Zermatt’s Five Lakes Walk Offers Stunning Matterhorn Views Across an Alpine Trail

Written By: Pritam Nath

Pritam Nath

Pritam Nath is a published writer, journalist, and media researcher with over seven years of experience in journalism, content creation, and strategic communication. He specializes in media studies, journalism and mass communication, content strategy, and audience-focused storytelling. A certified journalist, he has produced research-driven news, feature stories, and industry analysis across media, travel, tourism, hospitality, culture, and strategic communication. Combining academic expertise with practical experience in digital publishing, Pritam creates insightful, engaging, and credible content that informs diverse audiences. He continues to explore emerging trends in global media, journalism, tourism, and digital communication while developing impactful content strategies.

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August 26, 2026 2:10 PM

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The Five Lakes Walk in Zermatt combines both the picturesque scenery of Swiss alpine lakes and the breathtaking backdrop of the Matterhorn. The walk traverses a variety of landscapes, with each lake unique in appearance, and so therefore impressions. Along the route, you will see the Matterhorn and if the weather is good you will see what can only be described as the masterpiece of Mother Nature. Hikers love the trail because it offers the freedom to take in the natural surroundings at your own pace and there is so much to see in the Alps. This is just one of many reasons the Alps have become a popular destination to capture the perfect photograph or create a piece of art.

The combination of five lakes, grindjisee, staellisee, blauherd, leisee, and moosjisee, provides in total a 11.3 km long walking trail with a variety of scenery. The classification of this trail as moderate makes it the perfect choice for people seeking an intense alpine experience, but with the easing of time constraints traditionally associated with larger alpine treks. The consensus is that while predominately these hikers will go up the same way they came down, the weather is more unpredictable as you go higher, which requires a safety-oriented change of plans.

A Scenic Route Through Five Alpine Lakes

The Five Lakes Walk is one of Zermatt’s most recognisable hiking experiences because it combines several contrasting landscapes within a single route. The trail begins at Blauherd, around 2,571 metres above sea level, before descending towards Sunnegga at approximately 2,288 metres.

The five lakes each contribute something different to the experience. Stellisee is particularly associated with Matterhorn reflections, while Grindjisee is notable for its alpine vegetation and rare flowers. Grünsee offers a more rugged landscape, while Moosjisee has a distinctive milky turquoise appearance created by glacial sediment. Leisee provides a more relaxed setting and is popular with families.

Matterhorn Reflections Create the Signature View

The defining attraction of the route is the Matterhorn. Under favourable conditions, its distinctive pyramid shape can be reflected in Stellisee, Grindjisee and Leisee.

These reflections are highly dependent on weather, wind and water conditions, meaning visitors should not expect identical views throughout the day. Clear mornings can provide particularly rewarding photographic conditions, although mountain weather can change rapidly.

The appeal extends beyond photography. The constantly changing relationship between the lakes, mountain slopes and Matterhorn gives the hike a strong sense of progression, with viewpoints appearing naturally as the trail unfolds.

Five Lakes Walk at a Glance

Alpine Flora Adds Another Dimension

The Five Lakes Walk is not solely about mountain panoramas. Grindjisee provides an important botanical element, with alpine flowers and moorland vegetation surrounding the lake.

The landscape also demonstrates how glaciers and mountain geology have shaped the region. Around the route, hikers can encounter moraine formations, rocky slopes and vegetation adapted to demanding alpine conditions.

Moosjisee offers another geological and environmental contrast. Its characteristic colour comes from sediment-rich water associated with glacial meltwater. The lake is a reservoir, so visitors should observe local safety guidance rather than treating every lake along the route as a swimming location.

A Manageable Alpine Experience for Travellers

The route is classified as T2, placing it within the moderate category of Swiss hiking trails. This makes it considerably more approachable than demanding alpine routes, while still requiring preparation because of the altitude and changing mountain conditions.

The official route information recommends good footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, rain protection and sufficient food and water. Hiking poles may also be useful for travellers who prefer additional stability on descending sections.

The route can be suitable for children from around six years, but families should consider individual fitness, weather and the ability of younger walkers to manage an alpine trail.

Planning the Walk Responsibly

Mountain conditions should always influence the timing and preparation of a hike. Weather can change quickly around Zermatt, and visibility can deteriorate even when conditions appear favourable in the village.

Travellers should remain on marked paths, avoid hazardous areas and follow local warnings. Anyone planning the walk should also check the operating status of mountain transport and trail conditions before departure.

For visitors hoping to photograph the Matterhorn in the lakes, allowing flexibility in the itinerary can be worthwhile. The mountain may be partly obscured by clouds, and reflections can disappear when the water surface becomes disturbed.

Why the Five Lakes Walk Stands Out in Swiss Travel

This route does well to pack many experiences for travelers within a short time frame. You can see amazing high altitude lakes, unusual flora, glaciated valleys, and even one of Switzerland’s most famous peaks, without any hardcore mountaineering skills.

It is also very diverse and flexible and has things for photography enthusiasts, families, and avid hikers.

As it is also in the shadows of the Matterhorn, as well as its own famed mountains, the Five Lakes Walk path also has a lot to offer for Zermatt’s famed mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Five Lakes Walk in Zermatt?

It is an alpine hiking route connecting Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee above Zermatt.

How long is the Five Lakes Walk?

The official route is approximately 11.3 kilometres long.

How long does the hike take?

The published route duration is around three and a half hours, although individual walking and photography stops can extend the experience.

Where does the Five Lakes Walk start?

The route starts at Blauherd, at approximately 2,571 metres above sea level.

Where does the trail finish?

The route finishes at Sunnegga, approximately 2,288 metres above sea level.

Can the Matterhorn be seen from the lakes?

Yes. The Matterhorn can be reflected in Stellisee, Grindjisee and Leisee when conditions are favourable.

Is the Five Lakes Walk difficult?

It is classified as a moderate T2 hiking route and still requires suitable preparation for alpine conditions.

Is the trail suitable for families?

The route is listed as suitable for children from around six years, subject to individual ability and weather conditions.

Can visitors swim in the lakes?

Swimming opportunities exist at Grünsee and Leisee, while Moosjisee is a reservoir where swimming is prohibited.

What should hikers take with them?

Good footwear, weather protection, water, food and suitable clothing are recommended, with hiking poles useful for some walkers.