The Gorner Gorge (Gornerschlucht) is a spectacular slot canyon just outside Zermatt, carved by the Gornera River from glacial meltwater. Over thousands of years, the rushing water has cut a narrow chasm through green serpentine rock, creating a hidden world of waterfalls, whirls, and oddly sculpted rock formations.

You can explore it via a safe wooden boardwalk system bolted along the cliff walls, some sections of which date back to 1886! Walking through, you’ll be just above the foaming waters – it’s loud, refreshing, and exhilarating. In places the gorge is only a few meters wide, with water spraying up. The light that filters in gives the rocks a mystical green glow. Information boards explain the geology and how the gorge formed.

It only takes about 15–20 minutes to traverse the accessible part of the gorge, but it’s 15 minutes you won’t forget – truly an immersive way to witness nature’s raw power up close.

Prices: Modest entry fee – CHF 5.50 per adult, CHF 3 per child (6–15). Kids under 6 free. Bring cash (small entry kiosk at the gorge entrance).

Activity Level: Easy to moderate. There are some steep staircases and narrow parts on the wooden walkways, but anyone who can handle a few flights of stairs will be fine. The path is one-way through the gorge and then you return via a trail. Expect some dripping water – a waterproof jacket can be handy.

Getting There: A short 15–20 min walk from Zermatt center. Head along the river toward the south end of town and follow signs for “Gornerschlucht”. The main entrance is near Restaurant Blatten (south of Winkelmatten). You can also enter from the other end (Furi side) if doing a loop from the suspension bridge hike – but most people go from Zermatt upward. If using lifts, take the Matterhorn Express to Furi and walk downhill ~10 min to the gorge’s upper entrance (then walk down through gorge to Zermatt).

Seasonality: Open late spring through mid-autumn (typically late May to mid/late October) daily 9:15–17:45. Closed in winter (the walkways are removed or unsafe due to ice). Best visited during daylight – the canyon can be a bit dark; midday light illuminates it nicely.

Practical tips: Wear shoes with good grip – the wooden planks can be wet and a bit slippery from spray. A light rain jacket or poncho is wise; you’ll likely get misted by waterfalls. If you have a helmet (like a climbing or bike helmet) for small kids, you might put it on – not that it’s required, but occasionally a small stone or lots of water drips from above. If you’re adventurous, consider doing the gorge in combination with the Furi suspension bridge: you can hike one way via the bridge and return through the gorge (a popular loop). Just note the gorge closes by 5:45 pm, so plan to be at the entrance by 5 pm latest. Photographers: bring a tripod or steady cam for long exposures of silky water, but be courteous on narrow parts of the walkway. Finally, enjoy the natural “air conditioning” – on a hot summer day, the gorge’s cool damp air is incredibly refreshing. It’s a small excursion (the actual gorge walk is short) but absolutely worth the detour for its drama and beauty.