Matterhorn Trek

Stages:

Day 1: Zermatt – Trift

The charming and historic Berggasthaus Trift is a mountain lodge run by the great-granddaughter of the original builder, together with her husband – a fifth-generation mountain guide – and their children.

Route description:
Ascent from Zermatt (1,620 m) via Schweifinen to the Berggasthaus Trift.
Difference in altitude: +901 m
Distance: 6 km

Day 2: Trift – Schönbiel Hut

Named after the sunny terrace at the back of the Mutt Valley where the Schönbiel Hut is located, this is the starting point of breath-taking snow and climbing tours, easily accessible by impressive hikes. Please note that the Schönbiel Hut will be rebuilt in summer 2025 and that there may be construction noise.

Route description:
Climb to the viewing points at Höhbalmen and Hohliecht (2,675 m) and over the lateral moraine of the Zmutt Glacier to the Schönbiel Hut (2,694 m). Postcard view of the Matterhorn with an unusual perspective.
Elevation: +780 m, -430 m
Distance: 11.3 km

Day 3: Schönbiel Hut – Hörnli Hut Matterhorn

Under the north face of the Matterhorn to the Hörnli Hut Matterhorn (3,260 m). From here, the Matterhorn climbers set off via the Hörnligrat to the summit of the Matterhorn. If you get up early in the morning, you can watch the headlamp parade of alpinists.

Route description:
Difference in altitude: +1105 m, -540 m
Distance: 13.2 km

Day 4: Hörnli Hut Matterhorn – Gandegg Hut

Clad in traditional Swiss pine, the Gandegg Hut promises more than 135 years of history, as well as a unique view of the Breithorn and the Theodul Glacier.

Route description:
Along the foot of the Matterhorn via the Matterhorn Glacier Trail and under the east face of the Matterhorn, the route leads to the Gandegg Hut (3,030 m). Imposing view of the Gorner Glacier, Monte Rosa and Breithorn.
Difference in altitude: +430 m, -660 m
Distance: 9 km

Day 5: Gandegg Hut – Zermatt

Descent to Zermatt (1,620 m).

Route description:
Difference in altitude: -1,415 m
Distance: 8.9 km

The routes and altitude distances given are for guidance only. The actual times and distances may vary depending on the route

chosen.

We recommend:

• Good footwear
• Hiking poles (optional)
• Clothing suitable for the weather (always carry a waterproof)
• Depending on the hut a silk sleeping bag is required
• Binoculars
• Camera / Telephoto

Important! A good head for heights, a sure foot are needed

Every current hut warden always has an exciting tale to tell about his everyday life.

• Plan every mountain tour carefully and adapt to participants’ fitness level as well as the weather and season.
• Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Appropriate clothing is therefore essential, along with adequate supplies of food and water. In uncertain weather, turn back in good time.
• Inform others of planned route, and whenever possible avoid going alone.
• Do not leave the marked routes; do not venture onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
• Please be considerate to other walkers and to plants and animals.
• Take note of the warning signs drawing attention to the constant danger in river beds and along watercourses below dams and reservoirs.