Hi, musicskybird, I think your question is quite typical, and might be useful for other friends.so I decide to publish the answer. hope more friends can see it.
The time plan is always a problem for those who have not a lot time for Switzerland. for example, I planned to go to south on 08.08.2006. from Lachen, it needs at least 1 day, from early morning till late evening. so I have been to www.sbb.ch, checked the time plan of the train. here is my plan for the whole day on 08.08.2006:
Lachen 7:06am--Bellinzona10:12am, 2 hours for stay in Bellinzona
Bellinzona12:40am--Locarno13:06pm, 4 hours for stay in Locarno
Locarno17:12pm(bus 31)--Ascona 17:27pm, 2 hours for stay in Ascona
Ascona 19:20pm--Lachen23:19pm
In SBB's timeplan, you will get more detailed statement about the stations for transfer.
To save time, you can buy the sandwish in the supermarkt the day before or just at the street whereever you see one, and try to eat your meal and go to WC in the train.
you can also take bus directly to the spot or city center.
use mapsearch to locate your bus stops.