Loorenkopf tower

Loorenkopf Tower (Loorenkopfturm) is a wooden lookout in the forest on the Adlisberg, on the eastern edge of Zürich just north of the Witikon district. The city owns it and anyone can climb it, which makes it one of the best viewpoints around the Zürichberg.

What is the Loorenkopf tower?

The tower dates from 1954. The Verschönerungsverein Zürich, a local beautification society, had lobbied for it for years. A small competition between four building firms picked the winner, Dangel & Co. of Zürich. It is a freestanding timber lattice, roughly 33 metres tall, with the viewing platform at about 30 metres. Reaching the top means climbing 153 steps.

What can you see from the top?

The structure rises above the treetops, so the outlook is open in many directions. To the east you look across the Greifensee area as far as the Säntis; to the south the line-up runs from the Glarus Alps to the Rigi and Pilatus. On a clear day the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau also appear. Closer in lie the city, Lake Zürich and the surrounding hills.

How do you get to Loorenkopf?

The tower stands in woodland, so you finish on foot. A common approach starts at the Dolder sports grounds and takes around 40 minutes, following Loorenkopfturm signs. Many visitors pair it with a ride on the Dolderbahn, while others start in Witikon or Burgwies. The tower is also a highlight of the Loorenkopf-Weg trail, which begins in Fällanden and ends at Zürich Zoo after a short climb to the lookout.

When should you visit?

Pick a day with good visibility, ideally in settled, clear weather, since that decides whether the Alps show up. The surrounding forest makes a pleasant walk in every season, but it is windier on the platform than on the ground, so bring an extra layer.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is the Loorenkopf tower? About 33 metres, with the platform at roughly 30 metres.

How many steps are there? 153 steps lead to the upper platform.

Can you see the Alps from here? Yes. In good visibility you can pick out the Säntis, the Glarus Alps, the Rigi and Pilatus, and even the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Do you have to pay to climb it? The tower is city property and open to the public. Check the City of Zürich website for current access rules before you go.