This is one of Zermatt’s most photogenic hikes, albeit one of the easiest. You take the Gornergrat cog train to Rotenboden (2,815 m) – the stop just below Gornergrat – and from there it’s only about 10 minutes downhill to the Riffelsee, a small lake famous for reflecting the Matterhorn in its still waters.

In the early morning or late evening when the wind is low, the lake becomes a perfect mirror, yielding that classic postcard shot of the Matterhorn double-peaked on the water’s surface. The trail is well-graded gravel and clearly signposted from Rotenboden.

Once at Riffelsee (2,757 m), you can walk around the lake (there are actually two lakes, an upper and lower – the larger upper lake provides the best reflection). Benches are available to sit and admire the view, which also includes surrounding glaciers and peaks. You then have a choice: walk back up to Rotenboden (a short but somewhat steep 50 m climb), or continue downhill about 45 minutes to Riffelberg station (2,582 m) along a scenic trail with more views.

Prices: Requires a Gornergrat train ticket (Zermatt to Rotenboden ~CHF 96 return in winter, CHF 132 in summer, but you can also buy specific station tickets: Zermatt–Rotenboden–Zermatt is a bit less). With a Half-Fare Card, Rotenboden round-trip is ~CHF 48 in winter. The hike itself is free.

Activity Level: Easy if just going down to the lake and back (~20 minutes total hiking). Moderate if you extend to Riffelberg (3 km, ~1 hour, 276 m descent). The altitude is the main factor – take it slow if not acclimatized.

Getting There: Board the Gornergrat Bahn in Zermatt and disembark at Rotenboden (about 28 minutes up from town). The trail starts immediately near the station (follow “Riffelsee/Riffelberg” signs). For return, either hike down to Riffelberg and catch a train from there or hike back up to Rotenboden to rejoin the train. Trains run roughly every 24 minutes during the day; check a timetable so you don’t have to wait long.

Seasonality: Summer and autumn for the lake reflection (roughly late June through October). In winter, Riffelsee freezes and is snow-covered (beautiful in its own way, but no reflection). However, a winter version of this hike is possible (snow permitting) as a marked trail, or you can ski past it on the way down from Gornergrat. The prime time is early morning in summer for calm conditions.

Practical tips: To maximize the mirror effect, aim for a windless time – typically dawn or very late afternoon. Mornings also have fewer hikers, so your reflection pictures won’t be disturbed by ripples. If you go for sunrise, take the first train up (or even hike up in early morning darkness if you’re keen; otherwise, sunrise from the train is gorgeous too). Bring water and sun protection; there’s no shade and the UV is strong at altitude. Also note that at Rotenboden there is no shop – carry snacks if needed. The hike to Riffelberg is worth it if you have time, as you might spot marmots and alpine flowers along the way (plus you can stop at Riffelberg’s restaurant). Keep kids close near the lake – the terrain is easy, but we want to preserve the tranquility of this special spot.