Dog-Friendly Walks & Alpine Trails around Zermatt

The Matter Vispa river runs through the centre of Zermatt and the paved riverside path follows it from the south end of the village to the Sunnegga funicular base station, with constant Matterhorn views. Wide path, plenty of benches, several gravel bank pockets where dogs can dip paws in the glacial water. The classic morning village walk for resident dogs.

The iconic Five Lakes Walk (9.3 km, 590 m descent) links Stellisee — the lake with the famous Matterhorn reflection — with Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee, ending at the Sunnegga funicular. Entirely on marked Wanderweg trails, leashed dogs welcome throughout (off-leash discouraged due to summer Alpine pasture sheep). Leisee at the end has a roped-off dog swim area.

The Gornergrat cogwheel railway from Zermatt climbs to 3,089 m in 33 minutes, with leashed dogs accepted (half-fare adult ticket). At the top: a 360° panorama of 29 four-thousanders, the Gorner glacier, and the wider Monte Rosa massif. Hike down through Rotenboden to the Riffelsee — a small lake with another iconic Matterhorn reflection — and continue to the Riffelalp tram. Spectacular for dogs in cool weather.