How to Start the Five Lakes Trail Zermatt

Your journey begins in the heart of Zermatt village at the Sunnegga-Rothorn valley station. You must purchase a ticket for the funicular and the gondola to reach the starting point. Most hikers choose to ride all the way up to the Blauherd mountain station. Knowing where to start the five lakes trail zermatt ensures a smooth morning departure.

The funicular ride to Sunnegga takes only a few minutes through a long mountain tunnel. Once at Sunnegga, you will transfer to a gondola that carries you higher to Blauherd. The elevation at Blauherd is 2,571 meters above sea level. You should check the lift operating hours for 2026 before you head out for the day.

The trail officially starts just outside the Blauherd station building with clear yellow signposts. You will follow the signs marked 5-Seenweg which is the German name for this route. Starting at Blauherd allows you to hike mostly downhill toward Sunnegga. This direction is much easier on your lungs and legs during the high-altitude trek.

Tickets for the mountain lifts can be bought at the station or via a mobile app. A return ticket to Blauherd typically costs around 50 to 60 Swiss Francs for adults. Discounts are available for those holding a Swiss Travel Pass or a Half Fare Card. Arriving early helps you avoid the largest crowds during the peak summer months.

A Detailed Five Lakes Trail Zermatt Guide to the Lakes

Stellisee is the first and most famous lake you will encounter on this scenic route. It is known for the perfect reflection of the Matterhorn on its calm surface. Many people visit this spot at sunrise to see the mountain glow in orange light. This lake is a highlight of any zermatt lake trails guide 2026 edition.

The second lake is Grindjisee which sits nestled among Larch trees and vibrant green bushes. This lake offers a more rugged and wild feel compared to the open Stellisee. You can find rare alpine flowers growing along the shoreline during the early summer weeks. It is a fantastic spot to pause and enjoy the quiet nature of the Alps.

Grünsee is the third stop and is often a favorite for those who like to swim. The water is cold but refreshing after an hour of walking under the sun. The area around Grünsee is quite rocky and shows the power of ancient glaciers. You can find several best picnic spots on five lakes trail zermatt near this location.

Moosjisee is the fourth lake and stands out because of its striking milky blue color. This unique hue comes from the glacial milk flowing down from the Findel Glacier. While you cannot swim here, the color provides a stunning contrast against the green hills. The path around this lake is wide and very easy to navigate.

Leisee is the final lake and serves as a popular mountain playground for families. It is located very close to the Sunnegga station and features a fun shuttle lift. Children can enjoy the play area while adults relax on the wooden lounge chairs. The water here is often warm enough for a quick dip in late July.

Understanding the Hiking Difficulty and Terrain

The Five Lakes Trail is generally considered a moderate hike suitable for most fitness levels. The total distance covers approximately nine kilometers from start to finish. Most of the path consists of wide gravel tracks or well-maintained dirt trails. You should learn how difficult is the five lakes trail zermatt before bringing very young children.

The route is primarily downhill when you start from Blauherd and end at Sunnegga. You will descend about 450 meters in elevation over the course of the hike. There are a few short uphill sections that might make you breathe a bit harder. Most hikers complete the entire journey in about two and a half to three hours.

The terrain can be uneven in certain sections between Grindjisee and Grünsee. You will encounter some loose rocks and roots that require your full attention. Wearing shoes with good traction will help you stay stable on the steeper parts. Always stay on the marked paths to protect the fragile alpine environment.

The high altitude can affect your energy levels more than you might expect. It is important to pace yourself and take frequent breaks to enjoy the views. Drinking plenty of water will help your body adjust to the thin mountain air. This trail is a great introduction to hiking in the Zermatt region.

Best Photography Spots for Your 2026 Trip

Capturing the perfect photo of the Matterhorn is a goal for many Zermatt visitors. Stellisee offers the most iconic shot where the peak mirrors perfectly in the water. You should bring a tripod if you plan to shoot during the early morning hours. Following a five lakes trail zermatt photography tips 2026 guide can improve your results.

Grindjisee provides a different perspective with trees framing the famous mountain peak. The reflection here is often framed by colorful wildflowers in June and July. Use a wide-angle lens to capture both the lake and the sky. The late afternoon light creates soft shadows across the valley floor.

Do not forget to look away from the Matterhorn to see the Findel Glacier. The massive ice flow is visible from several points along the trail toward Grünsee. These views offer a sense of the immense scale of the Swiss Alps. Using a polarizing filter can help reduce glare from the bright glacial ice.

Leisee is great for lifestyle photography showing people enjoying the mountain atmosphere. You can capture fun shots of the wooden rafts on the water. The reflection here is best during the early morning before the wind picks up. Make sure your camera battery is fully charged for the long day ahead.

Essential Gear for the Five Lakes Trail Zermatt

Proper footwear is the most important piece of equipment for this mountain hike. While sneakers might work, sturdy hiking boots provide much better ankle support on rocks. You can find more details in a zermatt hiking gear essentials 2026 checklist. Good socks will also prevent blisters during the nine-kilometer walk.

Weather in the Alps can change rapidly even on a sunny summer day. You should always carry a lightweight waterproof jacket in your backpack. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust as your body warms up. A warm fleece is useful if the wind picks up at higher elevations.

Sun protection is vital because the UV rays are very strong at 2,500 meters. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply high-factor sunscreen before you start walking. There is very little shade on the trail between the first and third lakes. Protecting your skin will make your recovery much easier the next day.

Bring at least one and a half liters of water per person for the hike. There are restaurants at Sunnegga and Blauherd, but few places to refill in between. Pack some high-energy snacks like nuts, fruit, or Swiss chocolate to keep you moving. A small first aid kit with bandages is always a smart addition.

Best Time of Year for Hiking in Zermatt

The hiking season for the Five Lakes Trail typically runs from June to October. In early June, you might still find some snow patches on the higher paths. By July, the trails are usually clear and the alpine flowers are in bloom. This is one of the most popular matterhorn view walks in zermatt for summer visitors.

August offers the warmest weather but also the largest crowds of the year. September is a fantastic time to visit for cooler temperatures and stable weather. The autumn colors begin to appear in the Larch forests during early October. You will see the needles turn a bright golden yellow against the blue sky.

The mountain lifts usually close for maintenance in late October or early November. Always check the official Zermatt website for the exact 2026 closing dates. If the lifts are closed, you cannot easily access the start of the trail. Winter transforms this area into a ski resort with different paths available.

Early morning is the best time of day to start your hike in 2026. The winds are usually calmer which results in better lake reflections. You will also finish the hike before the afternoon clouds often cover the Matterhorn. Starting by 9:00 AM gives you plenty of time to enjoy each lake.