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Season: all year
Recommended season: all year
Max. altitude: 3883 m (12740 ft)What is Klein Matterhorn/Matterhorn Glacier Paradise? 
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is a viewpoint near Zermatt, to be reached by cable car. The top station is officially called "Klein Matterhorn", which means "Little Matterhorn".
It's located at an altitude of 3883 m, in between the Matterhorn and the Monte Rosa massif and at the Swiss-Italian border.
The view of the high peaks surrounding Zermatt is impressive. You'll see the Matterhorn from the south-east. This is a different perspective from what you see in most Matterhorn pictures.
A restaurant, the Glacier Palace, the Cinema Lounge, and year-round snow-fun options complete your visit. You can even make an additional gondola ride of just a few minutes to the Testa Grigia mountain station in Italy.
➤ Matterhorn Glacier Paradise prices and tickets
Return tickets Zermatt - Klein Matterhorn price overview 2026
| View more prices and discounts | Price November 2025 - April 2026 | Price May-June and September-October 2026 | Price July-August 2026 | Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| View ticket prices and discounts (swissrailways.com) | CHF 49.50 | CHF 60 | CHF 66 | ticket with Swiss Travel Pass (Flex), Swiss Half Fare Card or Matterhorn Gotthard Pass |
| View ticket prices and discounts (swissrailways.com) | CHF 99 | CHF 120 | CHF 132 | normal ticket without rail pass discounts |
Where to buy Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tickets
Tickets are available online. You can use any of the trusted purchase options below.
Buying your tickets online is easiest: you won't have to spend time on a purchase at the valley station. Instead, you can head straight for the electronic gates and board the gondolas.
Alternatively, tickets are for sale at the cableway stations in Zermatt, at Furi, and at Trockener Steg.
The Peak2Peak ticket and the Peak Pass
The Peak2Peak ticket and the Peak Pass can be used for the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and other mountain excursions from Zermatt. In some cases, they're a better option than normal Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tickets.
I explain all about the Peak2Peak ticket and Peak Pass in my Zermatt guide.
Costs for the cable car Klein Matterhorn - Testa Grigia (Italy)
From Klein Matterhorn, you can make an additional gondola ride to Testa Grigia in Italy. A full-fare return ticket all the way from Zermatt to Testa Grigia via Klein Matterhorn costs:
- CHF 143 in winter low season: November 2025 - April 2026
- CHF 183 in the shoulder season: May-June, September-October 2026
- CHF 207 in the summer high season: July-August 2026
The main rail passes get you a discount on the Italian stretch to Testa Grigia as well.
Additional costs for the Crystal Ride
If you want a ride in one of the Crystal Ride gondolas, you need an additional ticket. Prices vary and start from CHF 10.
➤ Cheaper cable car tickets with your rail pass
| Pass | Discount |
|---|---|
| Day Pass | Discount 50%:
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| Matterhorn Gotthard Pass | Discount 50%:
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| Swiss Half Fare Card | Discount 50%:
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| Swiss Travel Pass | Discount 50%:
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| Swiss Travel Pass Flex | Discount 50%:
|
Video
How to reach Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: directions, description of the cable car ride, map
The journey from Zermatt to the top station "Klein Matterhorn": quick overview
A trip of just under 1 hour on foot, by gondola, and by cable car gets you from the rail station of Zermatt to the top station Klein Matterhorn. These are the 3 main sections:
- the walk or electric bus ride from the train station of Zermatt to the gondola valley station
- the cableway ride from the valley station to mid-station Furi and mid-station Trockener Steg
- the gondola ride from mid-station Trockener Steg to the top station Klein Matterhorn
How to reach Zermatt
Zermatt is car-free. You can reach it by train as explained here.
Section 1: Zermatt railway station to Zermatt gondola valley station
From the rail station, follow the signs to the gondola station. It's a pleasant 15- to 20-minute village walk, allowing you to get a feel of the bustling town center. Alternatively, there are electric buses to get there.
From the valley station, the remaining ride up to Klein Matterhorn takes about 35 minutes.
Section 2: Zermatt gondola valley station to mid-station Trockener Steg
You can reach Trockener Steg in 2 ways:
- by direct gondolas in which you can stay seated via Furi and Schwarzsee, or
- by larger cable cars that require you to change at mid-station Furi
Depending on the season in which you visit, both options are available or one of them is.
In winter and summer high season, there's an additional 3rd option: you can get to the mid-station Furi by gondolas from Riffelberg, which is a station en route to Gornergrat.
Option 1: the direct "Matterhorn Express" gondolas
The actual trip starts from the valley station at an altitude of 1640 m. You will board the 8-seater "Matterhorn Express" gondolas to mid-station Trockener Steg located at 2939 m. The route first crosses the forests and meadows just outside Zermatt, until you reach the first mid-station of Furi (1867 m), where you can stay seated.
The Matterhorn Express gondolas will then bring you all the way up to Trockener Steg, via mid-station Schwarzsee (at 2583 m) and a few minor mid-stations mostly used by skiers. The scenery gets rougher, icier, and more alpine as the ride progresses.
Option 2: the large cable cars with a change at Furi
Larger cable cars leave from the valley station at Zermatt too. They'll bring you up to Furi, where you'll have to change for Trockener Steg. This route bypasses the slight detour via Schwarzsee made by the Matterhorn Express gondolas.
Option 3: alternative route via Riffelberg (en route to Gornergrat) and the Riffelberg Express
In December-April and in July-August, the "Riffelberg Express" operates: gondolas that connect Riffelberg (a mid-station on the cogwheel train line to Gornergrat) and Furi. Once you're at Furi, you can continue to Trockener Steg and Klein Matterhorn. Find more information here.
Section 3: Trockener Steg to Klein Matterhorn
Upon arrival at Trockener Steg, you have to get out have to get out and change to cover the final section: the 20-seater "Glacier Ride" gondolas to the top station Klein Matterhorn at 3883 m.
Some of these cabins have an extra luxurious feature, called the "Crystal Ride": a glass floor that turns transparent during the ride. You'll have to make reservations and pay an additional fee to experience this.
In my opinion, the ride from Trockener Steg to Klein Matterhorn is absolutely impressive seen from the regular windows as well! You'll pass snow-covered rocks, deep ravines and ice fields on your way up.
Section 4 (optional): Klein Matterhorn to Testa Grigia in Italy
At Klein Matterhorn, you can board yet another gondola that crosses over to the ski area of Testa Grigia in Italy. This "Glacier Ride II" takes just 4 minutes. "Crystal Ride" cabins are available too.
Downloads
Operation dates, schedules, and timetable 2026
When is Matterhorn Glacier Paradise open?
The top station Klein Matterhorn is accessible year-round. The options to get there differ per period and per section of the route: see below.
Always double-check your options in the up-to-date Swiss timetable: the standard schedules below can be subject to change, due to unexpected maintenance issues or the amount of snowfall.
Winter 2025-2026: Zermatt-Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
The main route to Trockener Steg: Zermatt-Furi-Schwarzsee-Trockener Steg (Matterhorn Express gondolas)
The continuous gondolas from Zermatt to Furi, Schwarzsee, and Trockener Steg operate from 15 November 2025 to 3 May 2026.
The alternative route to Trockener Steg: Zermatt-Furi-Trockener Steg (larger cable cars)
The larger cable cars from Zermatt to Furi and from Furi to Trockener Steg operate from 29 September to 14 November 2025.
From Trockener Steg to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise/Klein Matterhorn (Matterhorn Glacier Ride)
The Glacier Ride gondolas from Trockener Steg to the top station of Klein Matterhorn operate from 1 November 2025 to 3 May 2026.
Winter 2025-2026: Riffelberg-Furi (Riffelberg Express)
The Riffelberg Express gondolas between Furi and Riffelberg (en route to Gornergrat) are available from 29 November 2025 to 19 April 2026.
Winter 2025-2026: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise-Testa Grigia (Matterhorn Glacier Ride II)
The cable car ride to Testa Grigia in Italy is possible:
- from 1 November 2025 to 6 January 2026
- from 28 February to 3 May 2026
Summer 2025: Zermatt-Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
The main route to Trockener Steg: Zermatt-Furi-Schwarzsee-Trockener Steg (Matterhorn Express gondolas)
The continuous gondolas from Zermatt to Furi, Schwarzsee, and Trockener Steg operate from 13 June to 27 September 2026.
The alternative route to Trockener Steg: Zermatt-Furi-Trockener Steg (larger cable cars)
The larger cable cars from Zermatt to Furi operate from 4 May to 31 October 2026.
And those from Furi to Trockener Steg are available:
- from 4 May to 12 June 2026
- from 27 June to 16 August 2026
- from 14 September to 31 October 2026
From Trockener Steg to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise/Klein Matterhorn (Matterhorn Glacier Ride I)
The Glacier Ride gondolas from Trockener Steg to the top station of Klein Matterhorn operate from 4 May to 31 October 2026, except for two maintenance breaks:
- from 20 April to 15 May 2026
- from 28 September to 30 October 2025
During the revision breaks, the top station can still be reached with an alternative cable car from Trockener Steg.
Summer 2026: Riffelberg-Furi (Riffelberg Express)
The Riffelberg Express gondolas between Furi and Riffelberg (en route to Gornergrat) operate from 27 June to 16 August 2026.
Summer 2026: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise-Testa Grigia (Matterhorn Glacier Ride II)
The cable car ride to Testa Grigia in Italy can be made from 4 May to 31 October 2026.
Planning your trip in the Swiss timetable
You can consult the cable car and gondola schedules using the links here. Also, double-check your trip in the Swiss timetable. These are the destinations to enter:
- "Klein Matterhorn" is the name of the top station.
- "Zermatt" is the rail station of Zermatt.
- "Zermatt (Matterhorn Talstat.)" is the valley station in the village where the actual journey starts.
- "Furi", "Zermatt Schwarzsee", and "Trockener Steg" are the names of the mid-stations.
- "Testa Grigia" is the name of the gondola station on the Italian side of the border.
Best months for Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
In my view, a visit to the top is worth it year-round. Each season has its pros and cons.
December to February: winter
December to February is the winter season. You can expect snow on the high peaks surrounding Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. In clear weather, the views are mesmerizing.
The morning rides can be very busy with skiers and snowboarders.
March and April: winter around Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, transition to spring in the valley
March and April are winter in the alpine surroundings of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. There can still be quite some skiers and snowboarders, especially during weekends and Swiss school holidays. Other than that, it's usually quieter than in December-February.
In Zermatt and the rest of the Matter Valley, March and April are the transition months from winter to spring. Snow in the valley becomes less likely.
May and June: spring
In May and June, spring is well on its way around Zermatt. The snowy peaks create beautiful contrasts with the green vegetation in the Matter Valley. It's less crowded than in July and August, but the gondolas can already get pretty busy.
July-September: summer
This the summer season. From early July to mid- or late August, the alternative route via Schwarzsee is open as well. So are the Riffelberg Express gondolas. This means you can make varied round trips.
Expect busy rides: Klein Matterhorn is a popular destination in summer. The crowds decrease in September.
October: autumn
October is early fall. Chances of fresh snow increase and the conifers surrounding Zermatt start showing their autumn colors. It's significantly less busy than during the peak months of winter and summer.
November: fall to winter
November is low season, which means this is a great month for a relaxed ride to Klein Matterhorn.
There's usually quite some fresh snow on the peaks. Depending on the temperatures, there may still be some fall colors in the valley. If not, its vegetation may look a bit boring. But that hardly affects the tremendous views from the top.
Weather tips and forecasts for Klein Matterhorn
Which temperatures to expect at Klein Matterhorn
The top station "Klein Matterhorn" is at very high altitude and fully exposed to the wind, so temperatures are much lower than in Zermatt.
Even in summer, it can be around freezing point. In winter, temperatures are mostly far below that: about -10°C to -20°C.
What to wear
Prepare well: solid shoes, a hat, gloves, and a windbreaker help a lot. Also, stack several layers of clothes to adjust to the altitude.
Layering is especially important if you're combining a visit to Klein Matterhorn with activities a much lower altitude, such as a walk in the Matter Valley.
The type of weather you need
A visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is best in clear and sunny skies. You can still enjoy indoor activities such as the restaurant and the Glacier Palace. But if clouds block the views you'll miss out on the amazing mountain panorama that makes this trip so special.
Low clouds and fog in the Matter Valley don't mean it's not worth going up. Especially in autumn, the sky can be clear higher up in the mountains. So always check weather forecasts and webcams that show the views at the top shortly before you leave.
What to see and do at the top station “Klein Matterhorn”
The views
The mountain panorama can be enjoyed from several viewing points. The highest platform is accessible by a lift. The other main location is the exit and entrance next to the panorama restaurant, where the ski runs begin.
From both locations, you’ll see the many peaks of the Swiss and Italian Alps.
Other activities
Tunnels connect the several points of interest at Klein Matterhorn. Apart from the viewing points, this is what else to do:
- You can enjoy the views from the modern restaurant with panoramic windows. This is Europe’s highest restaurant!
- The Glacier Palace is an ice grotto inside the glacier with ice sculptures.
- The Cinema Lounge shows movies about the Alps, mountaineering and more.
- Under favorable weather conditions, you can ski year-round: even in summer! Note that the runs starting at Klein Matterhorn are meant for experienced skiers.
- It’s possible to extend your journey by a 4-minute gondola ride to Testa Grigia in Italy.
What to see and do at mid-station “Trockener Steg”
The last cable car station before Klein Matterhorn is Trockener Steg, which is worth a stop. This is what you can do there:
- In winter there are lots of ski slopes to enjoy.
- In summer several hikes start here. A famous trail is the one to the Gandegg hut, which has a small restaurant and offers basic lodging.
- You can have lunch in the restaurant.
- The views here are beautiful as well. You’re actually slightly closer to the Matterhorn than at Klein Matterhorn.
How to cross over to Italy: “Matterhorn Glacier Ride 2” to Testa Grigia
The “Matterhorn Glacier Ride II” from Klein Matterhorn to Testa Grigia
A cableway between Testa Grigia in Italy (at 3458 m) and Klein Matterhorn is available since July 2023. Along with the route from Zermatt, this “Matterhorn Glacier Ride II” provides a unique cross-border journey by cable car.
The gondola route connects the skiing areas of Klein Matterhorn in Switzerland with those of Testa Grigia in Italy. But if you don’t ski, this is an interesting side trip too.
The 4-minute ride features the same gondolas as those between Trockener Steg and Klein Matterhorn. Every 2 out of 10 cabins is a “Crystal Ride” one.
What to expect at Testa Grigia
The Testa Grigia gondola station in Italy is located amidst a snow sports area. The “SnowXperience Plateau Rosa” park can be used by beginners and experienced skiers. Snowtubing is available too. Or just sit back and enjoy the views from the Italian restaurant.
You can even descend by cableway to Breuil-Cervinia: a tourist resort in the Italian Alps.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise FAQ
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Is Matterhorn Glacier Paradise worth it?
Definitely! At nearly 4000 m it’s one of the highest spots in the Alps you can reach as a tourist. Being surrounded by the snowfields, glaciers, rocks and peaks surrounding Zermatt is a special experience.
The cableway journey is thrilling: you’ll see the scenery and vegetation change as you get higher and higher.
A disadvantage is that the indoor space at Klein Matterhorn is a bit small. If there are many visitors, the tunnels, restaurant, and lift to the viewing platform can feel crammed.
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Are Matterhorn, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, and Klein Matterhorn the same?
No. The Matterhorn is the famous Swiss mountain you’ll see on many photos and logos. Only mountaineers climb it. Tourists can’t walk or travel up to the Matterhorn. But you can get great views of the Matterhorn from various viewpoints near Zermatt.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is one of those viewpoints. Its top station is officially called “Klein Matterhorn”. Both names are used for the same excursion.
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How long does an excursion to Klein Matterhorn take?
If you spend about an hour at the top, you need about 2,5 hours for a round trip from Zermatt. But if you want to take your time, count on at least half a day.
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What is the “Crystal Ride”?
Crystal Ride cabins are gondolas with special glass floors, decorated by thousands of crystals. They operate in addition to the normal cable cars on the legs Trockener Steg-Klein Matterhorn, and Klein Matterhorn-Testa Grigia (in Italy). The glass floors turn transparent during the ride, which results in a thrilling view of the rocks and snow fields far below.
You need an additional ticket for a ride in Crystal Ride cabins. Availability is limited.
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Where and when can I ski at Klein Matterhorn?
Under favorable weather circumstances, skiing near Klein Matterhorn is possible all year long. The hard summer snow is not suitable for beginner skiers though. If you want to book a beginner’s class, you can best do so in winter.
There’s a snowpark at two different locations. In winter it’s located near the top station of the Furggsattel chairlift, which can be accessed from mid-station Trockener Steg. In summer, the park can be found on the Plateau Rosa. You can reach it via the top station Klein Matterhorn.
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Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Gornergrat or Sunnegga: how to choose?
If you don’t have time to do all 3 mountain excursions from Zermatt, please check my decision help here.
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Is altitude sickness a problem?
Klein Matterhorn is located at an altitude of 3090 m. Anyone can suffer from (light) altitude sickness from about 2000 m. You can feel light-headed and a bit out of breath after arrival. Usually, it helps to take things slow and sit down for a while.
Special precautions apply if you’re pregnant or in poor health: before visiting areas over 2500 m, you’d better consult your doctor. In most cases staying at such altitudes for just a few hours is no problem.
Note that children under 3 are not allowed on the final section Trockener Steg-Klein Matterhorn. This is due to the risk of altitude sickness.
➤ Where to buy Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tickets: safe websites
- www.matterhornparadise.ch: Zermatt summer skiing
- www.matterhornparadise.ch: Crystal Ride
- www.zermatt.ch: Snowpark Zermatt
- www.sac-cas.ch: Gandegg hut
- www.cervinia.it: the Cervinia ski area in Italy
Schedules
- www.matterhornparadise.ch: timetables of Klein Matterhorn, Sunnegga, Blauherd and Rothorn
Prices
- www.swissrailways.com: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tickets in the official SBB tourist webshop
- www.matterhornparadise.ch: ticket prices for Klein Matterhorn, Sunnegga, Blauherd and Rothorn
Gornergrat, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Sunnegga-Rothorn
Hike Furi-Zermatt
Gornergrat
Sunnegga-Rothorn
Town walk Zermatt
Mittelallalin
