Zermatt offers a plethora of hiking trails that cater to a range of fitness levels and preferences. The trails provide opportunities to explore the stunning Alpine scenery, including panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. Here are some popular hiking trails in and around Zermatt:
- Five Lakes Walk:
- This is a relatively easy and family-friendly trail that takes you to five beautiful mountain lakes with reflections of the Matterhorn. The hike starts at Sunnegga and offers fantastic views throughout.
- Gornergrat Railway Trail:
- Starting from Zermatt, this trail follows the route of the Gornergrat Railway, providing excellent views of the Matterhorn, glaciers, and surrounding peaks. You can choose to hike the entire way or take the train back down.
- Gorner Gorge Trail:
- This trail takes you through the Gorner Gorge, a narrow and dramatic gorge carved by the Gornera River. Wooden walkways and bridges provide an exciting experience as you explore the power of the river.
- Hörnli Hut Trail:
- For more experienced hikers, the trail to the Hörnli Hut is the starting point for climbers attempting to summit the Matterhorn. The hike offers impressive views of the iconic peak.
- Schwarzsee (Black Lake) Trail:
- This trail leads to Schwarzsee, situated beneath the Hörnli Ridge of the Matterhorn. The lake reflects the towering mountain, creating a picturesque setting. It’s also a starting point for those climbing the Matterhorn.
- Schönbiel Hut Trail:
- Starting from Zermatt, this trail takes you to the Schönbiel Hut, offering panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the Zmutt Glacier. It’s a moderate hike with stunning alpine scenery.
- Europaweg Trail:
- The Europaweg Trail is a long-distance hiking route that connects Zermatt to Grächen. It’s known for its suspension bridge, the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge, which is one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world.
- Gourmet Trail:
- This unique trail combines hiking with culinary delights. The Gourmet Trail takes you to several mountain restaurants, allowing you to enjoy delicious Swiss cuisine while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
- Trift Valley Trail:
- Starting at Zermatt, this trail takes you through the Trift Valley, offering views of glaciers and alpine landscapes. It’s a quieter trail compared to some of the more popular routes.
- Zmutt Valley Trail:
- This trail leads to the traditional Swiss mountain village of Zmutt. It’s a scenic hike with views of the Matterhorn and a glimpse into the traditional alpine way of life.
Before embarking on any hiking trail, it’s essential to check trail conditions, weather forecasts, and ensure you have the appropriate gear. Additionally, some trails may have varying difficulty levels, so choose one that suits your fitness and experience.