A dense network of 60,000 footpaths covers the country. Hiking is popular, especially among the German speaking Swiss, and among older people. According to a poll published in 2001 more than 60% of the Swiss had been for at least one hike in the previous year.

The footpaths are well signposted and well-kept. The yellow signs are everywhere, with information about destinations or the name of the route, and often also with walking times, distances and altitudes.

There are also a number of learning trails, covering a wide range of subjects, with information boards every so often along the way.