Wildpark Heitern

Wildpark Heitern is a free deer park on the Heitern hill in Zofingen, in the Swiss canton of Aargau. Locals simply call it the "Hirschpark", the deer park. It is a calm destination for a short family outing or a break during a walk around town.

What is Wildpark Heitern?

The park covers about 3.7 hectares and is divided into seven enclosures. It grew out of a private park opened in 1897, and 1 July 1897 is often given as the opening date. Today it is a public attraction where you can watch animals up close in a wooded setting rather than a classic zoo.

Which animals can you see?

The park is home to red deer, fallow deer, axis deer and sika deer. Wild boar and mouflon live in two of the seven enclosures. That makes it easy to compare several hoofed species in one place, each with its own build, colouring and behaviour. For children it is a simple nature lesson, and for adults a chance to watch wildlife at an unhurried pace.

When is the best time to visit?

The park is open all year and entry is free. Every season has its charm. In spring, with a little luck, you may spot sows with piglets. In autumn, during the rut, the park gets noticeably livelier, as you can hear the stags roar. In winter the surroundings are quiet and suit a short walk.

Please do not feed the animals. Visitors are asked to refrain, as is usual in such places, since the wrong food harms hoofed animals.

What is nearby?

Right next to the park lies the Heiternplatz, a former military drill ground shaded by lime trees. It offers a view over the town and is now used for children's festivals and open-air concerts. Combining a visit to the animals with a stroll across the square easily turns into a half-day outing.

Zofingen is a good base for exploring northern Switzerland. The old town and nearby paths can be combined with a visit to the park, and everything fits into a single day.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee for Wildpark Heitern? No, entry is free.

Is the park open all year? Yes, according to available information you can visit it throughout the year. Opening hours vary between sources, so it is worth checking before you go.

Which animals live here? Red deer, fallow deer, axis deer, sika deer, wild boar and mouflon.

When is the best time to come? In spring to see young wild boar, and in autumn during the deer rut.

May I feed the animals? No, visitors are asked not to.

Who is the place for? Families with children, walkers and nature lovers looking for a quiet, free attraction in Aargau.