Mark Twain Weg or Mark Twain Trail is the trail of the American writer Mark Twain which offers a peasant walk on the Riffelberg with breathtaking views of the Matterhorn. In his satirical account “Climbing the Riffelberg”, Mark Twain poked fun at the expeditions of the 19th century into the alpine world around Zermatt. Hikers who have prepared for their own personal expedition by reading the charming booklet “Climbing the Riffelberg” can visit the start of the trail to breathe some living alpine history. You can visit the oldest mountain hotel that was built in 1855, which Mark Twain probably spent the night. The trail then leads gently down to Riffelalp, where the hotel stands today. The original hotel was built between 1874 and 1884. It can be assumed that Mark Twain saw the hotel under construction, because he arrived in Zermatt on August 27th of 1878 and stayed for a considerable time. The hike and the booklet together promises a wonderfully entertaining experience, complete with glorious views of the Matterhorn, Weisshorn and famous 4000 meter peaks that frame Zermatt way below. This historical and exciting trail starts at Riffelberg and ends at Riffelalp with total distance of 2.53 kilometers taking approximately 50 minutes. The highest point on this trail is at 2578 meters with an ascent to 52 meters and descent of 416 meters.
Marmot Trail is a walk that is a must for families offering a chance to watch marmots close up. Marmots are fascinating animals, comical creatures whose shrill warning whistles can be heard from far away. This path offers an ideal opportunity to watch the antics of these furry rodents, which live in burrows and are active by day. Walkers may be lucky enough to enjoy the charming sight of the young leaving the burrow for the first time. There is a marmot observation posts at Sunnegga and this trail offers a panel describing the life of the marmots allowing children and families to learn a little something about these cute animals. This delightful trail starts at Blauherd and ends at Sunnegga with total distance of 3.81 kilometers taking approximately an hour and 10 minutes. The highest point on this trail is at 2578 meters with an ascent of 134 meters and descent of 425 meters. If you love animals or if you have children and want to go on a little hike with some fun but educational experience, this is the hike.
