Exploring Zermatt: A Snowshoe Hike Around the Matterhorn
Nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is a picture-perfect alpine village that feels like it was lifted straight out of a postcard. Cobblestone streets, cozy chalets, and a car-free center give the town a charming, peaceful vibe that’s hard to resist. But while the village itself is a delight to wander, the real magic begins when you step into the snow-covered trails that wind around the Matterhorn.
Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a longer alpine adventure, Zermatt offers a unique combination of scenic hikes, cozy mountain lodges, and jaw-dropping views. One of the best ways to experience this iconic landscape in winter is by snowshoeing one of the many circular loop trails at the base of the Matterhorn.
Getting to and Around Zermatt
Zermatt is famously car-free, which is part of its charm and helps preserve the village’s quiet, clean alpine atmosphere. Here’s what you need to know to get there:
By Car: You cannot drive directly into Zermatt. Most visitors park at Täsch, a small village about 5 km from Zermatt. There are large, secure parking facilities here, including short-term and long-term options.
Train Transfer: From Täsch, hop on the shuttle train to Zermatt. Trains run frequently (every 20 minutes or so) and take about 12 minutes. This is the most convenient and stress-free way to enter the village.
Walking & Local Transport: Once in Zermatt, the village is best explored on foot. Electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages are available if needed. All lifts and gondolas for nearby trails are easily accessible from the village center.
Local Language: The locals generally speak Swiss-German in this area of Switzerland, however they often will also speak quite fluent French and English, and sometimes Italian as well.
Tip: Plan ahead if you’re driving from farther away. Parking fills up quickly during peak ski and hiking season, so consider booking your parking spot and train tickets online in advance.
Discovering the Village of Zermatt
After hitting the trails, take time to explore Zermatt itself. The village is charming year-round, with quaint streets lined with traditional Swiss chalets, boutique shops, and inviting cafés serving hot chocolate and fondue. Highlights include:
The Church Square and St. Mauritius Church – a peaceful spot to admire classic alpine architecture.
Matterhorn Museum (Zermatlantis) – learn about the history of the area, mountaineering, and the first ascent of the Matterhorn.
Local bakeries and chocolate shops – grab a quick snack before your snowshoe hike, like a buttery croissant or handmade Swiss chocolate.
Even a casual stroll through Zermatt offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, which towers above the village with its sharp, iconic peak reflected in the surrounding snowy slopes.
Snowshoe Hike Loop Around the Matterhorn
For a truly immersive alpine experience, the Matterhorn snowshoe loop is hard to beat. This trail offers a combination of adventure, accessibility, and panoramic views, making it perfect for both first-time snowshoers and experienced hikers.
Trail Overview
Distance: Approximately 6–8 km (depending on your exact route)
Duration: 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, suitable for most fitness levels
Starting Point: Zermatt village or nearby mountain lift stations
The loop takes you through snow-blanketed forests, past frozen alpine streams, and across wide open slopes that reveal the Matterhorn from different angles at every turn. The crisp winter air, soft crunch of snow underfoot, and endless views of jagged peaks make this a truly unforgettable experience.
What You’ll See
Panoramic Matterhorn Views: Each bend in the trail offers a new perspective of this iconic peak, perfect for photos.
Alpine Wildlife: Keep an eye out for ibex or chamois, which sometimes wander the quieter parts of the trail.
Traditional Mountain Lodges: Stop at a lodge along the route for a warming cup of tea or mulled wine.
Tips for a Memorable Hike
Dress in Layers: Alpine weather changes fast. Thermal base layers, waterproof jackets, and insulated gloves are a must.
Bring Sun Protection: Snow reflects sunlight, so sunglasses and sunscreen are essential.
Check Trail Conditions: Trails are maintained in winter, but it’s best to confirm local conditions at the Zermatt tourist office.
Stay Hydrated & Snack Smart: Carry water and high-energy snacks—hiking in snow burns more calories than you think!
Rent Snowshoes Locally: Shops in Zermatt offer rentals and advice for trail selection. Alternatively, if you think winter snowshoe hiking might be a long term interest, get your own from Cabela’s and bring them in your checked luggage.
Extend Your Adventure
After completing the snowshoe loop, Zermatt has plenty to offer for a relaxing afternoon or evening. Warm up in a café, explore more trails, or continue gaining altitude by taking the scenic train ride up to Gornergrat for panoramic sunset views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. If you’re a photography enthusiast, every corner of Zermatt is a photo opportunity—from snowy rooftops to towering peaks bathed in golden light. Be sure to double check the time of the last train down to the village!
Why Zermatt is Special
What makes Zermatt truly exceptional is the combination of charming alpine culture and access to breathtaking mountain adventures. Snowshoeing around the Matterhorn lets you experience both: a quiet, snowy forest trail one moment, and sweeping mountain vistas the next. Whether it’s your first trip to the Alps or a return visit, this village and its trails never fail to inspire awe.
Planning your own Zermatt adventure? Subscribe to The Altitude Edit newsletter for more alpine hiking guides, mountain travel tips, and downloadable resources like trail maps and packing checklists. Bring the mountains closer and start planning your next unforgettable escape today!