Best Hikes in Zermatt

Location: Valais

Zermatt Hiking Trails

View of the Matterhorn from the Holbalm Plateau

Hohbalm

Distance: 7.6 - 12.3 miles (Loop)

Our favorite hike in Zermatt features magical views of the majestic Matterhorn and stunning panoramas of the 4,000-meter peaks towering above the Zermatt area.

Close-up of the Weisshorn, Bishorn and Brunegghorn

Gruben to Jungen via Augstbord Pass

Distance: 8.2 miles (One Way)

One of my favorite hikes in the Valais is the steep, scenic climb over Augstbord Pass leading to an overlook with stunning, panoramic views of the Bernese Alps and the high peaks towering above the Mattertal from Stalden to Zermatt.

View of the peaks across the Saas Fee valley

Grachen to Saas Fee (Hohenweg Saas Fee)

Distance: 10.8 miles (One Way)

The Saas Fee Hohenweg is one of the classic hikes in the Valais. The challenging trail follows a high route along the west side of the Saastal with stunning, nonstop views of the glacier-clad peaks towering above the Saas Valley and the Bernese Alps to the north.

View of the head of the Zmutt Valley on the climb to Schonbielhutte

Schonbielhutte (Schonbiel Hut)

Distance: 13.7 miles (Round Trip)

Two great trails with terrific views of the Matterhorn are combined to create a fantastic hike to Schonbiel Hut, sitting atop a scenic overlook at the head of the Zmutt Valley.

Monte Rosa, Lyskamm, Castor and Pollux from the Gornergrat viewpoint

Gornergrat Loop

Distance: 7.0 - 8.5 miles (Loop)

Great views accompany almost every step of this hike leading to Gornergrat, a glorious overlook with panoramic views of 20 peaks over 13,000-ft. (4,000-meters) high.

Looking up at the Matterhorn from the spot just above the hut

Hornlihutte (Hornli Hut)

Distance: 5.6 - 10.5 miles (Round Trip)

The short, steep hike to Hornlihutte offers a unique, up-close opportunity to experience the iconic Matterhorn from the base of the most popular climber’s route to the summit.

The Matterhorn

Matterhorn Glacier Trail

Distance: 4.1 miles (One Way)

Stunning, panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the summits rimming the Zermatt area are the highlights of this scenic hike through the stark landscape left by retreating glaciers. En route pass glacial lakes, colorful rock outcroppings and learn about the local geology.

The north face of the Matterhorn and the Matterhorn Glacier

Schwarzsee to Zermatt

Distance: 5.6 - 7.3 miles (One Way)

The Matterhorn is the star of the show on this scenic hike starting at Schwarzsee, a popular viewpoint atop the Matterhorn Plateau. Competing for your attention are splendid views of the high peaks rimming the Zmutt valley along with more distance views of the Findel and Monte Rosa areas.

The Matterhorn and Dent Blanche at the head of the Zmutt Valley

Oberrothorn

Distance: 3.8 - 9.1 miles (Round Trip)

The second highest hiking trail in Switzerland leads to the summit of the Oberrothorn (11,200-ft.) with splendid, 360-degree views of 38 peaks over 13,000-ft. (4,000-meters).

Lower Gorner Valley

Gorner Gletschertor and Gletschergarten

Distance: 3.8 - 5.9 miles (One Way)

This trail ascends through larch forests and rocky meadows in the lower Gorner Valley, exploring the rugged terrain left by the receding Gorner Glacier. Information boards show the glacier’s progress over time and provide insights on the area’s geology.

Approaching the Gorner Glacier Viewpoint

Gorner Glacier Viewpoint

Distance: 7.8 - 8.6 miles (Round Trip)

This delightful hike leads to an overlook with front row seats to the amazing spectacle of massive rivers of ice flowing down the flanks of 4,000-meter peaks, joining with the Gorner Glacier to form the second largest glacial system in the Alps.

View from the meadows just beyond the Hotel du Trift

Trift

Distance: 4.5 miles (Round Trip)

This lovely hike climbs steeply up the beautiful Trift Gorge beside a cascading stream, traveling through lovely wildflower-filled meadows to the basin at head of the gorge surrounded by a gorgeous cirque of rugged peaks adorn with glaciers.

Close-up of the Matterhorn

Zmutt Loop

Distance: 5.8 miles (Loop)

Pretty meadows, larch forests and nice views of the Matterhorn make this trail a good option for families and hikers looking for a pleasant half day walk.

View of the Findel glacier from the top of the moraine

Findel Glacier Viewpoint

Distance: 5.4 - 8.3 miles (Round Trip)

This moderately-easy trail leads to a peaceful overlook with wonderful views of the Findel Glacier flowing down the slopes of the Cima di Jazzi. Along the way hikers enjoy splendid views of the Matterhorn.

View Hikes by Area:
ValaisZermattSaas FeeGrubenZinalLes HauderesArolla

Best Hiking in Switzerland in the Valais, Bernese Alps, the Engadine and Davos

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