Hörnli hut

Hike to the Hörnli hut

  • Endurance
    3
    You're in top shape, experienced in the mountains, and enjoy pushing your limits. You’ll proudly look back on hikes over 6 hours and 800 vertical meters. Long, demanding tours, steep climbs, and technical terrain are no problem–even with a full backpack.
  • Technique
    4
    You're confident and sure-footed in challenging, sometimes pathless terrain. You handle boulder fields, exposed spots, snowfields, and steep gullies easily. Excellent alpine experience and a good head for heights may be needed (≈ T3–T4 level).
  • Duration
    approx. 6 h
  • Date
    July - September
  • Participants
    1-8 persons

Discover the Hörnlihütte at the foot of the Matterhorn with a ZERMATTERS hiking guide or mountain guide and experience the fascination of the Matterhorn up close!


About this tour



Duration

  • approx. 3 hours ascent to the hut, excl. breaks
  • approx. 2 hours back to Schwarzsee station

Date

Daily from July to September, depending on the opening hours of the Hörnlihütte.


Number of participants

Private: 1 to a maximum of 8 participants per hiking guide/mountain guide


Description

The Hörnlihütte is one of the most famous mountain huts in Switzerland. For over 130 years, this hut has been the starting point for climbing the legendary Matterhorn - the symbol of Switzerland and the Alps.


Program

1

09:00 Meeting point at the Matterhorn Express valley station

2

Ride on the gondola to Schwarzsee at 2,583 m

3

Hike to the Hörnlihütte, where lunch awaits

4

Return to Zermatt


Meeting point

At 09:00 you meet your guide at the Matterhorn Express valley station.

Meeting point on Google Maps

Matterhorn Express valley station at Dorsaz Sport


Additional costs

  • Rail journey Zermatt-Schwarzsee return: from CHF 64.00
    Reduction with GA, Half-Fare Card or Swiss Travel Pass (more information can be found here)

Material

You should have this equipment with you so that you are well equipped for the hike to the Hörnlihütte:


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.


The Hörnli hut

General information about the Hörnlihütte

  • At an altitude of 3,260 m, the Hörnlihütte is one of the highest huts in Switzerland
  • The Hörnlihütte was renovated in 2015 to mark the 150th anniversary of the first ascent of the Matterhorn by the Hörnlihütte Foundation of the Civic Community of Zermatt
  • In 2024, over 190 mountaineers and our mountain guides used the Hörnlihütte as a base for climbing the Matterhorn - an impressive number!


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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