The best walks and hikes around Zermatt

Zermatt offers an extensive network of over 240 hiking trails, catering to a wide range of abilities. You'll find everything from leisurely walks to challenging high-altitude routes, all set against the stunning alpine backdrop.

Yes, Zermatt has numerous easy and family-friendly trails. The region's well-maintained paths and accessible mountain transport make it ideal for all ages. Many trails, like sections of the 5 Lakes Trail, are suitable for families, offering gentle gradients and stunning views of the Matterhorn and alpine lakes.

For iconic Matterhorn reflections, the View of the Matterhorn – 5 Lakes Trail is highly recommended. This route connects five beautiful lakes, including Stellisee and Riffelsee, which are famous for their mirror-like reflections of the peak. Another excellent option is the Riffelsee – View of the Matterhorn loop from Riffelberg.

Absolutely. Zermatt is home to impressive glaciers, and some trails offer close-up views. The Matterhorn Glacier Trail allows hikers to get close to the glacier and observe its geological features. The Gorner Glacier, the second-highest in the Alps, is also visible from the Gornergrat area.

Yes, many trails in Zermatt are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point, often with convenient access to mountain transport. A popular example is the View of the Matterhorn – 5 Lakes Trail loop from Sunnegga Paradise, which offers a full circuit of the scenic lakes.

While hiking in Zermatt, you have a good chance of spotting various alpine wildlife. Keep an eye out for marmots, chamois, deer, and even ibex, particularly in areas like Sunnegga and Blauherd. The diverse alpine meadows and forests provide a rich habitat for these animals.

Beyond the Matterhorn, Zermatt offers many natural wonders. You can explore the dramatic Busserailles Caves and Waterfall, or visit the Riffelsee for stunning reflections. The Gorner Gorge, with its elevated wooden walkways, provides a unique geological experience. For high-altitude views, consider the Gornergrat or Klein Matterhorn viewpoints.

Zermatt is car-free, so public transport is essential and highly efficient. Mountain railways, cable cars, and funiculars provide excellent access to various trailheads, making it easy to reach starting points like Sunnegga, Gornergrat, or Klein Matterhorn for your hikes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3,500 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unparalleled panoramic views of the Matterhorn and other 4,000-meter peaks, the pristine alpine lakes, and the well-maintained, diverse trail network suitable for all levels.

Yes, Zermatt offers trails that delve into the region's history and culture. For instance, the Cultural Trail (No. 36) provides insights into the local heritage and traditional alpine life as you hike through picturesque landscapes.

Many of Zermatt's popular hiking routes pass by mountain huts, restaurants, or cafes, especially those accessible by mountain transport. This allows hikers to enjoy refreshments or a meal with spectacular views. It's common to find such amenities along trails leading from or to major viewpoints like Gornergrat or Sunnegga.

The best time for hiking in Zermatt is generally from late spring (June) to early autumn (October). During these months, the trails are mostly snow-free, alpine flowers are in bloom, and the weather is typically stable. Some higher-altitude trails might still have snow earlier in the season, so always check conditions.