One unique feature of Zermatt is obvious when you first glance at the trail map. In addition to the blue, red and black groomers, there are also many yellow-marked off-piste trails. These 36 kilometres of runs are particularly well-suited to anybody who would like to slowly test the water in freeriding, as these slopes are secured against the typical Alpine hazards. The most beautiful of these three freeride areas is located around the 3,542m Stockhorn, which is best reached via the Gornergratbahn cog railway. From Gornergrat you can then take trails no. 29 and 26 to Gant. From there, the gondola carries skiers up to the Hohtälli (3,286m), which is the entry point to the Stockhorn freeride area.
Heli-skiing with Air Zermatt
Zermatt is one of the few ski areas in the European Alps where heli-skiing is possible. In Air Zermatt, the ski area even has its very own helicopter service. Air Zermatt’s main role for over 45 years has been mountain rescue and that still rings true today. Nowadays, however, the operators are also offering a broad selection of heli-skiing tours. From 370 CHF (as of February 2016), Air Zermatt flies to various landing spots around Zermatt. The price includes an experienced guide. You can get more information on Air Zermatt’s heli-skiing offers here.
Finding a guide
If a helicopter flight blows your budget but you still want to explore untouched backcountry, we recommend heading over to the Zermatt Alpin Center. In addition to freeride guides, the Zermatt Alpin Center also offers mountain guides for hiking in summer among the 4,000m+ peaks surrounding Zermatt.