- End of June – middle of September
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Zermatt, where your trekking adventure begins and ends. This unique experience takes you far from the hustle and bustle of civilization, guiding you from cozy hut to cozy hut along a stunning route. As you hike, you’ll be surrounded by rare alpine flowers and awe-inspiring mountain giants, including the iconic Matterhorn, with its magnificent and formidable north wall looming in the distance.
Each day of your trek culminates in the warm embrace of a comfortable mountain hut, where friendly hosts await to welcome you. These knowledgeable locals are passionate about the majestic mountain world surrounding Zermatt and are eager to share their captivating stories and insights.
Over the course of five days, immerse yourself in the diverse beauty and fascinating facets of Zermatt’s mountain paradise. If you’re an experienced hiker in good physical shape, this trekking tour promises an enriching experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
Join us for an adventure that celebrates the splendor of the Swiss Alps for a self guided or guided trek!
- Multi-day hut-to-hut trek around the Matterhorn
- Stunning glacier and mountain panoramas
- Overnight stays in traditional Swiss mountain huts
- Visit the famous Hörnli Hut at 3,260 m
- Views of the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, Breithorn, and Gorner Glacier
- Ideal for experienced hikers seeking a true alpine adventure
- 5 hiking days
- 49km, + 3225m, – 3216m
Hiking Itinerary Matterhorn Trek Switzerland
Arrival Day to Zermatt
Make your way to the car-free village of Zermatt, Switzerland reachable by the Matterhorn Express train.
- Night at a Hotel in Zermatt
Day 1: Zermatt to Trift mountain guesthouse
Your adventure begins in the charming car-free village of Zermatt.
Follow mountain trails ascending through forests and alpine pastures to the historic Trift Mountain Inn.
As you gain altitude, the first impressive views of the surrounding peaks unfold. Upon arrival, enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere and a traditional Swiss dinner while preparing for the days ahead.
- Difference in altitude: + 909 m
- Distance: 5.8 km
Day 2: Trift mountain guesthouse to Schönbielhütte
Today’s route traverses some of the most beautiful scenery in the Zermatt region. Climb toward the panoramic viewpoints of Höhbalmen and Hohliecht before crossing rugged alpine terrain overlooking the impressive Zmutt Glacier.
Throughout the day, the Matterhorn dominates the skyline, revealing its wild and dramatic character. The trail eventually leads to the beautifully situated Schönbiel Hut, perched high above the glacier.
- Difference in altitude: +780 m, – 430 m
- Distance: 11.3 km
Day 3: Schönbiel hut to Hörnli hut
A true highlight of the trek awaits. Following alpine trails beneath the towering north face of the Matterhorn, you’ll make your way to the famous Hörnli Hut at 3,260 meters.
This legendary mountain refuge serves as the starting point for climbers attempting the Matterhorn summit. The setting is unforgettable, with breathtaking views of glaciers, ridges, and some of the highest peaks in the Alps.
For those who rise early, the sight of climbers’ headlamps ascending the Hörnli Ridge before dawn is a memorable spectacle.
- Difference in altitude: + 1105 m, – 540 m
- Distance: 13.2 km
Day 4: Hörnli hut to Gandegg hut
Continue your journey along the famous Matterhorn Glacier Trail, walking beneath the mountain’s eastern face. The route offers exceptional views over the vast Gorner Glacier, the Monte Rosa massif, and the Breithorn.
The landscape becomes increasingly high alpine, with glaciers and rocky peaks surrounding you on all sides. Your destination is the historic Gandegg Hut, located near the Theodul Glacier and offering one of the most spectacular panoramic settings in the region.
- Difference in altitude: + 430 m, – 660 m
- Distance: 9 km
Day 5: Gandegg hut to Zermatt
After a final breakfast in the mountains, begin your descent back to Zermatt. The trail winds through changing alpine landscapes, gradually returning to green meadows and forests.
Arrive in Zermatt in the afternoon, where the journey comes full circle beneath the unmistakable silhouette of the Matterhorn. A perfect opportunity to celebrate the completion of an unforgettable Alpine trekking adventure.
- Difference in altitude: – 1415 m (lift assistance available)
- Distance: 8.9 km
Map for Matterhorn Trek Switzerland:
Who is this trek for?
The Matterhorn Trek is designed for experienced hikers with good fitness and sure-footedness. The route includes steep ascents, high-altitude terrain, and mountain paths that require confidence in alpine environments. Proper preparation and suitable hiking equipment are essential.
Where We Stay
One of the highlights of the Matterhorn Trek is the opportunity to spend each night in authentic Swiss mountain huts, surrounded by some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in Europe. Far from the comforts of the valley, these mountain refuges offer a unique experience that is an essential part of any true Alpine adventure.
Nestled high in the mountains, each hut combines warm hospitality with breathtaking surroundings. After a rewarding day on the trail, you’ll enjoy hearty mountain cuisine, stunning sunset views, and the camaraderie of fellow hikers and mountaineers. While the facilities are simple and designed to respect the remote mountain environment, the atmosphere is unforgettable.
Trift Mountain Inn
Your first night is spent at Trift Mountain Inn, a brand new rebuilt mountain lodge set above Zermatt in a peaceful alpine setting. Surrounded by forests, meadows, and impressive mountain peaks, it is the perfect place to ease into the trek and enjoy your first evening in the Swiss Alps.
Schönbiel Hut
Perched above the Zmutt Glacier, Schönbiel Hut offers one of the most iconic viewpoints in the region. With the Matterhorn rising dramatically above the surrounding landscape, this remote refuge provides an authentic mountain experience in a truly spectacular location.
Hörnli Hut
Few mountain huts in the world are as famous as Hörnli Hut. Located at 3,260 metres on the northeast ridge of the Matterhorn, it serves as the starting point for climbers attempting the summit. Spending a night here is a unique experience, surrounded by the history, atmosphere, and grandeur of one of the world’s most legendary mountains.
Gandegg Hut
The final night is spent at Gandegg Hut, overlooking glaciers and some of the highest peaks in the Alps. Situated near the Theodul Pass, the hut offers magnificent panoramic views and a memorable final evening in the mountains before descending back to Zermatt.
A True Alpine Experience
Mountain huts are an integral part of Alpine trekking culture. Accommodation is generally in shared dormitory-style rooms, with shared bathroom facilities and a friendly communal atmosphere. The focus is not on luxury, but on the unique privilege of spending the night high in the mountains, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and immersed in the spirit of the Alps.
Every hut along the Matterhorn Trek has its own character, but all share the same qualities: welcoming hosts, delicious mountain food, and unforgettable views. These mountain refuges transform the trek from a simple hiking route into a genuine Alpine adventure.
Costs for the Guided Matterhorn Trek:
- With 6 hikers: 1’548.00chf per hiker
- With 2 hikers: 2’933.00chf per hiker
Included:
Organisation, local UIMLA mountain leader guide, 4 nights in mountain huts in shared rooms (private possible in some huts for a supplement), 4 dinners and breakfasts, 4 picknick lunches
(Please let us know if we can book a night for you in a nice Hotel on your arrival /departure day.)
Not included:
Personal insurances, getting to and Back Zermatt, first night in Zermatt, cable cars (optional)
Costs self guided Matterhorn Trek Switzerland:
- 2 hikers: 953.00chf per hiker
Included in the package are: Organisation, 4 nights in mountain huts in shared rooms, 4 dinners and breakfasts, showers, gpx tracks, detailed description, 4 picknick lunches
How to get to Zermatt
Public transportation
By train to the Matterhorn village: 31⁄2 hours from Zurich airport or 4 hours from Geneva airport. Visp is the transfer point to the Matterhorn Gotthard Railway. From Visp, the railroad line runs through the St.Niklaus Valley, past small, idyllic villages to Zermatt.
Zermatt is also the start or end point of the world-famous Glacier Express panoramic train journey (St. Moritz / Davos – Zermatt). Book your train ticket here.
Zermatt is car-free. Access for private vehicles is only permitted as far as Täsch (5 km before Zermatt). The Täsch – Zermatt road is closed to public traffic. The onward journey to Zermatt is either by private cab or by shuttle train. The trains run every 20 minutes. After around 12 minutes, the journey ends at the station square in Zermatt.
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