Let’s face it. It’s not an easy one. Starting point is Zermatt (1620 m) and the highest point you will reach is Mettelhorn (3406 m). Just the change of altitude makes this hike quite a hard one. You should also know it is marked as an alpine hiking trail, which means it is a bit more demanding than normal hiking trails and depending on the weather you might need some extra gear like crampons. Normally just good mountain boots and sticks (very helpful) are enough.
So how can you get there?
I would recommend to take a round trip not to go the same way back. You start your trip just behind the train station and take Wisshornweg which will lead you through a little larch forest. Sometimes it gets steep but the views on the top are amazing and are worth sweating for. Once you get to the top follow the signs to Platthorn/ Mettelhorn . Just before reaching Mettelhorn there is a small snow field that you need to cross. Sticks and good hiking boots are enough – no need for crampons (but double check the weather before).
When you get to Mettelhorn you will never forget the views. One of the best view spots in Zermatt.
Going down I would suggest to go through Trift and Edelweiss but you can also go back with the Wisshornweg that you took up.
Enjoy!
Practical information:
Starting point: Zermatt (1680 m)
Target: Mettelhorn (3406 m)
Hike lenght: over 8 km
Tip: Take hiking sticks! They will make your knees rest a bit on the way down. Remember: it is a long and quite demanding hike.
Text: Agnieszka Wajs
