Zermatt, nestled in the mountains of Switzerland, is the perfect place to indulge in outdoor activities during summer. The mountains around the village are particularly suitable for day hikes and the swiss alps are full of surprises.
Read on to discover which are the 5 best hikes in Zermatt, the best routes for seeing the famous Matterhorn, explore what the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise has to offer and how you can enjoy your holiday to the fullest in the stunning and untouched nature of Zermatt. Hiking in Zermatt is truly a once in a lifetime experience.
Zermatt and its surroundings are considered one of the best hiking destinations in Switzerland. There are various possibilities for the best hiking in Zermatt and with all the great options, it's difficult to make a decision. Well, we, as locals and experts for outdoor activities, would like to make your stay as memorable as possible. So we have collected what we experience to be the five best hiking trails for your holidays in Zermatt. Be ready for stunning views and Swiss nature! No matter if you would like to indulge in the wildlife or see alpine lakes. There is something for everyone in Zermatt from easy hikes to advanced.
One of the best hikes: The Matterhorn is your constant companion when hiking in Zermatt (© Pascal Gertschen)
The Five Lakes Trail in Zermatt is certainly the most famous of the day hikes. As the name suggests, the hiking trail leads past five alpine lakes. A constant companion is the view of the Matterhorn, which can be marveled at from various angles. If you are lucky and the weather is good, you can take photos of the Matterhorn reflected in three of the five mountain lakes.
Hiking here is a special highlight for all early risers, because you can marvel at the Matterhorn at sunrise and take impressive photos of the reflection of the mountain in the lake when there is no wind. The Five Lakes Trail is a popular hike for families as it is not a steep trail or includes any challenging parts.
The Five Lakes Trail in Zermatt is certainly the most famous of the day hikes. As the name suggests, the hiking trail leads past five alpine lakes. A constant companion is the view of the Matterhorn, which can be marveled at from various angles. If you are lucky and the weather is good, you can take photos of the Matterhorn reflected in three of the five mountain lakes.
Hiking here is a special highlight for all early risers, because you can marvel at the Matterhorn at sunrise and take impressive photos of the reflection of the mountain in the lake when there is no wind. The Five Lakes Trail is a popular hike for families as it is not a steep trail or includes any challenging parts.
Facts of the Five Lakes Hike:
Length: 9,8 km (5,6 miles)
Duration: 2,5 hours (downhill walk)
Highest point: 2584 meter a.s.l.
Difficulty: middle
Important: Suitable for children aged six and over
Hiking season: June to September
Starting point: Blauherd cable car station
Destination point: Sunnegga
Ticket prices:
One way Zermatt village to Blauherd:
29 Swiss Francs for an adult
Children up to 8.99 years free of charge
From 9 - 15.99 years 50 % of the ticket price or free with the Junior Card or Co-travelcard when accompanied by an adult.
You can view all ticket prices and discounts online and make bookings directly. When booking accommodation with Zermatt Holidays, we will be happy to help you obtain discounted rail passes and tickets.
Take the funicular railway Blauherd to the station Sunnegga. Now you have to switch transportation. From there a chairlift takes you directly to the final station Blauherd. The journey takes around 20 minutes. Here you can start the Five Lakes Hike.
You’ll pass Stellisee (Lake Stelli) as the first stop of the Five Lakes Trail. It will reward your hike with an unrestricted view of the Matterhorn and, when there is no wind, with the perfect reflection of the mountain on the water surface.
The Stellisee offers you a fantastic view of the Matterhorn and its reflection (© Pascal Gertschen)
The route continues through wild nature, past the intact flora and fauna of the Valais.
If you are lucky, you will also see marmots on your hiking route or hear their loud whistles, which they need to communicate with each other from a distance.
Your next stop will be the second of the five alpine lakes Grindjisee (Lake Grindji). Here you can marvel at the Matterhorn behind the larch trees around the lake and their reflection in the lake water. A special feature of Lake Grindji is the unusual flora that has developed due to the presence of raised bogs. For flower lovers and botanists this is a special place where they can discover a variety of rare alpine flowers.
Not only the Matterhorn is worth admiring here, but also the rare flowers (© Michael Portmann)
You continue your hike through the Valais mountains to the next stop, Lake Grünsee. Grünsee means green lake in swiss german and comes from the green water of the lake. Here you will again find an unobstructed view of the mountain panorama, including the Matterhorn. If you have snacks with you, it is a great spot for a break!
We do not recommend swimming in Lake Grünsee, as the water is fed by the surrounding mountain springs and is therefore rather cold. Instead, you can take in the different rock formations of the surrounding mountain massifs.
Your fourth stop is Moosjisee (Lake Moosji). This is the only one of the five lakes on the hike that was not formed naturally, but was created specifically to generate electricity and for snow grooming. As it is fed with water from the Findel Glacier, among other things, its color is milky blue. It gets this special color from the alluvium that is transported with the glacier water. Swimming is strictly forbidden here for safety reasons, but the photos you can take of the lake and the Matterhorn in the background are magical.
Thanks to the turquoise-coloured water, this place seems almost magical (© Thomas Aebischer)
Your last stop is the Leisee. It is a popular destination for families as the lake is not deep and you can swim in it during the summer months. Next to the lake you will find a playground, a barbecue area for preparing your own food and a pavilion for get-togethers. For those who don't want to swim, a raft offers an entertaining way to cross the Leisee. In addition to all the activities, dont forget to relax, as you can also enjoy an unforgettable Alpine panorama and the view of the Matterhorn, including its reflection in the lake. As you can see, taking photos is simply a must here!
The Leisee is particularly popular with families (© Pascal Gertschen)
From the Leisee, you return to the Sunnegga mountain railway station, which is about a 10-minute walk away. Here you can either have something to eat in the Sunnegga mountain restaurant (meat and vegetarian options available) or take the funicular railway back down to the valley. For those who prefer a more unique way back home, there is the option of hiring Kick Bikes. This is a off-road scooter and an adventurous way to ride the 821 meters in altitude from Sunnegga to Zermatt village. In the midst of beautiful nature, through the larch and pine forests and with the perfect photo stops with a view of the mountains of the swiss alps. After this day, we're sure you'll agree that The Five Lakes Trail is one of the best hikes in Zermatt.
Kick Bikes promise fun and a speedy descent back to Zermatt village (© Leander Wenger)
Hiking in Zermatt includes not only beautiful forests and lakes, but allows you to experience high altitude, as in this case up to 2926 meter a.s.l. The Matterhorn Glacier Trail which is part of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise in Zermatt gives you a unique opportunity to experience high-altitude hiking next to a glacier! You hike through the barren mountain landscape, high above the tree line and get impressive views of the swiss alps. The Matterhorn is your constant companion, which you will see again and again from different angles on your hiking trails. You will also have the unique experience of visiting a glacier cave. The Matterhorn Glacier Trail is one of our favorite hikes and one of the most impressive hiking experiences.
Facts of the Matterhorn Glacier Trail:
Matterhorn Glacier Trail distance: 6,6 km (3,7 miles)
Duration: 2 hours (downhill walk)
Highest point: 2928 meter a.s.l.
Difficulty: middle
Hiking season: June to September
Starting point: Trockener Steg
Destination point: Schwarzsee (Black Lake)
Ticket prices:
One way Zermatt village to Trockener Steg:
41 Swiss Francs for an adult
Children up to 8.99 years free of charge
From 9 - 15.99 years 50 % of the ticket price or free with the Junior Card or Co-travelcard when accompanied by an adult.
You can view all ticket prices and discounts online and make bookings directly. When booking accommodation with Zermatt Holidays, we will be happy to help you obtain discounted rail passes and tickets.
Take the cable cars from the village at Matterhorn Express to the cable car station Trockener Steg. From here you can start the downhill hike on the Matterhorn Glacier Trail. It's on of the most popular day hikes in the area. If you want to enjoy a close view of the famous Matterhorn, you can have a seat in the Restaurant ICE Buffet and eat a variety of different foods like Swiss or asian. The restaurant is self served and you can choose your menu at the buffet. It offers vegetarian options as well.
This hike takes you to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (© Michael Portmann)
You start on of the best hikes in Zermatt at the Trockener Steg cable car station and begin the descent. The first highlight of the Matterhorn Glacier Trail is the Theodul Glacier Lake, which offers a unique photo spot, as you can see the reflection of the Matterhorn on the surface when there is no wind.
With Glacier Lake Theodul on your left hand side, you will continue your journey through the almost bizarre environment dominated by rocks.
The Matterhorn Glacier Trail sends you past the barren rocks and numerous smaller glacial lakes, remnants of the glaciers that are retreating more and more, revealing not only rubble, but also artefacts of historical value that can be admired in the Matterhorn Museum in Zermatt village.
After approx. 40 minutes, you will see glacier caves on the left-hand side. Here you can experience climate change at first hand, as the caves are melting more and more. If you decide to go inside and take photos, please be careful, as pieces of ice keep coming loose due to the warming. It's one of the highlight of the Matterhorn Glacier Trail.
You will soon reach the Hörnlibahn mountain station, where a photo stop is well worthwhile to capture the barren landscape in all its splendour. After a short ascent, you will reach Schwarzsee, which is located behind the Schwarzsee mountain station. Here you can visit the small chapel "Maria zum Schnee", which is a popular place of pilgrimage for locals and tourists alike.
Once you reach the Schwarzsee mountain station, The Matterhorn Glacier Trail is over and you can take the cable car back to Zermatt village in comfort.
Even the journey to the starting point promises breathtaking views from the cable cars (© Michael Portmann)
As the name of this hiking trail suggests, you may be lucky enough to spot the wild mountain goats chamois here. Take plenty of time for the hike to spot the animals, some of which are lying in the tall grass and are barely visible.
The chamois trial is one of the top hikes for families and for people interested in wildlife, alpine flowers and alpine meadows.
Facts of the Chamois Trail:
Length: 5,8 km (3,1 miles)
Duration: 1,5 hours (downhill walk)
Highest point: 3103 meter a.s.l.
Difficulty: middle
Hiking season: July to September
Starting point: Rothorn
Destination point: Tuftern
Ticket prices:
One way Zermatt village to Trockener Steg:
42 Swiss Francs for an adult
Children up to 8.99 years free of charge
From 9 - 15.99 years 50 % of the ticket price or free with the Junior Card or Co-travelcard when accompanied by an adult.
You can view all ticket prices and discounts online and make bookings directly. When booking accommodation with Zermatt Holidays, we will be happy to help you obtain discounted rail passes and tickets.
The Sunnegga - Rothorn funicular railway is located on Vispastrasse, opposite the Rothorn bus stop and less than 10 minutes walk from Zermatt railway station. A tunnel leads to the funicular railway, at the beginning of which is the ticket machine for all those who have not already bought their ticket online. From here, the funicular railway takes you to Sunnegga, Blauherd and then to the Rothorn. You can already enjoy the view of the mountains on the way. So don't forget your camera or smartphone!
Once you reach the Rothorn, which is part of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise you can either start your descent or treat yourself to a culinary highlight in the Rothorn restaurant. Of course, the view of the Matterhorn, which you can enjoy from the restaurant's outdoor terrace, is a must. If you are sure that you would like to enjoy the culinary delights in the restaurant before the start, you can book a table here.
The hike takes you through the unspoilt nature above Zermatt. Here you can enjoy the fresh air and the view of the mountains. Here too, the Matterhorn accompanies you on your way. The chamois can also be seen during the day if you take your time and are prepared to look closely. We recommend that you walk the trail at a leisurely pace so as not to miss the wild animals. They often lie in the tall grass or are well camouflaged in front of the rocks. With a bit of luck, you may see whole herds of chamois, including young animals. Even if you can't spot one, the hike is still worthwhile. After all, you will be hiking through an impressive summer landscape that will enchant you with its unique flora and fauna. If you see the world-famous edelweiss, please do not pick the flower as it is a protected species. However, photography is permitted.
You have to spot a chamois yourself. So here is a picture of a cow (© Kurt Müller)
When you reach Tufteren, you have various options. You can either hike to the Blauherd mountain railway station and return to Zermatt village or you can stop off at one of the restaurants nearby. You can take a break in the Tufternalp restaurant or in the Blue Lounge, which is located right next to the Blauherd station. If you want to hike further, you can go as far as the Othmar’s restaurant, which is located below Tufteren and the Blauherd station, and then hike from there back to Zermatt village. It will take you about 50 minutes from the restaurant to Zermatt railway station. It's one of the best hikes in Zermatt and we're sure you'll enjoy the nature and the views of the mountains as much as the locals do.
The hike from Tufteren to Zermatt leads through shady forests (© Pascal Gertschen)
The Gorner Gorge is a special hike in Zermatt, not far from the centre. On hot summer days, the gorge offers a welcome cool-down thanks to the refreshing wind. The development and maintenance of the gorge were and still are associated with a great deal of effort, but it is worth it, as locals and tourists alike are enchanted by the impressive masses of water and the special atmosphere that the Gorner Gorge creates. It's on of the most impressive and best hikes in Zermatt.
Facts:
Gorner Gorge distance: 1 km (0,6 miles)
Duration: 1 hour
Highest point: 1679 meter a.s.l.
Difficulty: easy
Important: Suitable for children
Best months: June to October
Starting point: Zermatt village
Destination point: Restaurant Blatten
Entry fee:
5.50 Swiss Francs for an adult
3 Swiss Francs for children up to 16 years
The Gorner Gorge is about 20 minutes from Zermatt railway station. You can easily walk there and catch a glimpse of the Gornera stream on the way, which rages through the Gorner Gorge and then becomes a tame body of water. It is also an outflow from the Gorner Glacier and joins the Zmuttbach on its way down into the valley, which in turn becomes the Matter Vispa, which then runs through Zermatt.
Follow the signposted path to the entrance of the gorge. Here you pay an entrance fee (see price above) and off you go.
Accompanied by the roar of the water, which can be really loud depending on the weather conditions, you move along the wooden walkways and enjoy the cool air and the masses of water. Past steep rock faces and a special plants that like the humidity. In October, between 3 and 4 o'clock in the afternoon, the special light conditions colour the water turquoise blue.
The Gorner Gorge is an impressive experience during a stay in Zermatt (© Tourismus Zermatt)
After about 20 minutes you reach the end of the Gorner Gorge and can either walk back or continue your excursion to Blatten.
Here, the Blatten restaurant invites you to take a welcome breather on various outdoor terraces and enjoy a delicious meal or a cool drink with a view of the surroundings. During the summer months, the restaurant cooks exclusively with herbs and salad grown in its own garden. The family that runs the restaurant can tell you exciting historical facts about the origins of the Gorner Gorge, as they have been responsible for the maintenance of the footbridges for generations.
As if from another time - the Blatten restaurant in Zermatt (© Michael Portmann)
Just above the Blatten restaurant is the Ricola herb garden. Here you can take a close look at the famous ingredients of the world-famous Swiss herbal sweets. In the show garden, the 17 plant species are waiting to be examined and rubbed between your fingers to savour their fragrance.
From here you can hike leisurely back to Zermatt village, between trees and summery meadows where flowers and grasses grow, past historic old huts that are still used by the locals to store things and always with the Matterhorn as a silent companion. For us it's one of the best hikes in Zermatt.
If you fancy seeing the Gorner Gorge from above and are looking for an adventure, we recommend a hike from Blatten to Furi. At a height of 90 metres, you can marvel at the Gorner Gorge as you cross a 100-metre-long suspension bridge. Better known as the Furi suspension bridge trail. The crossing is safe, but you should be free from fear of hights, otherwise you won't be able to enjoy the view properly.
Once you have successfully crossed the suspension bridge, beautiful larch and Swiss stone pine forests await you. And with a bit of luck, you might even see squirrels in the surrounding trees. With its gentle incline and good hiking trails, it is one of the best hikes in Zermatt for families with children aged 4 and over.
The Matterhorn Trail is a great hike that takes you below the Schwarzsee lake through the mountains and past the foot of the north face of the Matterhorn. On the descent to Furi, you are constantly presented with a different landscape with far-reaching views of the swiss alps. It's definitly one of the best hikes in Zermatt.
Facts:
Length: 7,3 km (4,5 miles)
Duration: 2 hours (downhill walk)
Highest point: 2587 meter a.s.l.
Difficulty: middle
Best months: June to October
Starting point: Schwarzsee (Black lake)
Destination point: Furi
Ticket prices:
One way Zermatt village to Schwarzsee (Black Lake):
36 - 40 Swiss Francs for an adult (depending the season)
Children up to 8.99 years free of charge
From 9 - 15.99 years 50 % of the ticket price or free with the Junior Card or Co-travelcard when accompanied by an adult.
You can view all ticket prices and discounts online and make bookings directly. When booking accommodation with Zermatt Holidays, we will be happy to help you obtain discounted rail passes and tickets.
From Schluhmattstrasse in Zermatt village, take the cable cars via Furi to Schwarzsee station. During the 20-minute ride, you can enjoy the view of the Matterhorn and the surrounding swiss alps.
You start your hike right next to the Schwarzsee cable car station and below the Schwarzsee. The descent takes you through an impressive landscape. So don't forget a sunhat and sun cream. As you approach your destination of Stafelalp, the barren landscape is replaced by beautiful alpine meadows, trees and flowers.
The Stafelalp Restaurant is well worth a visit. After a fire in 2018, it was reopened in 2021 and impresses not only with its unobstructed view of the Matterhorn, at the foot of which it is located, but also with its modern yet cosy interior. Here you can take a break and just be. Surrounded by nature and well catered for. We advise to book a table as it is a popular place.
The Stafelalp restaurant offers a well-earned break with a view of the Matterhorn and delicious food (© Restaurant Stafelalp)
If you are tired from the downhill hike, you can take the cable cars back to Zermatt from the station Furi. If you feel like walking to Zermatt village, you can do this in another 1-hour hike. This hike takes you through shady larch and Swiss stone pine forests and sunny sections. You may spot native animals such as squirrels or birds. Usually there arent many people on the path and you can enjoy the peace and quiet to the full.
Let your gaze wander into the trees again and again to spot squirrels (© Pascal Gertschen)
Zermatt is not only worth a visit in winter. It's also worth visiting the mountain village in summer and completing the best hikes in Zermatt. Or at least a few of them, because the possibilities and hiking trails are so numerous that they would take more than one summer to complete. In addition to the unspoilt nature and mountain scenery, there are many other things that make a visit worthwhile. Seeing ibex, chamois, marmots and squirrels in the wild, for example. Or crossing the suspension bridge that connects two valleys. We wish you a great hiking experience in Zermatt!
If you have any questions regarding this article or our holiday rentals please contact us via +41 27 968 11 30 or email us info@zermattholidays.com
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