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About this place
Hochwacht observation tower (Albishochwacht) crowns the Albis ridge above Langnau am Albis in the canton of Zürich. The wooden tower, roughly 33 to 35 metres tall, gives a panorama over the city of Zürich, the lake and the Alps. It sits inside Wildnispark Zürich Sihlwald.
What can you see from the tower?
About 150 steps lead to a roofed viewing deck. On a clear day the view takes in Zürich, Lake Zürich, Lake Zug, and farther off Rigi, Pilatus and the Tödi massif. To the north you can pick out the neighbouring ridge with Uetliberg. The tower is open at all hours, so a sunrise climb is possible.
What is the history of the site?
"Hochwacht" means a lookout post. Between 1624 and 1798, hilltop stations of this kind formed part of Zürich's alarm network, warning of danger with fire and smoke. The present timber tower dates from 1978, according to one source, and serves hikers only.
How do you get there?
The usual approach starts at the Albispass saddle, about 30 minutes on foot from the tower. The forest path has many steps and roots near Schweikhof, so it is not suitable for pushchairs. From the tower you can follow the ridge on to Albishorn, where a restaurant with a panoramic terrace stands, around 35 minutes from the pass.
A popular loop links Albispass, Hochwacht, Bürglen and Albishorn before descending to the Sihl valley: about 2 hours 25 minutes and 7.7 km. Another route runs from Uetliberg via Felsenegg and Buchenegg to Albispass, about 10.6 km and close to 3 hours, and is walkable all year.
When should you go?
Views are best on days with crisp air, often in autumn and winter when the lake is free of haze. In summer, aim for morning or evening. In winter the forest can be slippery and the tower stairs icy, so wear sturdy boots.
Where can you eat?
Restaurant Albishorn (about 909 m above sea level) and inns near Albispass are on the route. Check opening times beforehand, as they vary by season.
Who is it for?
The walk is short and easy, ideal for families with children who enjoy climbing stairs. Anyone uneasy with heights may find the open-frame structure daunting. The pass also has a playground as part of the Wildnispark offer.
Frequently asked questions
Does it cost anything to climb the tower?
The sources mention no fee, and the tower is accessible around the clock.
How long is the walk from Albispass?
About 30 minutes at a relaxed pace, with plenty of steps along the way.
Can you reach it with a pushchair?
No. The stretch between Hochwacht and Schweikhof has many stairs and tree roots.
What else is nearby?
The Albishorn summit and its restaurant, the Bürglen viewpoint, and Uetliberg on the northern side of the ridge.
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