The Gornergrat Railway turns the journey from Zermatt into part of the adventure. As the train climbs above the valley, forest gives way to open alpine slopes and the Matterhorn rises into view. At 3,100 metres, the summit looks across the Gorner Glacier and a sweep of 4,000-metre peaks. Make the viewpoint your destination or step off at Rotenboden for the walk to Riffelsee, where the Matterhorn can appear in the lake’s reflection on a calm day.
Ride up to Gornergrat
The cogwheel train climbs from Zermatt through forest and into open mountain scenery, with new views opening at each turn. At the top, step out into a panorama of the Matterhorn, Gorner Glacier and surrounding peaks. Give yourself a moment to take in the scale of the landscape before heading back down. Check the railway’s live service and ticket information before choosing your day.
Walk from Rotenboden to Riffelsee
Riffelsee is reached on foot from Rotenboden, one stop below Gornergrat. If the trail is open, you can step off the train for the lake walk and return to the railway farther along the line. Check the current trail status and choose a ticket that fits the walk you have in mind.
View in GoExploringMake the summit your focus if you prefer a straightforward visit by train. For a hiking day, bring shoes suited to the trail and allow time to walk at your own pace.
Snow can close the lake trail even while trains are running, and poor visibility can change the summit experience. Check conditions before setting out.
Explore Gornergrat on the map, or compare it with a lower starting point in our Creux du Van guide.