Riding down the Matterhorn: Mountain biking in Zermatt

If you find yourself in Zermatt during the spring and summer months, you will discover sceneries very different from the well-known winter wonderland but just as enchanting. Sunny valleys, refreshing lakes and the snow-capped Matterhorn in the background will leave you breathless – and what better way to discover all these wonders than on two wheels? Zermatt boasts some of the most varied networks of mountain biking trails in the world and is a mountain bikers paradise. Whether you want to get out for a couple of hours or for an entire day, you can be sure that you will find a trail to make you happy. The routes are spread over three areas accessible by cable cars or mountain railways: Gornergrat, Rothorn, and Schwarzsee. They each offer different challenges for different levels, so read more about each below to know which one is for you.

Gornergrat

Gornergrat is accessible from Zermatt in about 30 minutes with the Gornergrat funicular train. You can also decide to stop at Riffelberg or Riffelalp for shorter and less technical trails. The top station, standing 3089m above sea level, will offer some of the most technical trails around with incredible views of the iconic Matterhorn’s reflection in the Riffelsee lake.

The Kelle trail is likely the most challenging trail from Gornergrat and around Zermatt in general. It is only suitable for experienced mountain bikers and will take you down 900m, testing your switchback riding skills and winding down a few very steep slopes.

On a Zermatt mountain biking trail

Gornergrat Classic

This trail is the perfect mix between technical challenge and sightseeing outing. It is suitable for experienced and intermediate riders, and some sections of the route might require that you push your bike if you are not 100% confident. The best part about this trail is the views it offers over the Gorner Glacier, the Matterhorn and the Riffelsee – make sure to get off your bike a couple of times to take in the scenery.

Moos-Trail

If you are coming from the Gornergrat Classic, you will finish your adventure on the Moos Trail. It is also a trail that can be done on its own, and is a great option for all levels of mountain bikers. You can reach the starting point via Furi and will pedal down all the way to Zermatt.

Rothorn and Sunnegga

Rothorn is 3103m high and offers trails that are a bit less challenging; and yet intermediate and advanced riders alike will not be disappointed. You can decide to leave from Sunnegga, at the tree line, or from Blauherd, depending on what route you are deciding to take. Overall, you can expect less rock gardens than in Gornergrat while still being able to improve your technical skills in the few switchbacks and rollovers of the following trails: 

Blauherd – Sunnegga

For experienced riders only, this descent starts slow but quickly becomes a real challenge. The views are especially spectacular, so take the time to stop a few times on the way. 

Sunnegga Trail

The newest trail around Sunnegga, this 9km flow trail is perfect for all levels. The track is wide and will take you down to Zermatt in 15 minutes, making it ideal as the end of a longer trail. Many riders also ride it several times to polish their technical skills.

Mountain biking near Zermatt

Schwarzsee

You can easily reach the Schwarzsee station with the Schwarzsee gondola. From there, get ready for adrenaline pumped riding at the foot of the Matterhorn. You can choose to either take one of the trails leading you directly back to Zermatt, or to adventure a bit further on one of the following routes:

Hobbit Trail

Known for the endless options of line choices, the Hobbit Trail is not for the faint of heart. It will give you stunning views over the Matterhorn’s North Face.

Yoyo Trail

Taking riders from Schwarzsee to Zermatt, this winding trail is for experienced bikers confident in their skills on a single trail. This route will offer varied terrains and challenges, including an ascending section.

When should you go?

The best time to go mountain biking in Zermatt is between June and October, as that is when most lifts will be operating and, therefore, when you will be able to reach the trails more easily. Keep in mind that, even during this period, the weather can change quickly and quite drastically, so pack for all circumstances. If you are an avid biker, make sure to plan your trip during TRAILLOVE, Zermatt’s own mountain biking festival, usually held in September. 

The region offers many more routes, and your best bet to know exactly which one(s) are suited to your experience is to discuss it with a local guide. You can also take a closer look at the trails in and around Zermatt on the Supertrail website – you will find useful information regarding the condition of the tracks as well. Zermatt offers mountain biking experiences in an incredible setting that you are not likely to forget; but the question is: will you be able to lift your head from your adrenaline rushed descent to take a look around? There is only one way to find out.