Best Hiking Trails in Europe for Spring 2025

As winter fades and nature awakens, spring 2025 is the perfect time to lace up your hiking boots and explore hiking trails in Europe. With mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds, this season offers an unforgettable experience for every type of hiker. From Austria’s alpine meadows and Switzerland’s postcard-perfect peaks to Norway’s dramatic fjords, Italy’s stunning Dolomites, and Scotland’s rugged highlands, spring transforms these landscapes into a hiker’s paradise. Whether you crave a challenging mountain trek, a scenic lakeside stroll, or a coastal cliffside adventure, Europe has a trail for you.

With this blog, we’ll take you through some of the countries which has best hiking trails in Europe , ensuring your spring 2025 adventure is nothing short of spectacular.

Austria

Austria presents its breathtaking alpine scenery during spring that creates an ideal hiking environment for travelers. The country provides adventure seekers with spectacular snow-capped summits combined with rolling grasslands along with transcendent lakes. Three trails in spring 2025 should be at the top of your list for destination exploration.

1. The Eagle Walk, Tyrol
   Austria features the Eagle Walk as its top recognized long-distance hiking route which traverses 413 kilometers. During spring one can tackle specific areas of the Eagle Walk in the Lechtal Alps along with Karwendel Nature Park because the mountains’ vertical aspect is highlighted by colorful wildflowers. This hiking trail presents moderate-to-difficult terrain challenges but offers stunning views of valleys in addition to peaceful alpine lake sights.
   
2. Zillertal Alps High Trail
   An extended trek crosses the magnificent Zillertal Alps with its dramatic mountain ridges along with its glacial streams. Spring delivers the most optimal season for viewership of its expansive meadows while its rhododendrons reach peak bloom. The Berliner Hütte to Friesenberghaus trail is suitable for shorter hikes as it showcases picturesque perspectives while demanding minimal trekking background.
   
3. Schafberg Trail, Salzkammergut
   Those seeking a semi-challenging hike can reach an esteemed Austrian lake vista through the Schafberg Trail. During springtime when skies are clear and every shrub turns green the hike from St. Wolfgang to Schafbergspitze becomes exceptionally beautiful. From the summit visitors can see breathtaking views of Lake Wolfgangsee and more beyond it.

Switzerland

Switzerland’s hiking trails are world-famous for their jaw-dropping alpine views, charming villages, and pristine glacial lakes. Spring 2025 is the perfect time to explore lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and snow-dusted peaks, all without the summer crowds. Here are three must-hike trails this season.

1. The Five Lakes Walk, Zermatt
   This easy-to-moderate 9.8 km trail is one of the most picturesque hikes in Zermatt, offering incredible reflection views of the Matterhorn in its five crystal-clear lakes. Spring is ideal, as the melting snow enhances the beauty of Stellisee, Grindjisee, and Leisee, creating a perfect mirror effect of Switzerland’s most iconic peak. The well-marked path makes it perfect for families and casual hikers.
   
2. Lauterbrunnen Valley to Mürren
   Often called the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls,” Lauterbrunnen Valley is a spring paradise. The hike to Mürren is a gentle yet scenic trail passing meadows filled with wildflowers, dramatic waterfalls, and traditional Swiss chalets. Spring’s mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make it the perfect time to experience this fairy-tale setting.
   
3. Oeschinensee Panorama Hike
   For a short but breathtaking adventure, the Oeschinensee Panorama Hike leads to one of Switzerland’s most stunning glacial lakes. In spring, the lake’s deep turquoise waters contrast beautifully against the snow-capped peaks, offering postcard-worthy views. The cable car from Kandersteg makes it accessible to all hikers.

Scotland

Scotland welcomes hikers because of its untamed landscapes and dramatic coastal cliffs and mystical highlands which act as dream destinations. Spring transforms Scottish hills into a natural masterpiece with blooming heather and reduced crowds so hikers can enjoy the most stunning hiking paths. Travelers who choose either to traverse island wilderness or hike historic mountain routes will create memories they will never forget on Scotland’s paths.

1. The Quiraing, Isle of Skye
   The Quiraing stands among Scotland’s most exceptional scenic attractions because it features majestic cliffs and rolling hills that provide spectacular ocean panorama views. Tourists find this loop hike 7-kilometers long particularly enchanting because mist hangs above cliffs and sunshine lights up the moors to create a mystical scene during springtime. Spring provides the prettiest climate alongside attractive colors that positions this period as Scotland’s premium travel window.
   
2. West Highland Way (Best Spring Sections)
   Scotland’s most famous long-distance trail, the West Highland Way (154 km), offers everything from tranquil lochs to dramatic mountain passes. For a shorter spring trek, try the Loch Lomond to Crianlarich section, where wildflowers bloom along the shores. Spring hikers should prepare for unpredictable weather, so layering up and carrying waterproof gear is essential.
   
3. The Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye
   Springtime brings perfect conditions for observing the iconic beauty of Scotland’s Old Man of Storr trail during both sunrise and sunset. The pathway spans 4.5 kilometers through spectacular scenery which overlooks Skye’s rough coastal region. The spring season brings golden sunlight combined with colorful green landscapes that provide perfect pictures.

These locations present the best hiking trails in Europe which has pleasant climate and colorful landscapes and low visitor numbers during this time period.

Having your Europe tour package planned in advance ensures a smooth experience by checking all permits and making early accommodations and packing basic items including layers of clothing together with waterproof products along with durable hiking boots. The Five Lakes Walk and Scotland’s Old Man of Storr and Norway’s Trolltunga all offer enchanting views and dramatic outdoor adventures during spring trips to Switzerland and Scotland and Norway. Book your Europe trip with Pickyourtrail to experience the continent at its best!