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Contents
Gornergrat weather at a glance
- Average temperature: -5°C (23°F)
- Warmest month: June
- Coldest month: February
- Wettest month: June
- Windiest month: January
- Altitude: 3,135 m
- Maximum wind speed: 146 km/h
Seasons at Gornergrat
Season
Months
Temperature
Popular activities
Pro tip
Spring
March, April, May
-5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
Visit the Alpine Garden, Gourmet experience, sunrise over Riffelsee lake
Keep an eye out for the vibrant alpine flora starting to bloom—a stunning sight against the backdrop of snowy peaks!
Summer
June, July, August
5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)
See sunrises at Riffelsee, interact with Valais Blacknose sheep, mountain biking, hiking, Gornergrat Alpine Garden
Going to Gornergrat in summer increases your chances to meet the Valais Blacknose sheep. These fluffy creatures are typically found grazing near the Gornergrat station.
Autumn
September, October, November
5°C to 0°C (41°F to 32°F)
Hiking through the Pine and Larch forests, visiting mountain lakes around Gornergrat
Plan to visit mid-morning or early afternoon when the lighting is ideal for capturing photographs of the autumn foliage against the snow-capped peaks.
Winter
December, January February
-10°C to -5°C (14°F to 23°F)
Skiing, sledging, tobogganing, snowshoeing, Gourmet experience, Igloo village
Check weather and avalanche conditions before heading out, especially if you plan to ski or snowboard. Arrive early to catch the first train up for pristine views before the crowds arrive.
Gornergrat weather by month
January
-8°C to -16°C
Visit Gornergrat for spectacular views of the Matterhorn, skiing, snowboarding, and scenic train rides which show you alpine scenery.
February
-8°C to -16°C
If you enjoy extremely cold air against your skin while skiing and snowboarding, February is the month for you! You can also catch lovely views of the Matterhorn.
March
-3°C to -13°C
You can explore snow-covered trails, take scenic train rides, and soak in the alpine scenery before the snow begins to melt.
April
1°C to -9°C
Gornergrat begins to transition into spring with lingering snow. The skiing conditions are great early in the month, but this is where the snow sports season ends.
May
5°C to -6°C
Gornergrat starts to come alive with spring blooms and warmer weather. It's a perfect time for hiking amidst the blooming alpine flowers and exploring mountain trails before the summer crowds arrive.
June
9°C to -2°C
The weather is pleasant, and there is always the possibility of seeing the famous black nose sheep grazing in the lush alpine meadows.
July
11°C to 0°C
The summit showcases its summer beauty with abundant wildlife sightings, including sheep grazing peacefully in the alpine meadows. The weather is perfect for hiking.
August
10° to -1°
Gornergrat is at its peak for outdoor exploration, offering clear views of the Matterhorn and opportunities to spot sheep grazing in the alpine meadows.
September
7°C to -4°C
This is the time for pleasant weather and beautiful autumn colors! You can still see sheep grazing in the meadows against the backdrop of the Matterhorn if you’re lucky.
October
2°C to -7°C
Gornergrat begins to embrace autumn fully with stunning foliage colors. It's a quieter time to enjoy hiking amidst the picturesque landscapes, with occasional sightings of sheep grazing in the alpine meadows under clear skies.
November
-4°C to -12°C
The summit prepares for winter. Be ready for early snowfall and make sure you’ve packed all your winter essentials!
December
-8°C to 15°C
Gornergrat becomes a snowy haven, ideal for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, and scenic train rides amidst alpine views, making it a magical time in the Swiss Alps.
Best season to visit Gornergrat
Want to know what the best part about Gornergrat is? You can visit it any time of year thanks to the cogwheel train! The views are always amazing with 29 Swiss peaks over 4,000 meters, including the Matterhorn, Lyskamm, Monte Rosa, Dufourspitze and Gorner Glacier.
Summer is perfect for hiking and meeting sheep, as well as checking out the Alpine Garden's flowers. Winter offers prime conditions for snow sports like sledging and skiing, while the Igloo Village creates a magical atmosphere during this time.
Book your Gornergrat Railway tickets
Frequently asked questions about Gornergrat weather
Does the temperature in Gornergrat, Switzerland, change throughout the day?
Yes, the temperature at Gornergrat can fluctuate noticeably between day and night. During sunny days, temperatures can rise above freezing, especially in summer. However, after sunset, temperatures often drop rapidly due to the high altitude and lack of cloud cover.
Are there significant temperature variations between Gornergrat and Zermatt?
Generally, Gornergrat tends to be cooler than Zermatt due to its higher elevation. The temperature difference can range from 5°C to 10°C (9°F to 18°F) depending on the time of year and weather conditions.
What should I wear to Gornergrat to stay comfortable?
It is advisable to dress in layers when visiting Gornergrat. Even in summer, temperatures can be chilly, especially in early mornings and late evenings. A warm jacket, hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes are recommended. In winter, additional thermal layers, a scarf, and snow boots are necessary.
Can the weather at Gornergrat affect visibility?
Yes, weather conditions at Gornergrat, including fog, rain, and snow, can impact visibility. Clear days offer views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks, while cloudy or stormy weather may limit visibility. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your visit for the best experience.
How does the weather at Gornergrat affect outdoor activities?
Weather conditions at Gornergrat can greatly influence outdoor activities. During clear weather, hiking, skiing, and sightseeing are popular and enjoyable. However, adverse weather like snow or strong winds can limit outdoor activities, requiring adjustments in plans or even temporary closures of certain attractions and trails.
How often does it snow at Gornergrat?
Snowfall is common at Gornergrat, especially during the winter months from December to March. The area receives significant snow accumulation, creating ideal conditions for winter sports and offering picturesque snowy landscapes.
