Glacier Garden Loop (No. 24)

The Glacier Garden Loop starts and ends in Zermatt. Zermatt is a car-free village, so you'll need to arrive by train or taxi from Täsch. Once in Zermatt, the trail begins by heading towards Furi on Moosstrasse.

The Glacier Garden Loop is approximately 15.9 km long and typically takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes to complete by mountain bike. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, the Glacier Garden Loop is considered an ideal beginner or discovery route. It has a moderate overall difficulty with a technical difficulty rating of S1. It focuses more on experiencing nature than demanding riding skills, though there are some steeper climbs. It's also suitable for e-bikes to assist with ascents.

The terrain on this loop is varied. You'll find a significant portion of asphalt (about 45.5%), forested/wild trail (around 30%), and smaller sections of path and road. The route includes gravel roads that become steeper as you approach the Glacier Garden, involving some 'intense altitude meters'.

The loop offers picturesque scenery, exploring the valley carved by the Gorner Glacier. You'll get views of the Matterhorn, smoothed rock mounds, and larch trees. Key attractions include the At the Glacier Garden, the Glacier Gate, and the Furi Suspension Bridge Over Gorner Gorge. There's also a forest area near the Glacier Garden with a fire pit and playground.

The trail is particularly beautiful in autumn, usually around mid-October, when the larch trees turn a vibrant yellow. While enjoyable at other times, this seasonal change adds a special charm to the route.

The trail is generally considered dog-friendly, but always ensure your dog is on a leash, especially in areas with other visitors or wildlife. Be prepared to carry out any waste.

Typically, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to ride the Glacier Garden Loop itself. However, always check local regulations for any updates, especially if accessing specific attractions along the way.

Yes, the loop is suitable for families, especially given its moderate difficulty and focus on nature. The forest area near the Glacier Garden features a fire pit and a playground, making it a great spot for a family outing.

Yes, the route shares sections with several other paths. Notably, it covers significant portions of the Furi-Weg and Zermatt Furi-Zermatt trails, and also includes parts of the Moos-Trail.

When you reach the Furi Suspension Bridge Over Gorner Gorge, it's recommended to dismount and push your bike across for safety. Also, be aware of the steeper climbs, especially on the gravel road leading to the Glacier Garden.