Val d'Hérens Hiking Tour

This tour is considered challenging and strenuous, best suited for experienced hikers. You should be prepared for significant elevation changes, including steep ascents and descents, and potentially technical sections. For example, the climb to Col de Riedmatten is steep, and another stage involves a 1,700-meter climb to Cabane des Becs de Bosson.

The terrain is highly varied and dramatic. You'll hike through forested wild trails, paths, and some roads, crossing alpine meadows, passing serene ponds like Les Gouilles d'Essertze, and ancient villages. Expect wild, glaciated areas with views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and glacial moraines. You'll also find sections along the shores of the Lac des Dix and hear fast-flowing streams.

The tour offers numerous highlights. You'll get a fantastic View of Dent Blanche and follow a beautiful Valley Trail Along the Borgne de Ferpècle. Other notable features include the Grande Dixence Dam, Switzerland's tallest gravity dam, and charming villages like Evolène, known for its traditional architecture. You'll also encounter high alpine pastures and serene ponds.

The Val d'Hérens Hiking Tour is typically completed over 3 to 5 days, offering a multi-day experience. However, it's quite flexible, with options to adjust the duration to 2, 3, or 5 days depending on your interests, fitness level, and how much you want to explore.

The best time to hike this tour is generally during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for high alpine trekking, ensuring trails are clear of snow and mountain huts are open. Be aware that weather can change quickly in the mountains.

While dogs are generally welcome on trails in the Val d'Hérens region, it's important to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife. Given the challenging terrain and potential for ladders on alternative routes, assess your dog's fitness and ability to handle such conditions before bringing them on this specific tour.

Specific parking details for the entire multi-day tour can vary depending on your chosen starting point. Many villages in the Val d'Hérens, such as La Forclaz, offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check local information for the most convenient and secure parking options near your planned trailhead, especially for multi-day trips.

Generally, you do not need specific permits or pay entrance fees to hike the Val d'Hérens Hiking Tour itself. However, if you plan to stay in mountain huts or use public transport, those will incur costs. Always check with local tourism offices for any updated regulations or fees, especially for protected areas.

You might spot various wildlife such as deer, chamois, and marmots, along with different birds of prey and forest birds. The trail also features a rich diversity of flowers and butterflies, even at high elevations. You'll pass through unique natural areas like the high wetland of Les Gouilles d'Essertze and the pristine Vallon de Réchy.

Yes, for challenging sections like the crossing of Col de Riedmatten, there can be alternatives. For instance, the Pas de Chèvres route involves ladders, which requires surefootedness and a good head for heights. These alternatives can offer different experiences or bypass particularly difficult parts, so plan your route according to your comfort level.

Yes, the Val d'Hérens Hiking Tour intersects with several other trails. Significant portions of the route align with the 03-Tour pédestre du Val d'Hérens, and you'll also find sections that overlap with the Chemin des Haudères, Route de Sepéc, and Chemin de Lièfranc, among others.