Valais Hiking & Trekking Guide 2025
Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Valais.
Valais is Switzerland's third-largest and most dramatically alpine canton, home to 40 of the Alps' 52 four-thousand-metre peaks including the iconic Matterhorn. With the driest climate in Switzerland, over 300 sunny days a year, and the country's largest wine-growing region, it offers an extraordinary blend of high-altitude adventure, luxury resorts, and centuries-old culture.
Top Hiking Trails
The best hikes Valais has to offer.
Haute Route (Chamonix to Zermatt)
hardThe legendary high-level trail from Chamonix in France to Zermatt is considered one of the finest long-distance mountain routes in the world. Passing beneath dramatic glaciated peaks through remote valleys, it is a true wilderness experience.
Gorner Glacier Trail (Rotenboden to Riffelalp)
easyOne of the most spectacular easy walks in the Alps, descending from Rotenboden station past the iconic Riffelsee lake to Riffelalp with continuous views of the Matterhorn, Gorner Glacier, and Monte Rosa.
Aletsch Panoramaweg
moderateThe definitive Aletsch Glacier walk, traversing the UNESCO World Heritage Site along the glacier's edge with continuous panoramic views of the 23km ice flow and surrounding 4000m peaks.
Matterhorn Trail (Five Lakes Walk)
moderateThe famous Five Lakes Walk (Fünf-Seen-Weg) around Zermatt passes five mountain lakes that each reflect the Matterhorn in their calm waters. A bucket-list hike with some of the most photographed views in the Alps.
Sierre–Zinal Race Route
hardThe route of the world-famous Sierre-Zinal mountain race (run annually in August) makes for an extraordinary day hike through Val d'Anniviers with views of five four-thousand-metre peaks. A serious mountain trail for fit hikers.
Bisse de Clavau Wine Trail
easyA delightful walk along an ancient bisse (irrigation channel) through terraced vineyards above Sion, with sweeping views of the Rhône Valley and the twin castle hills. Wine tasting at family wineries possible in season.
Gemmi Pass to Daubensee
easyTake the cable car from Leukerbad to the Gemmi Pass (2,322m) and walk across the open alpine plateau to the beautiful Daubensee lake. Stunning views and easy terrain make this ideal for families and less experienced hikers.
Mont Fort Summit (Verbier)
hardFrom the top of the Verbier cable car at 3,330m, a marked trail leads to the Mont-Fort summit (3,328m) with one of the most spectacular 360-degree panoramas in the Alps, encompassing the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, Grand Combin, and Mont Blanc.
Val d'Anniviers Trail (Zinal to Cabane du Grand Mountet)
hardA demanding but rewarding day hike from Zinal village to the Cabane du Grand Mountet mountain hut (2,886m), surrounded by glaciers and four-thousand-metre peaks in complete wilderness. The views of the Zinalrothorn and Besso are extraordinary.
Saas-Fee Glacier Trail (Fee Glacier)
moderateA circular walk through the heart of the Saas-Fee arena, approaching the Fee Glacier and offering close-up views of the ice and surrounding 4,000m peaks including Dom, Taschhorn, and Lenzspitze.
Obergoms Aletsch Cross-Country Trail
moderateA beautiful alpine walk through the Obergoms valley toward the Rhône Glacier, with sweeping views across the remote eastern Valais landscapes. Outstanding for wildflowers in July.
Grand St Bernard Pass Circuit
moderateA circular walk around the Grand St Bernard Pass and its lake, visiting the famous hospice and enjoying views across the Swiss-Italian border landscape. The area is steeped in Napoleonic and medieval history.
Trails by Difficulty
Find trails that match your fitness level.
🟢 Easy
Yellow trail markers; flat or gently undulating; suitable for families with children; walking shoes sufficient; no mountain experience needed
🟡 Moderate
Yellow trail markers with red-white-red sections; some elevation; good fitness required; walking boots recommended; basic mountain awareness needed
🟠 Challenging
White-red-white alpine trail markers; significant elevation and steep sections; fit and experienced hikers; proper hiking boots essential; map and compass skills helpful
🔴 Expert
White-blue-white or unmarked high alpine routes; technical terrain with exposure; certified mountain guide strongly recommended; full alpine gear required
Complete Hiking Guide
Detailed trail descriptions, packing checklists, and route recommendations.
Hiking Preparation
What to bring and how to prepare.
Essential Gear
Day Hikes
- Sturdy hiking boots/shoes
- Plenty of water (2-3 liters)
- Snacks and lunch
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Rain layer/jacket
- First aid kit
- Navigation (map, GPS, phone)
- Flashlight/headlamp
Multi-Day Treks
- All day hike essentials plus:
- Backpack (40-60L)
- Tent or shelter
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Cooking equipment
- Water purification
- Extra clothing layers
- Emergency supplies
Physical Preparation
- Start training weeks before challenging hikes
- Build up endurance with regular cardio
- Practice on local trails with elevation gain
- Break in new boots before the trip
- Acclimatize to altitude gradually if needed
Hiking Safety
Stay safe on the trails.
Always tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time. Carry emergency communication device in remote areas.
Check weather conditions before setting out. Turn back if conditions deteriorate. Never underestimate mountains.
Stay on marked trails. Getting lost in unfamiliar terrain can be dangerous. Carry navigation tools.
Be aware of wildlife. Research local animals and know how to respond to encounters.
Start early to allow plenty of daylight. Always aim to be back before dark.
Local Hazards
- Sudden weather changes — afternoon thunderstorms are common in July–August; check MeteoSwiss forecast every morning
- UV radiation increases significantly at altitude — apply SPF 50+ sunscreen even on cloudy days above 2,000m
- Loose rocks and scree on alpine trails — stay on marked paths and watch your footing on descent
- Glacial terrain is crevassed — never walk on glaciers without a certified mountain guide
- Altitude sickness can affect visitors above 2,500m — ascend gradually and descend immediately if severe headache or disorientation occurs
- Mountain rescue (Rega) is expensive without travel insurance — always take out comprehensive alpine travel insurance
- Wildlife encounters with marmots and chamois are common and safe; maintain distance from cattle and take care around alpine fences
Best Time to Hike
Plan your hiking adventure for optimal conditions.
🌸 Spring
April–May: lower valley trails open from April; mountain trails accessible from mid-May; wildflowers spectacular; some snow on higher routes
☀️ Summer
June–September: peak hiking season with all trails accessible; best for high-altitude routes; carry sunscreen and afternoon thunderstorm awareness
🍂 Fall
September–October: arguably the finest season — cooler temperatures, golden vineyards, autumn colours, fewer crowds; high trails closing from mid-October
❄️ Winter
November–April: low-altitude valley trails possible; mountain trails mostly snow-covered; snowshoeing trails replace hiking; check avalanche conditions
Explore Valais's Trails
Get our complete hiking guide with GPS routes, difficulty ratings, and local tips.
Download Hiking Guide