, and age restrictions:.

• Kids and car seats are allowed, and so are pets.
• You have to be 18 years old to drive with a valid driver's license.
• We have 2, 4, 5, and 6-seater UTVs available.
• As far as the types of UTVs, we have: Razors (RZRs), CanAms, Honda Talons, Yamaha RMAXs, V-Twin Teryx4 800s, and more.

• We offer tours at 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM (5 PM and 7 PM in the season).
• We are open 7 days a week.
• Most are $299 per vehicle/tour.
• We do have premium vehicles that are $399 per tour.
• We do not charge per person, but per vehicle.

For large groups, call for a group rate.

  865-339-3397 .

Destinations:

• We have a 350-acre private mountain where we have over 10 miles of action-packed trails.
• We have what we call a million-dollar view, which overlooks the entire mountain.
• Our off-road park is 25 minutes outside of Gatlinburg, in Sevierville, TN.
• You must be 21 years or older to drive (18 if supervised) and have a valid drivers license
• The off-road park is NOT at the on-road UTV rental location in Gatlinburg, TN 🙂
• If any participant acts out of line or doesn’t follow the tour guides instructions, they will be guided out and asked to leave immediately.
• UTVs are pet friendly
• UTVs are child friendly with the proper equipment (i.e. car boosters)
• No alcohol, drugs, or similar substances.
• If it rains, the tour-guide has the option to cancel and refund your rental -or- reschedule your tour to a different date of your choosing. Your safety is our #1 priority, then your fun 🙂

• We give our guest the address to our off-road park after booking online or at our main location.
• Our main location in Downtown Gatlinburg is located at 544 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (again, this is not the off-road park address).
• To be clear, we don’t hand out this address unless you book 🙂

How to Book:

• You can either book in our main office in Gatlinburg or online.
• Here is the direct link where you can book:   Off-Road Tour Booking Link.
• If you book online, you’ll be sent the renters agreement, insurance link, and the address.

[email protected]

Off-Road Pigeon Forge

Creating Family Adventures

OFF-ROAD TOURS

This brief section is for those of you who would like to scan, vs read, like most of us 🙂   To save you a call, 95% of what you want to know about the off-road tour is directly below:

OFF-ROAD UTV TOURS

The Basics:

• Most guided UTV Tours are lame, this one isn’t.
• Take a 1.5 hr, guided off-road UTV Tour where you drive up hills, through creeks, and more.
• Witness epic views on a private mountain that overlooks the mountain range.
• Yes, you drive.
• The beginner – to the expert – will love this tour!
• The guys like the mud and hillclimbs, the ladies like the views and pictures they get to take.
• Kids, Pets, and Age Restrictions
• Kids and car seats are allowed, so are pets 🙂 You have to 18 years old to drive with a valid drivers licenses.

UTV Types :

• We have 2, 4, 5, and 6-seater UTVs available.
• As far as the types of UTVs, we have: Razors (RZRs), CanAms, Honda Talons, Yamaha RMAXs, V-Twin Teryx4 800s, and more.
• We offer tours at 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM (5 PM and 7 PM in the season).
• We are open 7 days a week.
• Most are $299 per vehicle/tour.
• We do have premium vehicles that are $399 per tour.
• We do not charge per person, but per vehicle.
• For large groups, call for a group rate. 865-365-4500.

Destinations:

• We have a 350-acre private mountain where we have over 10 miles of action-packed trails.
• We have what we call a million-dollar view, which overlooks the entire mountain.
• Our off-road park is 25 minutes outside of Pigeon Forge, in Sevierville, TN.
• We give our guest the address to our off-road park after booking online or at our main location.
• Our main location in Pigeon Forge is located at 120 Plaza Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 (again, this is not the off-road park address).
• To be clear, we don’t hand out this address unless you book 🙂

How to Book:

• You can either book in our main office in Pigeon Forge, call us at 865-365-4500 or online.
• Here is the direct link where you can book:  Off-Road Tour Booking Link .
• If you book online, you’ll be sent the renters agreement, insurance link, and the address.

Hablamos Espanol

• https://offroadespanol.com/

BOOK ONLINE

Complete Rundown

For those of you who would like to take it all in, keep reading 🙂

Most guided UTV Tours are lame, but Off-Road Pigeon Forge’s is not!

Small children stay safe, while even the avid off-roader has a blast!

Experience the Smoky Mountains like never before on Off-Road Pigeon Forges’ 350 acre private mountain. Witness the Unseen.

2-seat, 3-seat, 4-seat and 6-seater UTVs are available. UTV Tours are a solid 1.5-hrs long!

Bring the family and friends along for the ride. Prices are affordable at only $299 per UTV ( we don’t charge per person ).

Tour times are as follows:

• 5:00 PM (spring-fall only)
• 7:00 PM (spring-fall only)

Note:  The off-road park is 25-30 minutes from the on-road location in Pigeon Forge, TN – so please keep that in mind.

Have an original experience and one you will be talking about for months. Even avid off-roaders won’t be disappointed with this experience.

Off-Road Pigeon Forge can accommodate groups up to 70 people and groups like bachelor and bachelorette parties, church events, and more. If you’re looking for things to do in and around Pigeon Forge, TN – taking an off-road tour will be the highlight of your trip. For group rates, please call 865-365-4500.

Book your off-road experience online today !

Click the red button to get started.

Las Vegas Elite Offroad

Off-road vehicle adventures, las vegas off-road guided adventure.

Join us for a thrilling off-road adventure! Ride through rock climbs, sand dunes, rock washes, sand washes, and anything else the Nevada desert has to offer.

• Hour Glass 2 Hours

ABOUT OUR ADVENTURE

Don’t get left in the dust. Come join the elite! Chase our knowledgeable, highly-trained guides through the Nevada desert on a two-hour guided off-road adventure. We use only the finest off-road vehicles, Can-Am Maverick X3s, to provide the highest quality experience for you and your group. Drive one of our vehicles with your group, or ride as a passenger with one of our guides, and tear through rock climbs, sand dunes, rock washes, sand washes, and anything else the Nevada desert has to offer! 

We’re located just 15 minutes from the Strip, and make it easy for you to get to and from our adventure. We’ll pick you up from your hotel in our complimentary shuttle and when you’re done, we’ll take you back.

WHAT MAKES US ELITE?

Complimentary Shuttle Service

Need a pick-up from your hotel? No problem! Our friendly shuttle drivers are here to pick you up and get your to your adventure and back to your hotel! We pick up from anywhere in the greater Las Vegas Area.

Top-of-the-Line Vehicles

Our vehicles offer elite performance with actual 4-wheel drive, amazingly powerful engines, automatic transmissions, long-travel suspension, and elite safety features such as roll cages, doors, window nets, and seat belts! In our vehicles, you get the best off-road experience with complete comfort. You can count on that!

Our machines do everything an ATV or simple dune buggy does, and much more. Twice the horsepower, 4-wheel drive, and long-travel suspension make our Can-Ams able to navigate through terrain and scenic landscapes unseen by any 2-wheel drive buggy. You drive the same top-of-the-line model as your guide.

Expert Guides

Our guides are highly trained and know the Nevada desert like the back of their hand. They’ll be sure you get the most out of your experience – safely.

Ride With A Guide

If you want to experience our thrilling adventure but don’t want to drive, our Off-Road Riding Adventure is for you! Ride as a passenger in our guide’s vehicle and let the pros show you a good time. Our guides guarantee a thrilling ride!

TOP-RATED OFF-ROAD VEHICLE ADVENTURE IN LAS VEGAS

"Had a great time, was definitely looking forward to this and it didn’t let me down. Trever was an awesome guide, gave clear instructions and went at a good pace. We went during COVID so masks are still a thing, if you’re into that, he was very respectful and kept his mask on at all times."

"The entire process was easy. From online booking..the company even calls you the morning of to let you know they are on their way to pick you up. Brandon and Steven were awesome guides. Steven was our shuttle driver and ..he also gave us some helpful tips of things to do in Vegas. Highly recommend this tour!!"

"Me and my wife came here for my birthday and it was amazing and fun! We had Travis who was great and funny! The trail is also great just be ready for an off road experience if you haven’t done this before! We will definitely be coming back and hope we get Travis again."

"Brandon and Chris were our tour guides for our off road tour! They took us out on some awesome trails in the Las Vegas desert! It was so much fun! Up and down huge hills, whipping around turns! We had the time of our lives! They were super awesome and made sure we were having fun the whole time!"

"Trevor and Brandon were the best guides. Most fun had while in Vegas on vacation. All the staff were awesome and helpful! We were able to stop halfway so be and the hubby could switch and both enjoy the drive. We will definitely be back if we ever come back out this way!!"

THE DESERT TORTOISE

You may see a tortoise on your adventure – when you get to our shop we inform you on how we all do our part to keep these threatened animals safe.

DON’T GET LEFT IN THE DUST - COME JOIN THE ELITE!

Yosemite Adventure Co

• (833) 533-7494

Make Memories

Memorable Adventures & Experiences

Enhance your Yosemite vacation with your unforgettable adventures and experiences. Make your Yosemite vacation more memorable by doing one of our many excursions. Regardless of age or activity level, we have excursions that cater to everyone!

Find the adventure that is right for you

Off-Road Tours

Off-Road Rentals

rated the #1 Activity in our area!

Ranked as the number one activity in our mountain area by Trip Advisor, Yelp, and Google, our experiences are not to be missed! Book now to find out why we have earned this title!

Activity Gallery

Dozens of activities to discover, see what exciting adventures we've got coming up.

Our top picks this Summer

Bass Lake Vista Jeep Tour

Half Day UTV Tour

• ages Driver: 18+ | Passenger 6+

Iron Lakes UTV Tour

• ages Driver 18+ | Passenger 1+

Half Day Jeep Tour

Yosemite Sunset Tour – Devils Peak

Giant Sequoia UTV Tour

Bass lake vista utv tour.

Giant Sequoia Yosemite 4×4 Jeep Tour

What our visitors say.

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• Guided Tours
• Pictures & Videos
• Buy Your Photos

Upcoming Tours

Our guided off-road tours are fun for both beginners as well more experienced riders.

Family friendly 4 seater vehicles, 1.5 hour guided off road tour, you drive your family in one of our can-am mavericks, over 1100 acres of trails to explore, climb steep hills and ridges, creek crossings, navigate wooded trails, various scenic overlooks.

• King Cougar Trail New

Hercules Byway Loop

• Scavenger Quest Great for Kids

Hercules Highway Trail

• Slash X Express Weekends Only

Johnson Valley Grand Trail

• Gift Certificates

Sunset & Stargazing Guided ATV Tour

Rattlesnake canyon trail guided atv tour, our vehicles.

• Testimonials
• Area Attractions
• Adventure Photos

Your desert off-road adventure starts here.

Book one of our expertly curated tours today, exclusively featuring premium polaris rzr utv side by sides, new for the 2024 season.

More than just a ride experience...

Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area in Southern California, home to the King of the Hammers, is a mecca for any off-road enthusiast or outdoor adventure-seeker and offers atv riding adventures for every skill level. Through a partnership with Polaris RZR and its off road vehicles, Happy Trails Rental's mission is to share the natural beauty of the Mojave Desert with you and provide a safe and memorable experience to always cherish.

The Playground

The OHV Park is an area consisting of nearly 100,000 acres of open trails – talk about a playground prime for the outdoor enthusiast.

Johnson Valley is just North of the San Bernardino Mountains in the Mojave high desert region with an average elevation more than 3,000 feet.

The Landscape

A varied landscape is punctuated by vast valleys, sand dunes, large dry lake beds, sandy washes and massive rocky buttes. Vegetation consists mostly of Joshua trees, creosote scrub, and wild flowers that bloom with a rainbow of color in the spring time.

The Location

We are conveniently located near many popular Southern California tourist destinations. About 3o minutes from Joshua Tree National Park and Big Bear Lake. About 1 hour from Palm Springs International and Ontario International airports and less than 2 hours from most Los Angeles and Orange County communities.

Choose Your Off Road Adventure

Self-Guided GPS Tours

Follow our pre-programmed GPS routes to become your own tour guide and discover the beauty and adventure of California’s Mojave Desert!

Private Guided Tours

Explore the natural beauty and hidden gems of California’s Mojave Desert with a private guided tour led by our local trail experts!

Our fleet of ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) includes new Polaris RZR XP 1000 Premium Side-by-Sides (UTV) with both 2- and 4-passenger models.

" S o m e t i m e s   y o u   h a v e   t o   g e t   l o s t   t o   f i n d   y o u r s e l f . "

Our curated off road tours.

Starting at $579

Scavenger Quest Trail

Starting at $629

Starting at $679

Slash X Express Trail

Starting at $779

Call for Reservations & Pricing

King Cougar Trail

Self-Guided ATV Tour · Starting at $479

Read Our Reviews

The experience at Happy Trails Rental and with Ben has been outstanding. I had several questions. Ben was extremely prompt in getting back to me and made...

My son found out my husband use to off road before we had kids and really wanted to experience a day in the desert with dad . We don't have equipment...

Ben and his staff are easy going and absolutely amazing. We were greeted by name the second we stepped out of my truck and made to feel at home. We Watched...

The entire experience was amazing from start to finish. Ben (owner) is a truly awesome guy. His attention to detail and safety made the entire experience...

Did the 80 mile loop. Facilities were clean, RZR in great shape. Ben and Tony were very helpful and friendly. They were happy we didn't flip the RZR upon...

We did the Hercules Byway Loop while on spring break with our family. Our girls (ages 11 and 16) absolutely loved it! The scenery was beautiful and the...

Latest News

March 5, 2024

Exploring the Mojave Desert’s Springtime Super Bloom with Happy Trails Rental

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, nature awakens in the Mojave Desert, painting the landscape with vibrant hues of yellow,…

December 15, 2023

Stargazing Paradise: The Mojave Desert and Meteor Showers

When it comes to watching a meteor shower, the Mojave Desert is one of the best places to be.

December 8, 2020

Dylan Efron and The McKibbin Brothers explore Rattlesnake Canyon Trail with Happy Trails Rental

Dylan Efron recently brought professional beach volleyball players Riley and Maddison McKibbin out to Happy Trails Rental for episode 2 of…

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there age requirements to drive or be a passenger?

Minimum age to rent and drive is 26 with a valid driver’s license. However, licensed drivers between 18 to 25 years old are allowed to drive only if they are accompanied by their parent in the same vehicle at the same time (no exceptions).

In order to be a passenger you must be able to sit in the seat, with your feet flat on the floor, back against the seat and your hands firmly on the hand hold.  While we do not enforce a strict height requirement, typically if an individual is about 54 inches tall, they will fit and be able to ride. Minors must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian. All participants are required to wear a helmet with goggles (helmet and goggles provided to borrower during your rental period) and wear closed-toe shoes at all times while in the vehicle. Happy Trails Rental reserves the right to refuse service to anyone, even those meeting the qualifications above, based on our sole discretion.

What is the difference between Self-Guided GPS Tour Rentals and Private Guided Tours?

Self-Guided GPS Tour options are ideal for customers who want to use the aid of our sophisticated GPS technology and follow pre-planned routes to exciting destinations. Self-Guided GPS Tours are perfect for the novice rider who wants to enjoy their riding experience at their own pace to allow time to stop and take in the beautiful scenery. Book directly on-line at our website by selecting the “Book Now” button.

Private Guided Tours are also available if you want to play follow-the-leader on your trail adventure and experience the Mojave desert in a unique way with an expert trail guide. We offer both day tours and special Sunset and Stargazing tours. Call us for pricing and reservations.

Are you allowed to camp in Johnson Valley?

Primitive camping is allowed anywhere within the boundaries of the Johnson Valley OHV Area, except on private property and established dirt roads. There are also a few vault bathrooms located on Anderson Dry Lake and on the north side of Cougar Buttes. Responsible camp fires are allowed, however do not burn wood with nails (pallets prohibited). The burning of potentially hazardous materials e.g. (but not limited to) gas, oil, plastic and magnesium is strictly prohibited. Please avoid building new fire rings. Federally protected desert tortoises are located in the OHV area so please be vigilant to stay away from these protected tortoises. Johnson Valley OHV is managed by Bureau of Land Management, Barstow Field Office, 2601 Barstow Road, Barstow, CA 92311, (760) 252-6000.

Call 435-260-2206 or Book Online!

MOAB ATV/UTV TOURS

Moab's premier adventure company, delivering moab's best outdoor experiences.

Get behind the wheel in our upgraded, true sport UTV on our You-Drive experiences or climb aboard one of our touring giants for our exclusive passenger tours  with expert drivers.

You-Drive Moab's best UTV fleet

• Most Popular!
• Morning and Sunset
• Info You Drive
• Hour Glass 3.5 Hours

HELL’S REVENGE AND FINS & THINGS

Moab’s premier slickrock trail climbs out of the Moab Valley for sweeping views from the LaSal Mountains into the Colorado River Canyon. This two trail combo features steep climbs and deep descents on fossilized sand dunes that are sure to thrill. Book online!

• Easy terrain for exploring Moab's treasures
• Great for kids!
• Hour Glass 4 Hours

THE WORKS • MOAB SAMPLER

From easy rock crawling to vistas for miles, “The Works” visits many incredible features that make Moab special. This adventure is for the explorer in all of us. We’ll explore a natural tunnel, touch dinosaur fossils, and stand at the base of enormous monuments that will take your breath away.

• Guide Favorite
• Extreme Terrain For Thrill Seekers

POISON SPIDER

Experience Poison Spider Trail for a thrilling off-road adventure! Follow our skilled guide as you confidently climb obstacles, zip through sand washes and traverse slick rock on the iconic Poison Spider Trail. Book online today!

In our vehicles and with our guides this fun trail is suitable for novice off-roader drivers.

Passenger tours in our spectacular touring giants.

• Thrilling Adventure
• Info Passenger Tour
• Hour Glass 2.5 Hours , 3 Hours

MOAB WANDERER AT HELL’S REVENGE

Embark on the extraordinary Hell’s Revenge tour in Moab, Utah, for an unforgettable experience. Moab Wanderer is Moab’s most fun hummer tour. Safety, comfort and capability are our top priorities.

• Epic Scenery

MOAB WANDERER AT HURRAH PASS

Experience the unforgettable Hurrah Pass tour in Moab, Utah. Traverse rugged canyons, enjoy panoramic red rock views, and capture stunning photos. Expert guides and unique landscapes make it perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and families. Don’t miss this mesmerizing adventure!

• Private Hell's Revenge Tour
• Hour Glass 3 Hours

K4 EXPERIENCE – HELL’S REVENGE

Hop on and ride along with us on this fun UTV tour in Moab! Experience the iconic slickrock sandstone that make up most of this ride’s terrain. Steep climbs on petrified dunes take you to 360° views that seem to go on forever. Book your Hell’s Revenge tour in Moab online today!

Give us a call. We’re eager to help you choose a ride that fits your adventurous spirit. 

435-260-2206

Why you should choose Epic 4X4 Adventures

Ranked #1 of 158 Outdoor Activities in Moab As the top-rated outdoor activity provider of nearly 160 options in Moab, we’ve earned our reputation through an unmatched combination of; first in class customer service, a top-of-the-line vehicle fleet, expertly trained guides, and thoughtfully curated rides. Don’t take our word for it, read our guest reviews .

Others may claim to be the best. Only Epic 4X4 Adventures has earned that top spot.

48 Hour Free Cancellation Policy Make your reservation with confidence. We know life happens and we understand things change. Book with confidence that Epic 4X4 Adventures offers Moab’s most generous cancellation policy in our activity category and we never require a non-refundable deposit. If you’d like even more flexibility, our optional Travel Protection closes that window to just 1 hour. See our FAQ for details .

We promise an Epic Adventure on every ride. Our entire team is dedicated to providing exceptional experiences and service to our guests. We are honored when you choose to spend your vacation time with us, and your satisfaction is our top priority.

Custom tours to match your spirit of adventure. Our diverse range of off-road tours is tailored to satisfy every adventurer’s craving. Whether you are up for an adrenaline filled ride or prefer to explore Moab’s treasures on a more relaxed trail, we’ve got something for you.

Moab’s finest vehicle fleet. From our custom touring giants to our customized side-by-side UTVs, our fleet stands unrivaled. Our commitment to your safety is only matched by our own meticulous attention to your comfort. Our entire fleet offers an enjoyable ride with plenty of space and leg room and well-engineered suspension systems mean we glide smoothly across varied terrains. Most importantly, our vehicles offer a seamless blend of comfort and capability, allowing you to embark on an exhilarating journey with complete confidence. We will redefine your expectations.

No one invests in your safety like we do. Our founder, a 40-year automotive design engineer, expertly selected the Kawasaki KRX UTV as our exclusive offering because it is undisputedly the right vehicle for Moab’s terrain. We didn’t stop there. With meticulous attention to every safety detail, we replace the standard lap and shoulder belt with 6-point safety harnesses. We replace the original tires with larger tires with improved traction. We add custom safety cages, bumpers, rock sliders and more. Our custom touring giants, Moab Mega Buggy and Moab Wanderer, were crafted with the same attention to detail, sparing no expense to keep you safe. And, though safety begins with our unrivaled fleet, in the hands of Moab’s best guides in constant radio communication with you throughout your ride, you will quickly gain confidence you chose well when you decided to ride with us. You will see the difference on the trail.

Our guides are the heart of every adventure. Uncover fascinating facts, enjoy entertaining stories, and receive invaluable local tips to elevate your Moab experience.

More to Moab Series

Embark on a journey of discovery and wonder with our exclusive More to Moab trail series. This is not just an add-on to your trip; it’s the very reason you’re here. Prepare to be captivated by the hidden gems and awe-inspiring sights that make Moab a truly unforgettable destination. Millions will visit Moab each year. Most won’t scratch the surface of what this amazing place is all about. Let us show you.

With even a quick look around for a UTV tour or adventure in Moab, you will learn that everyone will take you to Hell’s Revenge. We will too and it is a great trail. We think if you are going to ride Hell’s Revenge you should absolutely ride with us but if it’s more you seek, we’d like to show you there is More to Moab, much more.

When you join one of our More to Moab adventures, you’re signing up for an experience that transcends mere tourism. It’s an immersive event that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Our unparalleled vehicles are only the beginning – it’s the extraordinary places you’ll explore and the exhilarating activities you’ll engage in that will make this the highlight of your visit.

Ignite your spirit of adventure and forge lasting memories as you traverse our carefully curated More to Moab trails. Unearth ancient arrowheads, marvel at petrified rocks, and uncover dinosaur bones. Witness the mystique of petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, arches, and bridges. Explore secret canyons, hidden caves, and mysterious tunnels, all tailored to your chosen trail.

If your spirit of adventure is an adrenaline junkie , our More to Moab series has trails to push your boundaries, thrill your senses and pump adrenaline through your veins all in Moab’s safest vehicle fleet with Moab’s most well trained and most experienced guides.

Don’t miss the chance to embark on this extraordinary expedition. Book online or call us to find out more about our epic More to Moab trails. You-drive and ride-along options available. Your unforgettable adventure awaits.

Call us with any questions. We’re ready to help you select your More to Moab ride.

The difference is epic with epic 4x4 adventures.

BEST VEHICLES IN MOAB

We settle for nothing but the best! Our UTVs, Moab Mega Buggy and Moab Wanderer are rock-crawling beasts customized for your safety and comfort.

SPINE-TINGLING THRILLS IN STUNNING SCENERY

The Moab Mega Buggy, Moab Wanderer and our UTVs are built to take on the most challenging terrain and with our trail lineup, you’re sure to find a ride to match your spirit of adventure.

SAFETY IS OUR #1 PRIORITY

We go above and beyond to ensure your safety. All our vehicles are meticulously maintained and equipped with safety features others overlook.

TOP RATED TOUR COMPANY IN MOAB

It’s our customers that truly make us epic!  Read about their experience  on Tripadvisor and let them tell you how we deliver on the promise of an Epic 4X4 Adventure.

epic4x4adventures

Welcome To ATV Off-Road Adventure Tours

Ride all-terrain vehicles, atv off-road adventure tours.

Experience a Real Florida Vacation with our ATV Off-Road Adventure Tours. Guided ATV rides are a fun and exciting way to enjoy your Florida Vacation.

You may enjoy seeing white tail deer, turkey, raccoons, unusual fox squirrels, eagles, hawks, and many other birds of prey.

We offer rides ranging from 1 to 8 hours. We have access to over 180 miles of ATV trails all starting at newly built trailheads that provide restrooms and practice areas. This adventure will leave you with “Real Florida” memories that most visitors to our state rarely enjoy.

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The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary

Written By: The Planet D

Switzerland

Updated On: February 8, 2024

A road trip in Switzerland is one of the most amazing drives you will ever do in your lifetime. Weaving through the Swiss Alps, winding along the southern lakes, or cutting directly through countless mountain tunnels makes Switzerland one of the best places to go on a road trip in the world . The country itself is small in area, (it is smaller than New Hampshire and Vermont combined at 41,285 km² – 15940 sq. miles), but with so many mountains it takes a while to get from place to place allowing you the time to truly take in the beauty of this magnificent country.

Switzerland is a dream destination for many people, and this three-week itinerary allows for the perfect amount of time to see the exceptional landscape, enjoy unparalleled adventures, and explore its chic and sophisticated cities all while having enough time to relax and indulge in a Swiss spa and savour its splendid cuisine. This Switzerland road trip itinerary lets you see the best of the country in three weeks.

Switzerland Road Trip – Three Week Itinerary

3 week switzerland road trip break down by week.

• Week 1 – The Cities: Zurich and Basel
• Week 2 – The Mountains: Grindelwald, Leukerbad and Zermatt
• Week 3 – Ticino, Lugano, St. Moritz, Bad Ragz, Tamina Terme Spa

You may have noticed a portion of Switzerland missing on this map. We have previously been to Lucerne, Bern, Gruyère, Montreux, and Geneva on other trips, and while they were also amazing places to visit in Switzerland , it is too much to fit into this one road trip. One suggestion we have is to spend only two days each in Basel and Zurich to be able to add a day each in Bern and Lucerne. However, this Switzerland road trip itinerary lets you see a lot of the country while giving you time to relax and immerse in the atmosphere. For an alternative Itinerary in Switzerland, check out our The Ultimate One-Week Switzerland Itinerary

We have visited Switzerland four times in our lives but it wasn’t until our latest Switzerland trip that we truly had a clear plan and created the ultimate road trip itinerary showcasing mountains, cities, and the Mediterranean feel of southern Switzerland. If you follow this Swiss itinerary, you will experience the very best of Switzerland creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Train Travel in Switzerland

We have taken the train through Switzerland as well, and if you don’t want to drive, you can easily get to all of these destinations in Switzerland by train. Switzerland has an efficient and easy-to-navigate train system and if you purchase a Swiss Travel Pass, you can see all our road trip stops in Switzerland by train as well. Visit MySwitzerland.com for more travel planning for Switzerland.

Week 1 – Swiss Cities

The first week of our Switzerland road trip takes us to two of Switzerland’s most exciting cities. Exploring Cities is a great way to start a trip to Europe. You can ease into the adventures as you work off jet lag and enjoy all the comforts and amenities of the big city before going off the beaten path. We flew into Zurich and had three glorious days in Switzerland’s largest city.

Day 1 – Arrive Zurich

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and deserves 3 days to truly explore everything it has to offer because there are a lot of things to see and do. Upon arrival at Zurich International Airport, we followed the signs saying “Mietwagen” (Rental Car) where we picked up our car rental at Europcar. We also picked up a travelers WiFi at the service counter (you can rent one from there) located on the same level. ( Internet service is a must when driving in Switzerland to follow Google Maps, but a paper map is never a bad idea to have on hand ). Read our full Zurich itinerary here .

Where to Stay in Zurich – Hotel Florhof Zurich

Following our GPS to Old Town, we checked into the Hotel Florhof Zurich. They have parking on site which is perfect for anyone on a Switzerland road trip . We didn’t need our car much in Zurich though because we were within walking distance of everything and with the Zurich Card, we could easily scoot around the city and surrounding area with ease. (The car is great for morning sunrises around the city).

This hotel is located in a beautiful 18th-century patrician mansion (a noble residence). While the building may be historic, the rooms are updated and contemporary. We loved our stay here. See the Hotel Florhof website for details .

Afternoon: Walking tour of Old Town

After settling in, we immediately met our guide for a walking tour of the Old Town . We highly recommend doing a walking tour when arriving in any European city from North America. It keeps you from having a “ jet lag nap ” so you can sleep better at night. Plus an introductory walking tour lets you get your bearings for where your hotel is located in conjunction with the popular attractions. Visit Zurich.com for city tours and more information.

Top attractions in Zurich’s Old Town include – Rechberg Gardens (located directly beside Hotel Florhof), Grossmünster – the most iconic building in Zurich, Münsterbrücke, The Limmat River, views from Lindenhof and St. Peter’s church and more. Read more about Zurich at The Best Things to do in Zurich, Switzerland .

Evening in Zurich West

We didn’t relax after our walking tour, instead, we made our way to the hottest part of town, Zurich West. Zurich West is an urban area filled with bars, restaurants, cafes, and art installations. It’s easy to get to as it is approximately 6 stops from Old Town on the tram. The tram can be boarded by using your Zurich Card, just make sure to validate your ticket before boarding.

While in Zurich West, you must stop at Frau Gerolds Garten (Mrs. Gerold’s Garden). We loved this outdoor event space and realized it is one of the top things to do in the area for tourists and locals alike. We ordered a round of beers and went upstairs to overlook the outdoor patio and take in the relaxing atmosphere.

There are many things to keep you busy in Zurich West from hitting the waves at Urban Surf (located right next door to Frau Gerold’s Garten) to searching for art at Escher-Wyss-Platz, Maag Hall, or Puls 5 to check out the latest exhibits. Don’t miss seeing Anne Sophie in front of 25hours Hotel Zurich-West.

Dinner – Restaurant Markthalle

One thing you cannot miss when exploring Zurich West is the Zurich Viadukt Arches. The Viadukt Arches are an architectural highlight of the city, as shops and restaurants are built into the high arches dating back to 1894. We took a walk along the top of the 550-meter long viaduct overlooking the park. There are many places to grab some food or go shopping in one of the establishments located within the 36 viaduct arches. We ate outside at Restaurant Markthalle and it was wonderful to have a parkside view. Read more Amazing Zurich – Discover the Best of Switzerland’s Largest City .

Day 2 – Lake Zurich and Chocolate

Day 2 in Zurich took us to experience scenic views of this beautiful city and a chance to indulge in chocolate and great food. We made our way to Bürkliplatz Pier for a cruise on Lake Zurich first thing in the morning. This cruise is included in our Zurich Pass and we hopped off at the first stop, Wollishofen.

Morning in Zurich: Cruise and lakeside stroll

Wollishofen is an artists’ community that was a former industrial area. Today it hosts many events and event spaces and there are plenty of places to eat as well. A highlight of the area is the Cassiopeia Boardwalk which is a beautiful pedestrian walkway that spans out along the water Lake Zurich. We continued to walk along the lakeshore enjoying the sunshine until we made our way to Mönchhof Am See for lunch in their beer garden. We enjoyed fresh fish from Lake Zurich overlooking the harbour.

Afternoon: Lindt Home of Chocolate

One of the top things to do in Zurich is to Visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate . A tour of this facility is a must because you can indulge in chocolate tasting. And indulge we did!

The state-of-the-art building houses a testing plant where chocolatiers develop new recipes and techniques letting you peek into the art of chocolate making. There are several experiences to choose from, but simply going on the chocolate tour is awesome. We made our way through the history of chocolate in Switzerland, walking through interactive exhibits until we emerged at an incredible room of chocolate fountains. We grabbed ourselves a spoon and took advantage of this opportunity to taste delicious Lindt chocolate. It was then on to chunks of chocolate to test our taste buds and then finally we ended in a room with vats of Lindor chocolates ready for you to eat!

Evening: Bahnhofstrasse and Paradeplatz

When we were done with chocolate, we made our way back downtown on the tram to Bahnhofstrasse for some window shopping and dinner. This area of Zurich is filled with boutique shopping and high-end name brands. We then walked to Paradeplatz for dinner and drinks soaking up the evening atmosphere of Zurich. We ate dinner at Restaurant Zeughauskeller and it had excellent service and was a good place to sample Swiss food!

Day 3 – Mountains and Water

Our final day in Zurich was warm and beautiful and let us experience the great outdoors. We started the day with a stunning sunrise at Lindenhof overlooking the Limmat River and the Old Town. After a hearty breakfast included with our stay at Hotel Florhof, we packed our bathing suits and hiking gear to get ready for a day on the water and in the mountains.

Morning – SUP at Seebad Enge Swimming Area

The morning began at Seebad Enge. This is a public swimming area on Lake Zurich with sun decks, swimming lanes, a restaurant, and a sauna. It is very popular with the locals. We rented a couple of paddleboards and set out to explore Lake Zurich. Weaving through the boats, we made our way to the Schanzengraben Canal. This is a beautiful way to explore the architecture of Zurich from the water. Check for prices and opening hours here.

Lunch: Swiss Fondue

Before our afternoon excursion, we walked into Old Town to grab lunch at Swiss Chuchi . We couldn’t visit Switzerland without having fondue, and Swiss Chuchi had the best Swiss Fondue we’ve ever tasted. We also had the best service in all of Zurich here. The staff was so friendly and accommodating. We didn’t even ask for this photograph (above), they simply offered with a huge smile! After indulging in a lot of bread and cheese, a hike was in order to burn off some of those calories.

Afternoon: Uetliberg

Hopping on the tram we made our way to Uetliberg, Zurich’s very own mountain. This mountain stands 869 meters (2850 feet) above sea level overlooking Zurich, Lake Zurich, and the Swiss Alps. Taking the train up is part of the fun. It took us very near to the top where we had a short 10-minute hike to a tower where we had postcard-perfect views of mountains, Lake Zurich, and the Limmat Valley. It costs 2CHF to go up the tower and you can pay at the machine by credit card.

Evening: Sunset

After making our way back to the city, it was time to enjoy the sunset by the lake to take in the beautiful views of the church steeples of Old Town and the beauty of the Swiss Alps in the distance. Our top pick for sunset in Zurich is in front of Sechseläutenplatz on the water for a romantic evening. But for photographs, we recommend the bridge looking at Fraumünster or looking back from Quaibrücke, the last bridge between Zurich Old Town and Lake Zurich is fantastic too! ( you can see that picture at the start of this post directly under the heading Week 1 – Swiss Cities )

• The Perfect 3 Days in Zurich, Switzerland
• The Best Things to do in Zurich, Switzerland

Day 4 – Transfer to Basel

It’s time to say goodbye to Zurich and hello to our favorite city in Switzerland, Basel! This beautiful historic city is another must-stop on any Switzerland itinerary and three days is just enough time to see it all. Located just a little over an hour from Zurich, there was no need to rush to make it to Basel by noon. Check out 20 Reasons to Fall in Love with Basel, Switzerland

Morning: Transfer to Basel and Check in at ART HOUSE Basel Hotel

We checked into ART HOUSE Hotel Basel after parking our car in the nearby garage. ART HOUSE Basel is a design hotel located on the busy pedestrian street, Steinenvorstadt, and is a fantastic place to make a base when staying in Basel. The contemporary rooms are spacious and elegant. See their website for availability and pricing.

After grabbing a quick lunch at nearby Restaurant Kunsthalle , we did what we normally do when arriving at any new city, take a walking tour.

Afternoon: Old Town Walking Tour

A walking tour of the Old Town is a great way to get acquainted with the city. The Old Town is within walking distance from the ART HOUSE Basel Hotel making it very easy to explore. We spent three hours checking out all the top sights of Grossbasel (the Left Side of the River Bank). Visit This is Basel for city tours of Basel.

Things to see in Old Town Basel

There are many things to see in Old Town Basel and an afternoon isn’t quite enough, but a few of the top sights in the Old Town include, City Hall (Rathaus) by the Market Square (Marktplatz), the Hoosesagg Museum (Pocket Museum), Tinguely Fountain, and the hanging gardens of the Museum der Kulturen Basel (Museum of Cultures). For more things to do in Basel check out 24 Fantastic Things to do in Basel, Switzerland

Evening: Weidling Boat Tour

After our tour, we grabbed a quick lunch and then took a walk along the Rhine River to the shore below the Museum Tinguely where we met our guides for one of the most excursions in Basel, a tour on a traditional Weidling boat. You can choose from a canopé tour where you sit back and relax while enjoying an evening cocktail, or you can try your hand at spiking and help paddle upriver. Naturally, we tried paddling to experience this ancient way of traveling up river against the current. It was a fantastic workout and a lot of fun. Visit the  Waidlig Basilea website  for more details.

Dinner: I f you decided to paddle, you will have definitely built up an appetite and a place we highly recommend is Ufer 7 for dinner. It’s located on the Rhine and has a fantastic atmosphere with even better food.

Day 5 – E-bike Exploration

Day two in Basel is perfect to explore by e-bike. We love touring on an e-bike because you can cover a lot of ground. Now that we had explored a lot of Old Town, it was time to see the sights around town. We started our biking tour at the Basel Exhibition Center to view the incredible giant oculus ceiling. We then hopped on our bikes and rode out of town so we could stand at three country corners – The Dreiländereck is where Germany, France, and Switzerland meet.

After enjoying a cycle along the waterfront, we then turned towards Foundation Beyeler to see some magnificent contemporary art. It is a beautiful setting containing the private collection of Hildy and Ernst Beyeler including Monet, Cézanne, van Gogh and Picasso. This was also a great place to have lunch in the garden next door before continuing on to our next stop. Rent your e-bike from  Rent a Bike in Central Station.

Afternoon: Cross into Germany

The afternoon took us across the border by e-bike to explore another museum Vitra Design Museum in Germany. This expansive museum is filled with contemporary buildings and art installations. The cycling trail to the Vitra Design Museum from Foundation Beyeler is a trail containing 24 trail markers with installations by Tobias Rehberger.

Evening: Sunset at Dinner at Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois

After returning our bikes we walked down to the Rhine to watch the sunset from Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois (Three Kings). You can either enjoy just a cocktail on the terrace overlooking the Rhine or you can enjoy dinner here as well. We settled for cocktails. If you want a taste of old-world luxury and charm you can also stay here! Make reservations here or book accommodation on their website here.

Day 6 – Museums and History

For our final day in Basel, it’s time to immerse in a bit of history and culture. Starting the day at the Kunstmuseum Basel we perused the permanent and rotating collections. This museum is one of the most popular museums in Basel and simply walking around the buildings is a work of art unto itself. The architecture and design are gorgeous. After a morning of art, it’s time to walk down to the Rhine for a nice lunch at Le Rhin Bleu. This outdoor patio on the Rhine has fantastic views, great food and a relaxing atmosphere. In the winter it turns into a sauna! See Le Rhin Bleu for reservations.

Afternoon: On the River

After lunch, it’s time to cross the Rhine on the traditional ferry. The reaction ferry is located at four places along the Rhine. This ferry uses the momentum of the current, a cable, and a rudder to cross the river without a motor. It is a must when visiting Basel. Once you’ve crossed the river, it’s time to join the locals and hop in the Rhine for a refreshing afternoon swim. A popular place to jump in is below Museum Tinguely at Klein Basel (Right Side of the River Bank). 

• 24 Fantastic Things to do in Basel, Switzerland
• 20 Reasons to Fall in Love with Basel, Switzerland

Week 2 – Mountains and Nature

Day 7 – basel to grindelwald.

Morning Street Art Walk

In the morning before heading out of Basel we suggest taking one last tour, a Walking Tour with Artstüebli Basel. We spent 90 minutes perusing the contemporary street art found throughout the city. You probably missed most of it during your three days in Basel, (I know we did) so let an expert guide show you some hidden gems. It’s wonderful goodbye to Basel. Visit their website to book a tour.

Early Afternoon Arrive in Grindelwald

It is a two-hour drive from Basel to Grindelwald, so there was no need to rush since we couldn’t check in too early at the hotel. Because the scenery is so extraordinary here, you may want to get a head start and leave bright and early. We arrived around lunchtime and it gave us more than enough time to really enjoy the best of Grindelwald over the next three days. Read more: The Complete Guide to Grindelwald-First in Switzerland

Where to Stay in Grindelwald

After checking into our hotel, the Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof we wasted no time getting out to see the best of Grindelwald. Visit the hotel website for rates and availability. The hotel has indoor parking for a fee. Having a car we could drive right up to our next stop on our Switzerland itinerary, Glacier Canyon Grindelwald. But buses also go to the Gorge.

The Best way to get around Grindelwald is using the passes offered through Jungfrau Railways, visit their website for packages.

Afternoon: Glacier Canyon Grindelwald

The Glacier Canyon Grindelwald is spectacular. The photos don’t do justice to this incredible gorge of rushing water with a stone pathway snaking alongside. One cool thing they added in recent years is a trampoline out over the rapids which is a heart-pounding thrill. The 170-meter Spiderweb is an awesome place to look down the gorge and feel the power and roar from the River Lütschine. Visit their website for more details.

After a couple of hours at Glacier Canyon Grindelwald, it was time to head back to Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof for dinner on the outdoor terrace. This beautiful setting makes for the perfect end to the day. We then settled in and relaxed in their glorious spa and saunas. I’m glad we did because we needed our energy for the next day.

Day 8 – Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

It was one of the most memorable days on our Switzerland road trip itinerary at Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe. Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof is located steps from the Grindelwald train station where we boarded the train to Grindelwald Terminal. This is where the adventure begins. Once we arrived at the Terminal, we hopped aboard the Eiger Express which is the most modern tri-cable gondola in the world taking us up to Eiger Glacier station.

Morning: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

It is at this station that everyone transfers to Jungfraubahn (The Jungfrau Railway) to hop aboard the historic cogwheel train that takes us up to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe. At the top, there are the most incredible views of the Glaciers and snow-capped peaks from the Glacier Plateau and Sphinx Terrace.

There is also a marvelous ice palace and sculptures located in a 1000 meter maze of tunnels under the glacier. It’s truly awe-inspiring. Here, there is an interactive display showcasing the history of Jungfraujoch and what it took to create the cogwheel train up to the top of the mountains. Read more Spectacular Switzerland, a Visit to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe .

You can purchase tickets from Grindelwald or Interlaken to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe in advance at  Jungfrau Railways.  We highly recommend a  Top of Europe Pass  to allow flexibility for the weather. Passes start at 3 days for 239 CHF ($260 USD)

Afternoon – Eiger Trail

After a solid few hours at Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, it’s time to head back down the cogwheel train to the Eiger Glacier station where we began the legendary scenic hike down the Eiger Trail. This is a beautiful trail that offers spectacular views of Eiger North Wall and surrounding mountains and valleys. Plus it is here that saw the pretty Swiss cows that roam the mountains. Just listen for the sounds of their cowbells to find them.

It’s an exhausting day, so we made our way back to the hotel (we had the half board package that included dinner each evening) to relax and soak in the hotel spa. Luckily they have a foot bath in the spa to soothe our aching feet.

Day 9 – Grindelwald First

After a good night’s sleep, we enjoyed the incredible and huge buffet breakfast at the hotel. We then checked out of Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof for one night. We packed an overnight bag for trekking and sleeping and left the rest in the trunk of your car which we had parked at the hotel. (If you aren’t driving you can store your bags for a night). It was then just a short 10-minute walk to Grindelwald-First Gondola. Tickets for Grindelwald gondola and adventures can be purchased here.

Morning: Lake Bachalp Hike

The Grindelwald-First Gondola goes to the most famous hike in Grindelwald, Bachalpsee (Lake Bachalp). This hike to Bachalpsee is famous for the reflection views of the mountains in the lake. It is about an hour’s hike to the lake and worth every step.

We sat on the bench taking in the views and enjoying the fresh mountain air before making our way back to Berggasthaus First to check into our hotel room for the night. We also had raclette for lunch at their restaurant. After checking in, we still had an entire afternoon to explore, so it was time for Grindelwald adventures!

Afternoon: Grindelwald Adventures

There are many adventures to be had. While the lifts are open and the day is young, take the long way down the mountain instead of the gondola. The First Adventures let you have thrills as you make your way back down to Grindelwald. Start at the top with the First Flyer and then hop on the First Glider. It’s then time to mountain cart from Schreckfeld to Bort station where you’ll grab a Trotti bike all the way back to Grindelwald. Make sure you time it so you can catch the last gondola back up to spend the night!

Evening: First Cliff Walk and Berggasthaus First

Since we were staying at the top, we had the chance to walk the First Cliff Walk anytime we liked. Once the gondolas close for the night, the only people up there are those staying overnight. The best time for us was at sunset where there wasn’t another soul in sight. It was then time for dinner and relaxing at Berggasthaus First. And let me confirm, Berggasthaus First was the best sleep we had in all of Switzerland! Book your Grindelwald adventures here.

Day 10 – Sunrise at Bachalpsee and more hikes

It’s bright and early for another shot at seeing Bachalpsee at sunrise. This is the time of day you’ll have it all to yourself as the number of people who can stay at Grindelwald First is limited. Sunrise is the best time to see Balchapsee, so head out before breakfast for a fun hike and gorgeous views.

Morning: Bachalpsee Hike – First – Männlichen

After our sunrise hike and breakfast at Berggasthaus First, we had another day of adventure ahead. It was a bit of a trek to get to our next adventure, but that is part of the fun. We had the chance to ride a few gondolas and trains as we made our way back to Grindelwald Terminal where we caught a gondola to Männlichen Station. Make sure to keep an eye out for marmots from the gondola.

For more on Switzerland planning check out these posts:

• 15 Swiss Foods to try in Switzerland or at Home
• The Ultimate One-Week Switzerland Itinerary
• 10 Simple Ways to Travel Switzerland on a Budget
• Our Best Switzerland Pictures

Lunch: Männlichen

At the top, we enjoyed a delicious lunch on the patio with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. This is a lovely place to hang out for a bite to eat. There is a family-friendly playground, restaurant, and viewing platform. It is also the starting point for several hiking trails which are on today’s itinerary. We are going to take you on the Männlichen Hike.

Afternoon Männlichen Hike

Hiking Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg is one of the most popular hikes in the region. This is another beautiful hike that is mostly downhill and fun for the whole family. It offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys and is a nice and easy way to end off your hiking tours in the Grindelwald region. Get your gondola tickets to here.

Evening: Harder Kulm

Once we finished our hike there was no time to relax. We had to get back on the train to Interlaken where we took another historic cogwheel train to another spectacular lookout, Harder Kulm – The Top of Interlaken. There was no way we were going to miss this view! Plus we had dinner at the top as well and indulged in a fondue dinner at Panorama Restaurant Harder Kulm. Located 1,322 metres (4,337 feet) above sea level, Harder Kulm offer views of Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, The Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Wow! You can purchase Harder Kulm Tickets through Jungfrau Railways.

It was then back to Grindelwald where we checked back into Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof for the night and said goodbye to Grindelwald.

• The Complete Guide to Grindelwald-First in Switzerland
• Spectacular Switzerland, a Visit to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

Day 11 – Leukerbad

It’s time to move on from Grindelwald this morning and after all the hiking and outdoors, Leukerbad is the perfect pit stop to relax in a genuine Swiss Spa. The drive from Grindelwald to Leukerbad is amazing.

Morning: Transfer from Grindelwald to Leukerbad

One of the most memorable moments was driving onto the Lötschberg Car Train that took us right through the mountain. It was the wildest thing we had ever seen. We sat in our cars as the 15-minute ride took us from the midlands to Valais.

Where to Stay in Leukerbad

Even though Leukerbad has several public spas, our hotel, Hotel Les Sources des Alpes , had its own beautiful spa. This luxurious hotel is a tranquil retreat that was the perfect place to rejuvenate and recharge for a day before continuing on with the rest of our Switzerland road trip. We loved our suite so much, (mainly because it felt like its own little spa), that we never wanted to leave. But we did.

Afternoon: Spa

Upon arrival at Leukerbad, we went directly to the Leukerbad Therme Spa. There are 65 natural springs containing 3.9 million liters of hot water in Leukerbad making it one of the largest and most popular spa resorts in Switzerland. Leukerbad Therme is the biggest and most popular, but there are other spas including the quieter Therme 51°.

After a day of outdoor fun or spa treatments, dinner at restaurant La Malvoisie in Hotel Les Sources des Alpes was one of the most romantic meals we had in Switzerland. We really loved staying at this hotel.

Day 12 – Leukerbad to Zermatt

Leukerbad was a short stay on our Switzerland road trip, but we made a note to go back. It is incredible and the perfect spot for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. In fact, our friend Carol of Wandering Carol had her honeymoon in Leukerbad . As an avid traveler, it says a lot that she chose Leukerbad for her special vacation.

Gemmi and Torrent Cable Cars

It’s not only the spas that draw people to Leukerbad, there are two mountain railways Gemmi and Torrent that take you up to see beautiful views of the four-thousand-meter peaks of the Valais Alps. If you have time, make your way up one of the cable cars for views of the valley and for a morning hike before driving on. You can purchase cable car tickets directly on sight.

Drive to Matterhorn Terminal Tasch – Zermatt

It’s only an hour and a half drive from Leukerbad to Matterhorn Terminal Tasch. Terminal Tasch is where we parked our car, grabbed our luggage , and hopped on the train to Zermatt. Zermatt doesn’t allow motorized vehicles, so everyone visiting Zermatt takes the train in. Once we arrived, we could understand why no cars are allowed. The streets are narrow and very busy with pedestrian traffic.

Where to Stay in Zermatt

Staying at Hotel Aristella, we had their driver pick us up at the train station in Zermatt. Electric taxis and bicycles are allowed in town and they zip around at breakneck speeds, so keep an eye out for them when walking. We didn’t spend long at the hotel that is located downtown and instead dropped off our bags to quickly enjoy as much time as possible in this beautiful region.

Afternoon: Matterhorn Museum Zermatlantis and Old Town

When arriving in Zermatt in the afternoon, there isn’t enough time to head up the mountain before the last gondola down, so we made our way downtown to see the Matterhorn Museum Zermatlantis. This museum is a great introduction to the history of Zermatt and climbing the mighty Matterhorn. Read more about Zermatt: Incredible Zermatt, Switzerland – 23 Exciting Things to See and Do

The museum is located in the main square close to the Old Village of Hinterdorf. Make sure to go and see the historic buildings that date back to the 16th century after browsing the museum. The best place to view them is from Pfarrkirche St. Mauritius (Paris Church of St. Mauritius) which is located next door to the museum.

Dinner at Restaurant Spycher

Dinner was included in our stay at Hotel Aristella in our half-board package and boy were we glad. Restaurant Spycher seems to be one of the hottest restaurants in town. It was booked out and packed each evening and with good reason. The food and service were excellent and its flaming flambe dishes made dining out an event!

Evening: Zermatt Matterhorn Viewoint

After dinner, we made our way to The Zermatt Matterhorn Viewpoint. Just a 15-minute walk (albeit uphill) from our hotel, this viewpoint has one of the best views of the town with the Matterhorn standing proud overhead. It was a perfect ending to our first day in Zermatt. After sunset, it was an early evening because we had an amazing day of adventures ahead!

Day 13 – Mountain Bike 4 Lakes Bike tour

I am not exaggerating when I say this was the most beautiful day we had on our entire road trip through Switzerland. After picking up our e-bike mountain bikes at Slalom Sport in downtown Zermatt, we hopped aboard the train at Sunnegga Valley Station to take it up to the Rothorn Valley Station where we started the 4 Lakes Bike Tour from Blauherd Station. You can rent mountain bikes at  Slalom Sport – Intersport .

From here we explored four mountain lakes, Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, and Moosjisee. Each lake was spectacular showing one extraordinary view after another. We spent the morning stopping at each lake before stopping for a picnic at Moosjisee. We brought along a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water with the Matterhorn standing guard. For more information on lift tickets visit: Zermatt.ch And read more at 5 Lakes Hike Zermatt – Incredible Matterhorn Views

Afternoon: Oberer Höhenweg Bike Tour

After lunch, it was time to tackle a proper mountain biking trail and we hopped on the Oberer Höhenweg Bike Tour. This single track takes you through the forest before coming out to a sheer rocky cliff. Don’t worry there is a steel cable for safety and you can get off and push if you think you might fall into the abyss. After the cliff, the single-track trail is really easy for intermediate riders and a ton of fun to whip through the forest.

Evening: Explore Zermat and the Vispa River

When we got back to Zermatt, we made sure to utilize our bikes to see more of the area. You can cover a lot of ground on e-bikes, so we made our way out to the other side of town to explore along the waterfront of the Vispa River. Just remember, you cannot ride your bikes along the pedestrian street. When you come to the shopping street, you must dismount and walk.

We were exhausted after a day of biking and after enjoying another delicious dinner at Restaurant Spycher, we took advantage of the hotel sauna and went straight to bed. We had a pre-sunrise wake up call ahead of us.

Day 14 – Lake Stellisee and Gornergrat

Today is one of the most iconic days in Zermatt. We retraced our steps a bit following the first half of our cycling route as we awoke early to hike to Lake Stellisee for sunrise. For information on lift tickets to the Matterhorn visit: Zermatt.ch

Morning Sunrise at Stellisee and Five Lakes Hike

Stellisee is probably the most photographed lake in the Matterhorn region and the best time to take that photo is at sunrise. It offers the picture-perfect reflection of the Matterhorn. Going at sunrise gives you the chance to see it without the crowds. After a train, gondola, and a 30-minute hike we made it with minutes to spare to see the sunlight up the mountain. It was spectacular. Once you finish up here, you can enjoy breakfast (included in your pass) at restaurant Fluhalp which is about a 10 minute walk away. Book your ticket for sunrise ahead of time . To get to Stellisee, take the Sunnegga Valley Station train.

Hike to Riffelalp

It is then on to hike the five lakes. If you went mountain biking, you will have already seen these lakes so you can skip them as we did, but it is the best way to get to your next stop. So, we suggest hiking as quickly as possible to Riffelalp where you’ll catch the cogwheel train to Gornergrat. You don’t want to miss Gornergrat.

Afternoon: Gornergrat

If you thought Stellisee was beautiful wait until you see Gornergrat. As the train climbs higher, the mountains come into view and it seems as if a wall of glaciers are strewn before your eyes. Arriving at the top is a place where you can have lunch and take in views for days. Make sure to go into the Zooom multimedia experience to experience paragliding via virtual reality and the 3D cinema. For tickets and information to Gornergrat visit Mountain Railways.

But don’t linger too long here, the hike is what is the star attraction. Make your way downhill to any station along the way. It is hands down the most beautiful hike we’ve ever done. As you hike down a view of its 29 four thousand meter peaks (13,000 feet) peaks dominated the landscape. The Matterhorn, Switzerland’s highest peak, Dufourspitze at 4,634 meters, and the second-largest glacier, Gorner Glacier surround you. It’s impossible to do this hike quickly as other are so many awe-inspiring views.

This is also the hike where you can try to find the famous black nose sheep of Zermatt. It’s not too difficult to find them, they wear GPS collars so you can track them! We followed the dots on our phones until we happened up on the sheep and their herder relaxing under a bridge (Find the sheep  through GPS here) . They are the most adorable creatures.

After marveling at views for days, we made our way back to the hotel for a lovely dinner and early night. All that fresh air sure makes one sleep really well. I must admit, that we didn’t take advantage of any nightlife in Zermatt. We spent the entire three days outdoors and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Week 3 – Mountains to Mediterranean

Week 3 of our Switzerland road trip changes course and takes us from Zermatt to the Italian region of Switzerland in Ticino. But before we hit the road, there is one more excursion to do in the mountains of Zermatt.

Day 15 – Morning at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Before leaving Zermatt, this is a morning you won’t want to miss. We checked out of the hotel and stored our luggage so we could take our time to enjoy the morning ahead. We didn’t want to rush back to check out, so we caught the first gondola up and took our time experiencing yet another extraordinary mountain view.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is a viewpoint where at the top, you witness a panoramic view of 38 four-thousand-meter peaks (13,000 feet) and 14 glaciers. The gondola ride itself is worth the experience as you glide over a beautiful glacier on the way to the top. Usually, this vantage point is left for helicopter tours, but you pass directly over massive crevasses that take your breath away.

Like Grindelwald, there is an ice palace where we walked through ice tunnels 15 meters below the surface of the glacier. This one has a slide though which was a lot of fun! We also saw people skiing up here in the middle of summer and there is a restaurant if you want to eat lunch before moving on.

Don’t miss going to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you’ll love it! Tickets to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise start at 53 CHF.

Afternoon: Zermatt to Ticino

It is now time to move on from the mountains to drive to southern Switzerland near the Italian border. We grabbed lunch in Terminal Tasch at a market to make up time. It was a full morning at Glacier Paradise, so there was no time to waste to get to Ticino before dinner.

As we made our way towards the border of Italy, we had an adventurous drive through winding mountain roads. This drive required our full attention but it is difficult because we wanted to pull over regularly to look at all the beautiful views. One of the most memorable scenic viewpoints was Nufenen Pass. At 2478m, (8130ft) it is Switzerland’s second-highest paved alpine road pass. We snaked our way up as Maseratis and Porches zipped past us at high speed like the hairpin turns were nothing! It was worth every twist as at the top we were treated to a gorgeous view of the valley below.

Afternoon: Arrive Ticino and Relax

On the other side, it is as if we entered a different country. Ticino is a lake region of Switzerland that feels like a little slice of Tuscany in Italy. For the next few days, we visited the lakeside towns of Lugano, Locarno, and Ascona – The Lake Como(s) of Switzerland! Read more: Things to do in Lugano and the Ticino Region of Switzerland .

Where to Stay in Ticino

Making a base at Resort Collina D’Oro overlooking Lake Lugano, we had three luxurious nights in this five-star resort and spa. We ate dinners here (included in our half-board package) and loved every meal we had. With its Italian influence, Ticino really had the best food in Switzerland!

Day 16 – Lavertezzo in the Verzasca Valley

It is in Ticino that you will be thankful for having a car. Today is a big driving day to explore the surrounding areas. One of the first places you must visit in Ticino is the Verzasca Valley. Known for its vibrant turquoise waters, Valle Verzasca boasts a vibrant turquoise river of rushing waters flowing through a series of cliffs, rocks, and historic bridges. It’s a popular swimming and hiking spot.

On our way out (or back) we stopped at the Verzasca Dam. This dam was made famous in James Bond’s GoldenEye where Pierce Brosnan leaped from the 220-meter high feat of engineering. It is a sight to see and you too can jump off it if you have the nerve!

Afternoon – Ascona

After exploring the Verzasca Valley, we hopped in our car to drive back down the winding road to explore the lakeside town of Ascona. Located on Lake Maggiore, Ascona is a colourful town with vibrant buildings lining the lakeshore. Pedestrian streets in the old town make it perfect for shopping or strolling with an ice cream in hand. If you want to add another country to your bucket list, take a boat ride to cross into Italy for an afternoon. It’s also the perfect spot for lunch.

On our way back to the hotel, we also popped in to visit the town of Locarno. Also located on Lake Maggiore, Locarno has a huge square, Piazza Grande (one of the largest piazza’s in Switzerland). It too has colourful buildings of pink pastels and vibrant blues. Make sure to visit the 12th-century castle, Castello Visconteo, and if you have time, the sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso. Located above Locarno in Orselina, it is famous as being the pilgrimage church of Madonna del Sasso where in 1480, the Virgin Mary appeared to Brother Bartholomeo da Ivrea from the San Francesco monastery.

Day 17 – Castles and Hikes

After exploring towns for a day, it is time to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site – The Bellinzona Castles. We enjoyed a coffee in the square of the capital of Ticino, Bellinzona before getting out to explore this charming town. Castle Grande is located near the main square standing proud over the town. If you have a bit of time, you can hike to all the castles. They are connected by trails that weave through vineyards and rolling hills. The return trip by walking is only a couple of hours.

Afternoon: Ritom Funicular

If you are up for more hiking, a great pit stop is to make your way out to Piotta to take the cable car up to Piora. The Ritom Funicular is a steep incline railway that was built in 1921. When you get to the top, there’s an easy hike to the reservoir located 1794 meters where you can take in the views of the valley below before heading on to Capanna Cadagno for lunch. It is an easy hike and another fun place to hike in Switzerland.

Evening – Lugano

In the evening, we made our way to Lugano for an Aperitivo. Lugano is located on Lake Lugano and has a beautiful waterfront. With two mountains framing the view (Monte San Salvatore and Mount Bre), it will remind you of Rio de Janeiro. Stroll along the 2km Lugano waterfront walk from Paradiso to Parco Ciani with an ice cream in hand, window shop along the pedestrian streets, and explore the Parco Ciani. It truly is a picturesque waterfront town.

With dinner on our terrace at Resort Collina D’Oro we had the perfect ending watching the sunset over the vineyards. It was then followed by a relaxing dip in the pool where we took advantage of the spa and sauna. I just love that our hotels in Switzerland had magnificent spas.

Day 18 – Ticino to St. Moritz

Another awesome day of driving awaits day 18 of our Switzerland road trip. The drive to St. Moritz from Lugano is 2 1/2 hours on the map, but it can take much longer with traffic. The one-lane winding road can get backed up with transport trucks blocking the way. But it is worth it because it is gorgeous and with all the motorcycles riding this road, it is clearly a popular road trip in Switzerland. Read more: Stunning St. Moritz – Summer fun in Switzerland .

Landwasser Viaduct

We took the north route to drive across Lulier Pass, one of Switzerland’s most scenic roads. We also had the chance to stop to see the famous Landwasser Viaduct. This incredible railway bridge consists of six 65m high arches spanning across the valley. It is one of the most photographed spots in Switzerland. If you time it right, you’ll be able to see the train going across (we were incredibly lucky to time this one right). One of the most popular ways to get to St. Moritz is from Zermatt on the Glacier Express, a direct train connecting the two mountain resorts.

Afternoon: Arrive St. Moritz

After arriving in St. Moritz, we checked into the ritzy Hotel Kulm to relax for the evening. This hotel is so beautiful and filled with every amenity, it’s difficult to pull yourself away from the property. We took a stroll around the hotel exploring its rich 160-year history. Read more about the history of Hotel Kulm here.

Evening: Kulm Country Club

After an afternoon experiencing its luxurious spa, outdoor infinity pool and hot tubs we took a short stroll over to the Kulm Country Club for dinner followed by a nightcap in the hotel bar before retiring to our elegant suite. The room’s complimentary bar offered beer so we enjoyed a nightcap as we overlooked twinkling lights dancing on Lake St. Moritz from our balcony.

Day 19 – Alpine Hike and Swiss Cheese

A day in St. Moritz in winter is all about skiing and snowboarding, but our visit to St. Moritz took us there on a summer road trip and it was extraordinary. In summer, it is time to hit the hiking trails. Read more: Stunning St. Moritz – Summer fun in Switzerland

Morning: Muottas Muragl to Segantini Hütte Hike

One of the premier things to do in St. Moritz in summer is to hike from Muottas Muragl to Segantini Hütte and onward to Alp Languard. This beautiful hike takes you to an elevation of 2731 meters above sea level for incredible views of snowcapped mountains and glaciers. Visit MySwitzerland.com for more information, tickets, and timetables to Muottas Muragl.

Lunch: Alp-Schaukäserei Morteratsch

The hike takes only a few hours leaving you time to enjoy lunch at the Alp-Schaukäserei Morteratsch. (The Morteratsch alpine cheese dairy) This outdoor dining venue is a popular spot for locals and tours. Here they make cheese by traditional means and you must order the cheese board and a fondue. It is truly the Swiss thing to do!

Afternoon: Drive to Bad Ragaz

It was just a short stay in St. Moritz but we found one and a half days enough to give us a taste of its beauty.So it was now time to slowly start making our way back toward Zurich. Before getting back to where we started though, we had two nights in Bad Ragaz to bask in one of the most luxurious and largest spas in Switzerland.

Where to Stay in Bad Ragaz

We arrived at the luxurious Grand Resort Bad Ragaz home to Seven restaurants, three bars, a bistro, and two spas, it’s the perfect place to end a Switzerland road trip. Tonight, we indulged in a Michelin Star dinner at Verve by Sven. The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz has 3 Michelin Star restaurants! We then had to have a cocktail in the lounge. Even though we had an early hike in the morning, how could we resist? It was then off to bed in our luxurious suite. It was an early night because we had another epic hike ahead. (have you noticed we love hiking in Switzerland?)

Day 20 – Bad Ragaz and 5 Lakes Hike

Today is a mix of a workout and relaxation so get ready to enjoy! After a delicious breakfast at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, we picked up our boxed lunch to take with us on one of Switzerland’s best hikes.

Morning 5 Lakes Hike

The Pizol 5 Lake Hike is one of the most popular hikes in all of Switzerland. The hike takes you to 5 mountain lakes that are crystal clear and ripe for photographing mountains reflecting in the waters. Unfortunately, we had a very rainy and overcast day and didn’t see the mountain vistas that were promised, so alas, we ended our hike without the views, but had the consolation of going back to a 5-star resort to enjoy two spas!

Afternoon: Tamina Therma and Grand Resort Spas

The afternoon was spent enjoying the water circuit of the thermal baths to the hot saunas. We quickly forgot our wet and soggy hike and basked in the luxury of heat and water.

When staying at the Grand Hotel Bad Ragaz, you also have access to the Tamina Therme which is also one of the most traditional and best known in Switzerland. No photographs are allowed inside the spas, but we had early morning access and special permission to photograph the hotel’s spa before it opened.

We spent the afternoon relaxing by the pool followed by a delicious Thai meal before having drinks on our balcony before bed. What a way to end our trip! Check availability and prices for Grand Resort Bad Ragaz .

Day 21 – Depart Zurich

We have now come to the final day of our three-week road trip in Switzerland. It’s an easy 90-minute drive back to Zurich from Bad Ragaz, so depending on your flight, you can either enjoy more time at the spa in the morning or make your way back early to fly back home.

Doing a Switzerland road trip was one of the most memorable travel experiences we’ve ever had. We’ve traveled through Switzerland by train before and it is fast and efficient but having the freedom to stop when we want at scenic lookouts and take detours to explore hidden gems is what really makes our travels through Switzerland special. If you plan a trip to Switzerland, choose to spend at least a little time in the car to see the country from a different perspective.

For a more comprehensive breakdown of each stop on this Switzerland Road Trip Read these articles:

• Incredible Zermatt, Switzerland – 23 Exciting Things to See and Do
• Stunning St. Moritz – Summer fun in Switzerland
• Things to do in Lugano and the Ticino Region of Switzerland
• Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary”

I love the photo of the mountain with the cloud around. Looks like a lady throwing the hair backwards haha. cheers guys

Switzerland Road Trip: The Best Itinerary + Map & Tips

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Best Road Trip in Switzerland from Zurich

Our ultimate Switzerland road trip takes you along a breathtakingly scenic route, exploring beautiful cities, incredible natural scenery, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. This Switzerland itinerary is the perfect adventure for those who love to explore.

From discovering charming lakeside towns and the dramatic Swiss Alps to tackling some of Switzerland’s most famous driving roads, you can also take time to stop and visit local wineries, discover adrenaline sports, and sample delicious Swiss cuisine on this road trip through Switzerland.

In this Switzerland road trip planner, we share travel tips, the best route between towns and cities, things to do and see along the way, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect Swiss itinerary.

Where is Switzerland?

Switzerland is a small mountainous country located in central Europe, most famous for the Dufourspitze, the second-highest mountain in the Alps, deliciously creamy Swizz chocolate, secretive Swiss banks, and Heidi, Switzerland’s most well-known literary character.

This landlocked country is home to 451 mountains and is about the size of New Jersey and is sandwiched between France and Italy , and also bordered by Austria , Germany , and Liechtenstein, which lend a cosmopolitan culture and outlook to the country.

Switzerland is not a member of the European Union or European Economic Area but it is part of the Schengen Area, meaning any time spent touring Switzerland by car counts toward your 90 in 180 days allowance.

Getting to Switzerland

Whether you’re taking a road trip to Switzerland in a car, motorcycle, or campervan, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore this spectacular European country.

You can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route, and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Fly into Zurich Airport to start your Switzerland road trip. With direct flights from America, Europe, and the UK, we recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Switzerland? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Switzerland. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Traveling in Switzerland by Car

The Swiss make it easy to see their breathtakingly beautiful country, with great roads and a well-managed and maintained network of trains, boats, and cable cars. It’s surprisingly easy to see the mountains and gain real elevation without being a super-fit hiker – everywhere you go, there are mechanical means to help you enjoy the peaks.

Although this is a Swiss Alps road trip guide, you will definitely be using trains, cable cars, and boats to see some of the top sights and attractions. If you prefer to arrange your own trips, a virtual Swiss Travel Pass  offers unlimited travel on all Swiss trains, buses, and boats and discounted or free admission to many Swiss attractions including museums and mountains.

An alternative is the  Swiss Half Fare Card  which gets you 50% discounted tickets on standard fares for trains, buses, boats, and cable cars in Switzerland, for one month. This is not a virtual card, however, and you’re still required to physically purchase your tickets.

RELATED POST: Driving in the Alps: Top Tips & Best Routes

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Switzerland.

Road Trip Switzerland: Best Time to Go

March to may.

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Switzerland, with temperatures warming up across the country. Blooming wildflowers, vibrant greenery in the mountains and cows heading out to pasture mean spring is a fantastic time to experience Switzerland by car. You’ll find the roads and cities less crowded, and most attractions will be open.

June to August

In summer, Switzerland enjoys beautiful weather and the prospect of water sports, mountain hiking, and dining al fresco. This is when locals and visitors alike head to the lake shores and mountains, meaning heavier crowds and more traffic.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time for a Swiss road trip . The grapes and crops are being harvested, food festivals celebrate the bounty of the land, and you might enjoy an Indian summer, with the fall colors of the vines aflame.

December to February

The winter months in Switzerland can be very cold, but most people come to Switzerland during the months of December to March for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. It’s not the best time for a road trip, as the spectacular mountain passes will be closed and roads can be challenging to drive.

RELATED POST: The Best of Switzerland in Summer: 17 Amazing Highlights

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Switzerland. We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Switzerland Road Trip Map & Route

We recommend completing a circular route during your road trip around Switzerland, starting and ending in Zurich. Zurich, the global capital of banking and finance, is home to Switzerland’s largest international airport.

Our two week Switzerland road trip will take you on a spectacular, circular drive through Switzerland’s iconic landscapes, covering roughly 1000km south across western Switzerland to Geneva before heading east towards Zermatt and eventually back north to Zurich.

Starting in Zurich, your first stop will be Bern, found within the curves of the Aare river. Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is known for its 12th century architecture that forms the old town or Alstadt . Your visit to Bern would be incomplete without exploring Lake Brienz, just north of the Alps, which offers breathtaking mountain views. 

After your trip to Bern, begin traveling south to Lausanne, Geneva, and Montreux, visiting Lac Léman en route. 

The following stretch of your trip will provide unrivaled views of Les Diablerets as you head towards Zermatt where you will be met with the iconic Matterhorn, a mountain in the Swiss Alps.

At this point, your road trip will begin taking you north. Drive towards Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald where we recommend stopping at the famous Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel located in the mountains of Bernese Oberland, the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion.

As you leave Grindelwald, make sure you save time for the Furka Pass as you head to Lucerne. Our Swiss road trip itinerary will continue north to our initial starting point, the city of Zurich.

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Switzerland
• The Rough Guide to Switzerland
• DK Eyewitness Switzerland  

Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary

Zurich – Bern – Lausanne – Geneva – Montreux – Nendaz – Zermatt – Interlaken – Lauterbrunnen – Grindelwald – Furka Pass – Lucerne – Zurich

• Distance 991km
• Duration 10-14 days
• Drive Time 17 hours

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Flying into Zurich and renting a car is the easiest way to kickstart your Switzerland road trip. Get our one day Zurich itinerary complete with map, recommendations & Zurich travel tips to help plan your trip to this stylish and cultured Swiss city.

Zurich’s old town is full of cobbled streets with cozy bars, traditional Swiss restaurants, and art museums. It is also home to some of Zurich’s famous Romanesque churches. You can indulge in fabulous shopping on the Bahnhofstrasse with its luxury boutiques, visit Lindenhof Hill with its fantastic views of the city, and sample the famous Lindt chocolate.

If you prefer to have your day organized for you, check out this popular and highly rated private tour with a local guide and get to know the beautiful city of Zurich with a professional guide who will show you the city’s hidden gems and also help you experience this popular destination like a real local.

In the evening, head for Seebad Enge , one of Lake Zurich’s swimming pools, which turns into a lively bar at night. Stop here for a cold beer and a homemade grilled snack to start your evening off the right way, before heading to Oepfelchammer . A mainstay of Zurich dining since 1801, Oepfelchammer is the place to go if you want traditional Swiss food made with regional and seasonal produce.

• Where to Stay in Zurich

Upmarket: Marktgasse Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Placid Hotel Design & Lifestyle – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Meininger Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Rhine Falls Side Trip

Just under an hour away from Zurich in Schaffhausen are the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe with a width measuring 150m (492ft) and a height of 23m (75ft). Over 600,000 liters of water per second plunge over the falls in the summer.

There is an elevator to take you up from Laufen Castle to the viewing platforms for a breathtaking view of the falls. A boat ride to the falls basin is also on offer, and well worth the time. Across the river is a huge rope park, so you can glide from tree to tree and admire the falls from every angle.

If you prefer not to drive, there are lots of day trips to the Rhine Falls from Zurich, but we think this highly recommended Rhine Falls day trip from Zurich is the best. Your driver will take you through a scenic landscape of charming villages to visit the Rhine Falls, you’ll cross the river to the Belvedere Trail viewing platform for incredible views, and learn about the medieval history of Stein am Rhein.

Driving from Zurich to Bern is a scenic journey that takes approximately an hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. From Zurich, you will head towards the Swiss Alps, passing through picturesque villages along the way.

Travel Tip:  We would highly recommend taking a detour on your drive from Zurich to Bern to visit the UNESCO Biosphäre Entlebuch . This Swiss national park is a biosphere reserve that encompasses approximately 39,000 hectares and is an incredible expanse of the untouched Swiss landscape. 

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is renowned for its well-preserved old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its historic clock tower, the Zytglogge, which is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, and the Bear Pits, or Bärengraben , where bears have been housed since 1513 and have come to symbolize the city.

Bern has a variety of unique experiences to offer and the best way to see the city is with our recommended guided walking tour where you’ll have the opportunity to admire Bern’s fountains, towers, quaint streets, and arcades as you learn about the city’s 800 years of history from a local guide.

• Where to Stay in Bern

Upmarket: Stay KooooK Bern City – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Los Lorentes Hotel Bern City – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

As you leave Bern and head towards Lausanne, you will be surrounded by the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views of the country’s mountainous natural beauty. However, as you draw closer to Lausanne, the scenery will change from mountains and rolling hills to the shores of Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Leman, where the city of Lausanne is located.  

Lausanne is home to a number of historic churches, including the Cathedral of Notre Dame, as well as several museums and art galleries, including the Olympic Museum , a must-visit for sports fans.

Lausanne is a foodie’s paradise. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties, such as fondue, raclette, and rosti, while enjoying the stunning views of Lake Geneva. 

Travel Tip: From Lausanne, you can take a day trip to Glacier 3000 , an alpine experience near Les Diablerets. A 15 minute cable car journey will give you 360-degree views of the Swiss mountains. Once at the summit, you will enjoy spectacular views of Lac Leman. The Glacier 3000 Peak Walk, the only bridge in the world connecting two summits, provides daring visitors with panoramic views of the alpine landscape. 

• Where to Stay in Lausanne

Upmarket: Hotel Angleterre & Résidence – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Moxy Lausanne City – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hôtel du Marché – Booking.com | Agoda

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Driving from Lausanne to Geneva takes approximately 45 minutes and takes you along the shores of Lake Geneva, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Geneva is also the place where our Switzerland road trip route crosses with the Grand Tour of Switzerland route, which takes in five alpine passes, twelve UNESCO World Heritage sites, and 22 lakes.

Travel Tips:   There are many mountain peaks along this route. If you love walking, why not consider stretching your legs and exploring the areas surrounding La Dôle, Le Noirmont, or Crêt de la Neige? 

As you approach Geneva, you will be greeted by the city’s modern skyline, punctuated by the iconic Jet d’Eau, a 140-meter-high fountain located in the heart of the city.

Geneva is renowned for its rich history, beautiful parks and gardens, and world-class museums, including the Museum of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent. We would highly recommend a Lake Geneva cruise to enjoy scenic views of the Swiss and French Alps, as well as Geneva’s landmarks, from the waters of Lake Geneva.

• Where to Stay in Geneva

Upmarket: Hôtel Longemalle – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Mon Repos – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Meininger Hotel Genève – Booking.com | Agoda

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check out our Europe road trip ideas .

Montreux 

Driving from Geneva to Montreux will take you further along the shores of Lake Geneva and through the picturesque Swiss countryside. The mild climate of Montreux, with a backdrop of the Swiss Alps, makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists

Montreux is home to a number of cultural and historical landmarks, including the Château de Chillon, a medieval castle located on a small island in the lake. The city is also renowned for the Montreaux Jazz Festival , which takes place every summer and attracts music lovers from all over the world, and as the home of Charlie Chaplin and his family at Manoir de Ban in Corsier-sur-Vevey for 25 years.

Travel Tip: The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located a 20-minute drive from Montreux. They feature miles of vineyards along the hillsides of Lake Geneva and are a must-see for wine lovers.

• Where to Stay in Montreux

Upmarket: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: La Rouvenaz – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Bon Port – Booking.com | Agoda

It’s worth making a stop at Nendaz, at the foot of Mount Tracouet. You won’t be surprised to learn that there is a traditional cable car up the mountain, helping you to enjoy the incredible landscape which surrounds you.

If you’re passing Nendaz in summer you may be lucky enough to experience the Swiss Alphorn Festival . This annual festival held in late July celebrates a work of Swiss tradition and history. The alphorn is a longhorn (around 11 feet) made of wood, historically used as a means of communication, and now used in Swiss folk music.

During the festival, alpenhorn blowers from the entire world descend for the official alphorn blowing competition, a trachten parade featuring folk costumes, concerts, folklore events, village balls, and an alphorn concert which involves a band with over 150 alphorn players! This really is a spectacle and very worth seeing.

• Where to Stay in Nendaz

Upmarket: Nendaz 4 Vallées & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Le Cret Haute Nendaz – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Gîte de Planchouet – Booking.com | Agoda

Zermatt 

The drive from Montreux to Zermatt will be one of the longest legs of your trip! However, driving this incredible route will be an unforgettable experience as you further explore the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

As you approach Zermatt, you will be surrounded by towering, mountain peaks offering a glimpse into the heart of the Swiss wilderness. Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain resorts and is renowned for its ski slopes and breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Swiss Alps.

Did you know that Zermatt is car free? You have to leave your car at one of the parking facilities in nearby Täsch. From there, Zermatt is 12 minutes awy by train, or you can grab a taxi direct to your hotel.

Definitely set aside time to hike in the Matterhorn Valley! We recommend the stunning five lakes hike, which passes the unique lakes of the Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee, the latter of which is good for swimming. This is a moderately easy walk and you can reach the trailhead by taking the Sunnegga funicular from Zermatt, and then the gondola to Blauherd.

As well as hiking, Zermatt offers a range of other outdoor activities. With over 360km of ski slopes, Zermatt is one of the largest ski areas in the Swiss Alps and offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing options for all levels.

A number of restaurants in Zermatt, such as Restaurant Zum See and The Cambrian , offer mountain views alongside locally sourced ingredients and traditional Swiss dishes. 

Travel Tip: No trip to Zermatt is complete without a trip up the Matterhorn, which is one of the highest summits in the Alps at 4,478 meters above sea level. Take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car or the Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train to the top for panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and the Matterhorn. 

RELATED POST: Most Beautiful Places In Switzerland That You Must Visit!

• Where to Stay in Zermatt

Upmarket: Hotel Schweizerhof Zermatt – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Le Mirabeau Hotel & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Bahnhof – Booking.com | Agoda

Interlaken 

The drive from Zermatt to Interlaken takes you south through the towering peaks of the Swiss Alps. On route, you will pass the Weisshorngruppe. This mountain range is dominated by the Weisshorn peak, which reaches a height of 4,506 above sea level and provides a spectacular backdrop for your road trip.

There are lots of things to do in Interlaken and you can take in the cultural attractions, such as museums, churches, and traditional Swiss architecture. 

Interlaken is also a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts, Interlaken offers a range of activities such as tandem paragliding , bungee jumping, and white-water rafting on the nearby Lütschine river .

Bordering Interlaken are Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. You can enjoy a range of activities on the emerald waters of these lakes. Lake Brienz offers jet boat tours and kayaking experiences while Lake Thun is home to the St Beatus Caves; a cave system featuring lit pathways through tunnels and chambers.

Travel Tip: While in Interlaken, take the time to visit the Harder Kulm viewpoint . With an altitude of 1,322 meters, this high vantage point allows visitors to enjoy unrivaled views of Interlaken and Unterseen.

• Where to Stay in Interlaken

Upmarket: Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Chalet Swiss – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Walters Hostel Interlaken – Booking.com | Agoda

Jungfraujoch Side Trip

The Jungfraujoch is a topographical saddle connecting two major 4,000m+ mountains of the Bernese Alps – the Jungfrau and the Mönch. It lies at an elevation of 3,463 meters above sea level and is directly overlooked by the rocky prominence of the Sphinx, and the incredible Sphinx Observatory.

The Jungfraujoch Railway is the highest in Europe and trains leave Kleine Scheidegg railway station regularly throughout the year for the “top of Europe”. Once there, you can experience breathtaking views of the snow-capped Jungfrau-Aletsch region from the Sphinx Observation Deck and the Glacier Plateau, before hitting the snow park for snow tubing, sledding, and zip lining.

In the Ice Palace are intricately detailed ice carvings and sculptures of animals such as bears, penguins, and eagles, and you’ll also be able to learn about the history of the railway here. Just to top off your visit, nearby is Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven!

With over one million visitors a year, it’s best to book your Jungfraujoch tickets well in advance. With our recommended round trip to the top of Europe package , you get your train tickets, plus entry to all the Jungfaujoch experiences except the snow park. These tickets are on a buy now, pay later basis, so you can always cancel at no cost if your plans change.

Lauterbrunnen  

Driving for twenty minutes will take you from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen. Lauterbrunnen is known for its 72 waterfalls, including the famous 300-meter-high Staubbach Falls, and the nearby Trümmelbach Falls, which gush through mountain crevices past viewing platforms.

Hiking, paragliding, rock climbing, and canyoning are all popular ways to experience what Lauterbrunnen has to offer. For a truly unique experience, consider viewing the landscape and the Bernese Alps from a hot air balloon.

Travel Tip: Lauterbrunnen and Mürren served as filming locations for the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service in 1969. From Stechelberg, get the Schilthorn cable cars to Bond World and the Birg Station at 2,970 meters. Once there, test your nerves on the Skyline Walk overlooking a vertical wall and tackle the Thrill Walk along a 200-meter cliff pathway, before walking the remaining distance to the iconic 007 Piz Gloria restaurant, which revolves to reveal a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

• Where to Stay in Lauterbrunnen

Upmarket: Hotel Silberhorn – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Schützen Lauterbrunnen – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Valley Hostel – Booking.com | Agoda

Grindelwald 

The drive from Lauterbrunnen to Grindelwald takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on road conditions, passing traditional Swiss mountain chalets. These include Sulwald Stübli , a restaurant with mountain views that we highly suggest grabbing lunch in. 

Grindelwald is surrounded by towering peaks including the famous Eiger mountain. The challenging hike along the Eiger Trail offers breathtaking views of this iconic mountain peak.

For a much easier walk, head to the First Cliff Walk at the summit of the First mountain at 2200m above sea level, a quick ride from the village on the Grindelwald Firstbahn cable car. The walk itself is along a metal walkway and a single-rope hanging bridge constructed along a cliff. At the end of the walkway, there is a spectacular observation platform that stretches out 45 meters above the mountains below.

We suggest experiencing the Grindelwald-Männlichen Cableway while in Grindelwald. This cable car ride offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the famous peaks of the Eiger and Wetterhorn.

Travel Tip:  For an out-of-this-world experience, visit Grindelwald Glacier Canyon , an underground labyrinth carved out by the 250 million-year-old Grindelwald Glacier.

• Where to Stay in Grindelwald

Upmarket: Bergwelt Grindelwald Alpine Resort – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Sunstar Hotel & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Grindelwald Youth Hostel – Booking.com | Agoda

Furka Pass 

To reach the Furka Pass, just over an hour from Grindelwald, you’ll first have to cross the Grimsel Pass, meaning you’ll bag two of Switzerland’s best driving roads in a day. These high-altitude mountain passes in the Swiss Alps are famous for their incredible scenic drives. 

Remember, you will need to time your travel dates correctly to experience this world-renowned drive! The Grimsel and Furka Pass are only open between June and October due to travel conditions and snow on the roads, and will appear closed on our interactive map if you’re planning your route outside of the summer season.

When the road is closed you can transport your rental car by train in the Furka Base Tunnel , connecting Realp and Oberwald.

Travel Tip: The Furka Pass is located in a protected natural area, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, the road up the Furka Pass is steep, narrow, and winding, so it’s important to drive with caution, especially if you’re not used to mountain driving.

Lugano Side Trip

This is more of an optional extra than a side trip! On the other side of the Furka Pass, you have the option to head north on Route 2 to Lucerne, or south to Lugano, a good hour’s drive away. You’ll want a few days spare for this Lugano side trip!

Lugano is in an Italian-speaking region and has a distinctive Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures which are reflected in its architecture and cuisine. The city stands on the shore of beautiful Lake Lugano, surrounded by mountains, including Monte San Salvatore, and is full of lively squares, lakeside walks, fun shopping streets, and colorful parks.

To tick another country off your list, hop on a boat from the downtown pier of Lugano Centrale to either Porlezza or Ponte Tresa, both of which are in Italy.

The charming city of Lucerne is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and lakes, showcasing the beauty of the Swiss countryside. A trip to Lucerne is incomplete without exploring Lake Lucerne. We would recommend experiencing the lake on a boat tour, by kayaking or paddleboarding.

While in Lucerne, we would recommend taking a Lucerne city tour to see the Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and Lucerne’s historic old town. While visiting this city, you can also take a brilliant Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus trip , known as the golden round trip, which takes you on a boat, cogwheel railway, aerial cableway, and finally a gondola offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the city itself.

Driving from Lucerne to Zurich takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and is the final travel day on your ultimate Switzerland road trip. 

• Where to Stay in Lucerne

Upmarket: Grand Hotel National Luzern – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Anstatthotel Horw – Booking.com | Agoda

Mount Titlis Side Trip

A half-hour scenic drive from Lucerne to Engelberg will take you to an unmissable Swiss experience. The Titlis Glacier, found atop Mount Titlis is reached on the Rotair revolving cable car from Engelberg – yep, a rotating cable car!

You can also experience an unforgettable adventure on the Ice Flyer chairlift, step inside a glacier cave and cross the Titlis cliff walk bridge suspended high over the Swiss Alps.

If you prefer not to drive, this highly rated half day tour from Lucerne will transport you to Engelberg and include all the experiences Mount Titlis has to offer.

A road trip through Switzerland is filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. From the rolling hills and pristine lakes surrounding Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne, to the stunning alpine landscapes of Zermatt, Interlaken, and Grindelwald, Switzerland offers a wealth of scenic vistas and outdoor activities.

Along the way, you can explore charming old towns, visit UNESCO world heritage sites, sample delicious Swiss cuisine, and relax in some of Europe’s most beautiful and serene natural settings.

Switzerland Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Switzerland.

• Search for affordable flights to Switzerland with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Switzerland with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Switzerland with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable car rentals in Switzerland with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Tips for Driving in Switzerland

Travelling in Switzerland by car is a pleasure. The roads in Switzerland are well maintained and the drivers are courteous and measured. The engineering of the mountain passes and complex tunnels and bridges that ribbon across the landscape is a real marvel.

Whether you’re traveling in your own vehicle or flying in and renting a car, you need to follow these rules when you drive and travel in Switzerland;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Switzerland.
• You may need a visa to enter Switzerland, you can find out more on the State Secretariat for Migration website .
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle when you road trip in Switzerland.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an IDP, you can check here .
• It is compulsory to carry a warning triangle inside the car, not in the boot.
• If you wear glasses you must carry a spare pair.
• You will require a Swiss motorway vignette or toll sticker if you want to use the autobahn. It’s almost impossible to avoid doing so, and it’s easy to buy a sticker online , at the border or at a service station just inside the country. If you’re renting a car, the vignette will be included.
• If you’re planning a winter road trip to Switzerland, you should carry snow chains. Road signs will let you know when you need to put them on the car.
• In Switzerland, motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left. Unless otherwise indicated, the vehicle coming from the right has priority at intersections.
• Drivers approaching roundabouts must give way to all traffic already on them unless otherwise indicated by signs.
• If you have a GPS navigation system that shows you where any speed cameras are, you must deactivate this function. Carrying or using radar detection equipment is illegal when driving through Switzerland.
• You may only use a mobile phone whilst driving with a hands-free device.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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"Rocky, wild and unpredictable" — why Baja California is ideal offroading country

Unfurling for more than 750 miles down a stick-thin peninsula, Baja California has long been known for water adventures — but new off-roading tours help travellers see it from a different perspective.

Gripping the roof handle and staring silently over the dashboard, I avert my gaze from the 160ft drop to my left. There’s just six inches of dirt road standing between us and the cliff edge: one wrong move from our driver, and the pickup truck we’re in is going straight into the Sea of Cortez.

The first time I visited Mexico’s Baja California, the world’s second-longest peninsula, it was on a backpacking trip through Central America. I hitchhiked and bussed over 650 miles from Tijuana, on the border with the US, to Todos Santos, just short of Baja’s most southerly point, Cabo San Lucas. Travelling along the Carretera Transpeninsular, I stopped at every major town along Baja’s main highway, wine-tasting in Ensenada, whale-watching in Guerrero Negro and swimming with sea lions on Espiritu Santo Island.

During those long drives, I’d stare out at the stark desert landscape for hours: salt-encrusted greasewood shrubs and giant cardón cacti sprouted from swathes of sand and clay-red mountains, which often turned candyfloss pink at sunset. But what caught my eye were the narrow dirt tracks, hundreds of them crisscrossing the desert like a map drawn in the sand, veering off the highway towards sun-baked sierras and hidden turquoise coves. One day, I thought to myself, I’d return to Baja California to see where those roads led.

Five years on, I’ve come to La Paz, in the south of the Baja California peninsula, to join Baja Expeditions’ first-ever overlanding trip. The company has specialised in whale-watching, kayaking and wild camping in the state since the 1970s, but has recently branched out with off-roading tours to encourage visitors to explore the peninsula’s less-visited interior.

“People think Baja is just beaches and whales,” says our driver Mike Thorneycroft, a Canadian who moved to Baja California in 2020. “But it’s more than that. These trips are about getting people out of the resorts and into Baja’s least-visited communities, and learning some of their history and culture.”

Mike gets us past the cliff edge safely, manoeuvring around asteroid-sized potholes and boulders with ease as we climb up and over Sierra de la Laguna, part of a mountain range that connects Baja California Sur, the southern state of Baja California, with southern California in the US.  

On slightly wider roads, I start to relax and take in the views: unlike the parched desert I’d seen from the highway years ago, these mountains are lush from recent hurricane rains, flourishing with lime-green mesquite trees and pink and yellow wildflowers. We cross arroyos — dry riverbeds that fill up after heavy rainfall — flowing with crystalline water, where orange butterflies and free-roaming piglets from a nearby ranch are taking a drink. A vulture and a flaming red cardinal bird join soon after.

“Baja California is perfect for off-roading,” says Mike, who organises and competes in long-distance off-road rallies across the state. “The roads are rocky, wild and unpredictable, changing quickly in the rainy season. But that’s what makes it exciting.”

Near the former silver-mining town of   El Triunfo, we stop at the Santuario de los Cactus, a community-run garden with some   of the oldest and rarest cacti on earth, including the cardón, the world’s largest cactus. The garden’s grey-moustached volunteer caretaker, Guadalupe ‘Lupe’ Gonzalez, shows us around, pointing out which cacti fruits are edible and how to extract water from their flesh. He also shows us cacti species used to treat kidney stones, stomach aches and open wounds.

“I learnt about the medicinal properties of cacti from the rancheros (ranchers),” says Lupe, caressing the spines of a 400-year-old cactus as if they were whiskers. He’s been caring for the plants here for more than 30 years and offers guided tours of the garden for a small donation. “But this knowledge comes from the Indians. There are none left here now, but we know how to survive in the desert because of them.”

Before the Spanish arrived, Baja California was inhabited by three major Indigenous groups: the Cochimí, the Guaycura and the Pericú. Ancient rock paintings in Sierra de San Francisco, around 465 miles north of where I am and described by UNESCO as some of the most impressive collections of rock paintings in the world, suggest that these tribes had lived on the peninsula for at least 10,000 years.  

Although the Spanish colonised Baja California much later than Mexico’s mainland, around the late 17th century, the culture and history of these local Indigenous groups was erased more quickly than in the rest of Mexico. Some experts believe this is because the region’s Indigenous groups were nomadic hunter-gatherers, who lacked the big cities and societal structures that helped preserve the legacies of the Mayans and Aztecs in other Mexican states. Today, very few Indigenous groups remain, with most living in the north of Baja California.

After a few hours of driving along the spectacular Barriles Santa Teresa coastal road, we make the steep descent to Palo Blanquito beach, where we’ll be spending the night. It’s a wild strip of sand, where milky-red cliffs crumble into a dazzling turquoise sea studded with volcanic rock. Come sunset, it’s just our truck on the beach and a flock of pelicans floating on the dead-still water, like rubber ducks in a jade-coloured bath. We eat refried beans and chicken burritos under the stars, watching a brilliant-white crescent moon rise over the water. That night, I sleep to the sound of the waves lapping gently at the shoreline.

The next morning, I watch the beach come to life from my tent. As the sun rises above the horizon, the sea turns from liquid silver to light pink, illuminating the inside of the tent with a warm glow. A family of pelicans — each one resembling a light aircraft — skim across the water with mouths agape, hoping to catch one of the flying fish backflipping through the air. Eager to join the action, I roll out of the tent and into the sea, plunging head first into the crystal-clear water with my mask and snorkel. Below the surface is an underwater city made of coral and volcanic rock, and colourful fish: I see a long, translucent cornetfish; a tiny cortez rainbow wrasse; and an enormous shoal of California yellowtail, the soft morning light bouncing off their tinfoil-like skin. It’s tempting to stay longer on this wild, empty beach, lounging on the rocks and floating in the warm turquoise waters as the resident pelicans do. But Mike has packed up camp and started the engine — it’s time to continue our journey through the desert roads of Baja California. “That’s the thing with overlanding,” says Mike, opening the passenger door for me to get in. “There’s always one more road to explore.”

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