Theme trail

5 Lakes Walk (Nr. 11)

The 5 Lakes Walk  is in a class of its own among hikes in the Zermatt mountains. The views of the mountain lakes are superb (with the Matterhorn reflected in three of them), and the trail is full of variety.

360° Panorama
Stellisee lake with reflection of the Matterhorn
  • Type Theme trail
  • Difficulty medium
  • Duration 2,30 h
  • Distance 9,8 km
  • Ascent 165 m
  • Descent 454 m
  • Lowest point 2130 m
  • Highest point 2584 m

Description

The path leads past the lakes of the Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee. Each of these mountain lakes is very different in terms of shape, colour, character and size, and has its own special attraction. The Leisee is good for swimming: children love it. The Grünsee looks out over a rather more rugged landscape, where Swiss stone pines nevertheless manage to grow among the scree and sand. The shores of the Grindjisee are home to rare flowers. And so on – each one promises a unique experience.

  • Appropriate for children from age 6
  • Reflection of Matterhorn in Stellisee, Grindjisee and Leisee lakes
  • Findeln Glacier moraine
  • Swimming in the Leisee and Grünsee lakes
  • Children’s playground at Leisee, good picnic site

Blauherd - Stellisee - Grindjisee - Grünsee - Moosjisee - Leisee - Sunnegga

(Hiking time in reverse direction: approx. 2h 50)

This hike is marked on the signposts as “5-Seenweg”.

We recommend:

  • Good footwear
  • Hiking poles (optional)
  • Clothing suitable for the weather (always carry a waterproof)
  • Optionally swimming things (swimming facilities in the Leisee and Grünsee)
  • Optionally picnic

Hold a family consultation: plan a stop at a mountain restaurant, or would the majority rather have a picnic?

In addition, three of the lakes offer an amazing mirror view of the Matterhorn in good weather.

  • Plan every mountain tour carefully and adapt to participants’ fitness level as well as the weather and season.
  • Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Appropriate clothing is therefore essential, along with adequate supplies of food and water. In uncertain weather, turn back in good time.
  • Inform others of planned route, and whenever possible avoid going alone.
  • Do not leave the marked routes; do not venture onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
  • Please be considerate to other walkers and to plants and animals.
  • Take note of the warning signs drawing attention to the constant danger in river beds and along watercourses below dams and reservoirs.

Map and arrival

detailed map