5 lakes hike

Private 5 lakes hike - discover Zermatt on your own path

  • Endurance
    Level 2
    You have a solid level of fitness and are regularly out and about in the mountains. 4-6 hours walking time, 400-800 vertical meters await you. You can also master longer climbs, narrow paths and challenging stages at your own pace.
  • Technique
    Level 1
    You enjoy walking on mountain trails with moderate gradients and feel comfortable on natural, sometimes narrow paths. Sure-footedness is required, and you can easily master simple obstacles such as roots or steps.
  • Duration
    5 h
  • Date
    June - October
  • Participants
    1 - 8 persons

The 5-lake hike - discover Zermatt's classics

Five unique lakes await you on this hike: Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee - each with its own character and yet close to each other. Embark on this varied tour together with your hiking guide and gather fresh mountain air, unforgettable impressions and unique photo opportunities along the Matterhorn panorama.


About this tour

Highlights

  • Reflections of the Matterhorn: three of the five lakes - Stellisee, Grindjisee and Leisee - offer impressive reflections of the Matterhorn when there is no wind. These sceneries are particularly popular with photographers and on social media.
  • Diverse landscapes: The hike leads through varied landscapes: from alpine meadows to larch forests and rocky sections. Each lake has its own character, which makes the tour particularly varied.
  • Family-friendly route: With a length of around 9.8 km and moderate differences in altitude, the 5-lake hike is ideal for families and leisure hikers.
  • Unique play of colors: Lake Moosji impresses with its milky turquoise water, which is the result of glacier melt. This color contrast offers a special visual experience.
  • Panoramic views: Breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding four-thousand-metre peaks of the Valais Alps accompany you throughout the hike.

Duration

  • 5 hours, excl. breaks

Date

From June to mid-October, depending on the weather and conditions.


Number of participants

1 to a maximum of 8 participants per hiking guide
 


Description

Your hiking guide will accompany you to five unique lakes and share his knowledge about the region around the Matterhorn along the way. Each lake impresses with its own shape, color and character. This easy hike in the Zermatt mountain region is the perfect way to get to know the alpine landscape and its mountain lakes in a relaxed way. The 5-lake hike is one of the most popular attractions in the region and is also ideal for families, children and beginners thanks to its easy route.


Program

1

Meeting point at 09:00 at the Sunnegga Express valley station, welcome by your hiking guide.

2

Take the funicular and cable car to Blauherd (2,571 m), the starting point of the hike.

3

Hike along the five lakes: Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee - with plenty of time for photo breaks, explanations and short moments of relaxation.

4

Return to Sunnegga and leisurely descent to the village of Zermatt.


Meeting point Sunnegga
09:00 am at the Sunnegga valley station, in front of the entrance to the tunnel.

Google Maps


Additional costs

  • Train journey Zermatt-Blauherd single and Sunnegga-Zermatt single: from CHF 29.00
    Reduction with GA, Half-Fare Card or Swiss Travel Pass (more info here)
  • Drinks and snacks

Material

So that you are well equipped for the 5 Lakes Hike, you should definitely have this equipment with you:


Material

  • Good hiking boots
  • Small rucksack, max. 30 l
  • Comfortable hiking clothes, adapted to the weather
  • Water and windproof jacket
  • Cap / sun hat
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Beverages
  • Snacks (high-energy food such as chocolate, dried fruit....)
  • Possibly walking sticks

Insurance

Insurance is the responsibility of the participant. We recommend valid accident and evacuation insurance.


After booking

After booking, you will receive a confirmation by email. Please check that your details are correct.

Two days before the tour, you will receive a link to the customer portal.
Please contact us before the tour to go over the details (current weather, conditions, group size, etc.). You can reach us by phone, email or visit us at the ZERMATTERS Homebase.


5 Lakes

The five lakes of the 5-lake hike in Zermatt

  • Stellisee (2,537 m): Lake Stellisee is known for its impressive reflection of the Matterhorn in calm weather. This scenery makes it one of the most popular photo spots in the region.
  • Grindjisee (2,324 m)Somewhat hidden behind a former moraine, the Grindjisee delights with its diverse high moorland flora. Rare alpine plants grow around the lake - a little paradise for nature lovers and anyone who likes to take a closer look.
  • Grünsee (2,300 m): The Grünsee is aptly named: its unmistakable greenish color and the barren slopes around it create a very special atmosphere. A small sandy beach invites you to linger and relax. If you want to take a break, the nearby Grünsee restaurant is the ideal place for refreshments.
  • Moosjisee (2,139 m): The Moosjisee is an artificial reservoir that is used to generate electricity and make snow on the slopes. It is fed by glacier milk from the Findel Glacier, among other things, which gives it its characteristic milky turquoise color.
  • Leisee (2,232 m): The Leisee is Zermatt's bathing beach and a popular excursion destination for the whole family. With a children's playground, barbecue areas, picnic areas, pavilion for picnicking, play raft - and a magnificent view of the Matterhorn.


FAQ

Which hikes can I go on with ZERMATTERS?

Our offer ranges from leisurely panoramic and pleasure hikes to classic hut hikes, alpine trekking tours and high alpine mountain hikes around the Matterhorn and the Monte Rosa Group.

What is the difference between a guided hike and an independent tour?

On a guided tour, you benefit from the local knowledge, experience and safety of our certified hiking guides and mountain guides. You will discover hidden paths, learn exciting background stories about the region around the Matterhorn and can concentrate fully on experiencing nature.

Are there also hikes especially for families?

Yes, we offer numerous family-friendly tours - e.g. the 5-lake hike or relaxed hikes near the village. Special wildlife observation tours or easy hut tours, such as the Fluhalp, are also ideal for families with children.

Can I book a private hike?

Of course! On a private hike, we adapt the tour, pace and content to your individual wishes - perfect for groups, families or individuals looking for a personal experience.

What equipment do I need for a hike?

Good hiking boots, clothing suitable for the weather, sun protection and sufficient drinks are basic requirements. For alpine tours, we will provide you with additional equipment such as poles or crampons if required. You will receive a detailed packing list when you book.

When is the best time of year for hiking in Zermatt?

The classic hiking season runs from June to October. There are also wonderful tours in spring and fall, while special offers such as winter hiking, snowshoeing and glacier trails are available in winter.

How challenging are the hikes?

We offer tours at all levels of difficulty: from easy walks to moderately difficult hikes and challenging alpine tours. You will find a clear classification in the tour descriptions so that you can find the right hike for your level.

What can I expect on a snowshoe tour in Zermatt?

Our snowshoe tours take you through snow-covered landscapes, away from the slopes and far from the hustle and bustle. One popular tour leads to hidden glacier caves, which are a unique experience. With snowshoes, you hike safely through deep snow and experience the quiet winter world up close - guided by our experienced mountain guides.

Are there trail running offers in Zermatt?

Yes, we offer guided trail running tours! Whether you're a beginner or an ambitious runner - you'll find a variety of trails with magnificent views around Zermatt. Our guides will show you the best routes and give you tips on technique and endurance. With us, you can book your trail running adventure with professional athletes.

What is a hut hike?

A hut hike is typically a day trip with a mountain hut as your destination. You hike through the spectacular Zermatt mountains, enjoy the atmosphere in the hut and experience nature up close - ideal for anyone who wants to spend a special day in the mountains.

What is the difference between hut hiking and hut trekking?

On a hut hike, you hike to a mountain hut in one day, enjoy the atmosphere and return afterwards - ideal for a special day trip.

With hut trekking, on the other hand, you are out and about for several days: you hike from hut to hut, spend the nights in the mountains and cover longer distances through partly alpine terrain. Both options offer unique experiences in the Zermatt mountains - depending on your mood, time and fitness level.

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