The Route
7 km · 2.5–4 hours · One dam crossing · Two exit options
The complete guide to Zurich's most beloved summer tradition — a 7 km drift along the Limmat River from Wipkingerpark to Dietikon.
Limmat Float (Limmat Böötle) is one of Zurich's most beloved summer traditions — a refreshing, laid-back experience that blends city vibes with nature. Locals and visitors alike grab their inflatable rings, dry bags, and sunscreen, then hop into the cool, clear waters of the Limmat.
The float begins upstream near Wipkingerpark and drifts gently through green landscapes, old stone bridges, and riverside hangouts, offering a peaceful yet scenic journey. You'll pass by spots where people sunbathe, grill, or dive from bridges. It's the ultimate urban adventure meets nature moment — super chill, low-effort, and uniquely Swiss.
The whole route covers about 7 km and takes between 2.5 and 4 hours depending on the water current and how many stops you make. The current does most of the work — no paddling required!
7 km · 2.5–4 hours · One dam crossing · Two exit options
Your adventure begins at Wipkingerpark in Zurich District 10 — a popular leisure spot right on the Limmat riverbank. This is where you pick up your Smile Swim equipment (already inflated and ready to go) and enter the water.
The park is easily accessible: tram lines 13 and 14 stop nearby, and Wipkingen S-Bahn station is just a short walk away. There's a large lawn, cafés and restaurants in the area, and the river access is clear and well-signed.
Arrive a little early to pump up, get set up comfortably, and read the river signs before entering. The current picks up quickly once you're in!
About twenty minutes into the float you will encounter a dam (Höngger Wehr) that must be crossed on foot. Don't worry — it is only about a 50–150 metre walk along a clearly marked path. Bright arrows guide you so you won't miss the route.
After crossing, you re-enter the river from a dedicated platform and continue your journey downstream. This is one of the highlights of the float — a short break to stretch your legs before the best section of the river begins.
Do not attempt to float over or around the dam. Exit the water on the LEFT bank when you see the signs — they are visible from at least 2 km in advance. After the dam, the river deepens and the current becomes smoother and more enjoyable.
From the dam, the float continues smoothly to the official last recommended stop near Glanzenberg Station. The exit is clearly marked — you must exit the river on the left/west bank when you see the signs. There is another large dam just after this point which cannot be passed.
Glanzenberg is a fantastic place to end your day on the water. There's a large grassy area to deflate your equipment, relax, and dry off before catching the train home.
Glanzenberg has a popular BBQ/Grillstelle area — bring your own supplies and make an afternoon of it after the float. A Swiss classic combo: Limmat float + riverside grill.
For those seeking a longer float, you can continue downstream past Glanzenberg to Dietikon Station. This adds an extra 30–60 minutes to your journey and is a scenic stretch of river.
Keep in mind that Dietikon is mainly a practical endpoint — there is minimal infrastructure at the exit point itself. It's a small area to take your equipment out of the water and pack up. The Dietikon train station is a short walk away and connects you back to Zurich in about 20–30 minutes.
At Dietikon, exit the river on the LEFT (west) side. There is a dam and bridge just after the exit that makes the river impassable. The exit point is signed but plan ahead — don't miss it.
After the float, return by public transport and bring the equipment back to the Smile Swim pickup point at Wipkingerpark.
Preparation makes all the difference. Here's the Smile Swim recommended packing list for a perfect Limmat float.
Rent your inflatable ring, boat or unicorn float from Smile Swim. Easy pickup at Wipkingerpark — we'll have everything ready for you.
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