Matterhorn Glacier Trail

Easily accessible from Zermatt, the Matterhorn Glacier Trail is among the region’s most spectacular hikes. It combines panoramic views of the Matterhorn with sweeping glaciers, alpine lakes, and the chance to spot wild chamois.

I have changed the official trail so that we can start and end at the same station. This way, we can save some money on the gondola tickets. This is also adding another 2 hours to the hike (11.7 km instead of 6.6 km and about 400 meters of elevation gain).

The hike starts at the Schwarzsee station, which is also the name of the first lake you will see. For the first part of the hike, we will walk towards the Trockener Steg. You can admire the view of the Gorner Glacier and the Matterhorn. In this area, I was able to spot some chamois.

Once we reach the Trockener Steg, we can continue the hike towards the Theodulgletschersee. Take a moment to take a photo of the lake with the Matterhorn in the background. Then, we walk towards the Furggsee. We pass by small lakes in a spectacular landscape of rocks, mountains, and glaciers.

The last part of the hike consists of a descent to the Schwarzsee station. This part is a bit more tricky when it comes to the trail itself. The hike is done once you reach the Schwarzsee station.

Logistics

First, you need to travel to Transport icon Zermatt train station. Then you need to walk to the Zermatt, Matterhorn Talstation station. Take the lift up to the Zermatt Schwarzsee station.