Summary: For an easy hike close to central Zermatt, opt for the 5-lakes trail. Looking back, we found it pleasant, but we would suggest skipping it if you're limited on time or energy. On a cloudy day, as we experienced, we only occasionally saw the Matterhorn. The trail's highlight isn't the lakes, some of which are artificial, but the charming mountain goats grazing along the path.
[This blog is part of a 10-days in Switzerland Trip].
5-Lakes Trail. This easy hike has a very modest elevation profile and would be good for families with kids. The photo above is taken near the entrance of the funicular at the top so if a short walk is what you're looking for, take this trail in reverse and stop at the first lake. Here, you'll be able to capture this pretty view of the Matterhorn.
Getting There. Some hikers choose to hike from Zermatt up to the 5-lakes trail but as we neared the end of our trip, we decided to take the funicular instead. This quick 15 minute ride was nearly empty on the early summer day we traveled.
Those with mobility problems can take a single-person funicular down the initial hill but you'll still have to walk a bit to get to the lake with the Matterhorn view. We guessed that this is for a short ski run during the winter but people were using it during the summer as well.
We started the trail using the same AllTrails route and direction.
At the first lake, we stopped and flew our drone to capture a closer look at a nearby waterfall.
Once it started to rain a bit, we packed up the drone and headed out on the trail again. Here we encountered the first set of mountain goats.
A little further down the path, the next set were hanging out in a little micro-climate area filled with wildflowers. These cuties have the fluffiest bottoms!
Continuing the hike down to the more lush area, we came across some winter ski cabins and restaurants.
Another lake along the way, this one man-made.
We're not claiming this is the top hike in all of Switzerland, but there are instances, like the one below, where you can't help but feel you're in an incredibly stunning place.
Back in town took a last walk through central Zermatt before heading back for a quiet evening in the AirBnB. We did some souvenir shopping, like purchasing some locally sourced lip balm and spice kits at Puralpina, since the next day was the start of our trip back to Zurich and then home.
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