The best walks and hikes around Stausee Mattmark

Stausee Mattmark offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from relaxed strolls along the reservoir to challenging high-alpine mountaineering routes. The region features glacial peaks, a large artificial reservoir, and impressive waterfalls, catering to various ability levels. There are 19 routes in total, with 5 easy, 4 moderate, and 10 difficult options.

Yes, Stausee Mattmark is suitable for families and those seeking easier walks. The popular 8 km loop trail around the reservoir, such as the Mattmark Reservoir – View of the Mattmark Reservoir loop from Staudamm Mattmark, is relatively easy and takes about 2.5 hours. The path along the west shore is even accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, offering views of the lake and a waterfall.

For experienced hikers, Stausee Mattmark offers several demanding high-alpine routes. You can hike to the Monte Moro Pass, which leads to the Italian border and is marked by a golden Madonna statue. Another challenging option is the Mattmarksee – Glacier Trail to Britannia Hut loop from Staudamm Mattmark, which takes you through high-alpine terrain.

The region is rich in natural beauty and impressive structures. You can explore the turquoise-blue Mattmark Reservoir itself, surrounded by majestic peaks like the Allalinhorn. Look out for charming waterfalls, including a unique waterfall cascading over pin-shaped, hexagonal basalt columns directly into the lake. The impressive Mattmark Dam, Europe's largest earth dam, is also a significant landmark.

Yes, circular walks are a popular feature of the Stausee Mattmark area. The most well-known is the loop trail around the reservoir, such as the Mattmark Reservoir – View of the Mattmark Reservoir loop from Staudamm Mattmark, which offers continuous views of the lake. Another option is the View of the Mattmark Reservoir – Mattmark Reservoir loop from Saas-Almagell.

The hiking trails around Stausee Mattmark are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 1100 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning alpine scenery, the diverse trail options, and the unique combination of natural beauty and impressive man-made structures like the dam.

Yes, the Stausee Mattmark region is characterized by its high-alpine environment and glacial features. The reservoir is encircled by peaks, and the slopes to the west lead up to the mighty Allalin and Schwarzberg glaciers. Some demanding trails, like the Mattmarksee – Glacier Trail to Britannia Hut loop from Staudamm Mattmark, offer direct access to these glacial landscapes.

Yes, the Mattmark Dam, which is Europe's largest earth dam, serves as a popular starting point for many hikes. There is a visitor center at the dam that provides insights into renewable energy. Additionally, a modern mountain restaurant at the dam crest offers refreshments and unimpeded views of the reservoir and the Monte Moro Pass.

Stausee Mattmark is located at an altitude of 2,197 meters (approximately 7,208 feet) in the Saas Valley. This high-alpine setting contributes to its stunning panorama and the challenging nature of some of its trails.

Yes, the loop trail around the reservoir includes a unique section where the path along the west shore passes through a tunnel. This tunnel features regularly arranged openings that provide scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscape, adding an interesting element to the walk. You might also encounter the Icicle Tunnel at the Mattmark Reservoir.

Hikers at Stausee Mattmark are treated to a breathtaking panorama of dramatic mountains. The reservoir is encircled by prominent peaks, including the Allalinhorn and other 'four-thousanders' (mountains over 4,000 meters high), creating a truly majestic high-alpine environment.