Majestic Alpine Views at Matterhorn Glacier Trail

A superb hike that we highly recommend, starting from Schwarzee and ending at Gandegghutte. Please note: sneakers are not recommended; appropriate footwear is essential.

Unreal, I couldn't imagine that there could be such colors, multicolored rocks and everything around. Superb trail if you get here. Don't miss it, you're missing something you've never seen before!

Beautiful hike with about 300m of ascent and 650m or so of descent (you can also hike the opposite direction, which would start with a solid uphill climb, but may end up being easier on the knees). Went in August 2026 and although sunny, it was windy and quite chilly at the top. Ensure you are prepared with warm layers and a decent pair of shoes/boots. It is quite rocky and there are a few rock scramble sections where it would be quite slippery if wet. Trail markers are easy to spot. It would be suitable for older children (ex 5-6 years+) depending on their level of independence and quality of footwear! It will take you anywhere from 1h45-3h depending on how fast you go and how many times you stop for photos!

This is a moderately challenging hiking trail between Trockener Steg (2939m) and Schwarzsee (2583m) that we completed during a recent visit to Zermatt. During our July visit we had favourable weather conditions and clear skies. Found the trail condition to be very good, easy to follow and views of The Matterhorn and surrounding landscape to be remarkable throughout. On the day, we went straight to The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise first thing in the morning, spending around 75 minutes there. We then began our return, exiting the cable car at Trockener Steg where we made the mostly downward hike to Schwarzsee, where we boarded gondola back down to Zermatt. The trail is around 6.5 km and more or less a gradual descent if you hike in the direction of Trockener Steg to Schwarzsee. Allow 2-4 hours depending on your walking condition and how many rest/photo stops you might end making. Best to have proper and sufficient footwear, clothing, rain jacket, sunscreen and hat on the day. We found walking sticks quite useful but not essential for this trek. There are no facilities along the way so also best to have water, any snacks you might require and to use the toilets at Trockener Steg before setting off. In addition to excellent views of The Matterhorn, you will encounter glacier and snow melt lakes, dramatic moon-like moraine fields and loads of interesting landscape and views into the distance throughout. As such, having a lightweight pair of binoculars can come in handy during your hike.

Beautiful reflection