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Gorge · Zermatt, Valais
Gornerschlucht
Gorge carved by the Gornera river in green serpentinite rock, crossed by wooden walkways and tunnels, about a 15-minute walk south of Zermatt. The season usually runs from June to mid-October.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Gornerschlucht
The Gornerschlucht lies south of Zermatt, near the hamlet of Blatten. The Gornera river, which carries meltwater from the Gorner glacier, has cut a deep fissure there since the last ice age.
The walls are of serpentinite, a greenish rock about 220 million years old. The water runs turquoise between them, loaded with glacial sediment.
Wooden walkways attached to the walls and small tunnels cross the gorge. They were opened to the public in 1887, and the crossing takes about 20 minutes. The upper, narrower part is only accessible on a guided tour with equipment.
From the gorge a trail continues to the Dossen glacier garden and to Furi, with a suspension bridge along the way.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 20 minutes in the gorge; 1 to 2 hours including the round-trip walk from the village.
Best time
Go between June and mid-October, when the gorge is open. On hot summer days the river is fuller due to meltwater.
How to get there
From the south of Zermatt, walk about 15 minutes toward Blatten along the marked trail.
Tip
Bring a jacket: inside the gorge the temperature is lower. The walkway is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. Combine it with the walk to Furi and return by cable car.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Gornerschlucht
Is the Gornerschlucht open year-round?
No. It is open only in summer and early European autumn, from June to mid-October.
How long does a visit to the Gornerschlucht take?
About 20 minutes inside the gorge, plus about 15 minutes' walk on each side from the village.
Can you bring children?
Yes, the walkways have protective railings. They are not accessible for baby strollers.