Verbier, nestled at 1,500 meters in the French-speaking Valais region, is one of Switzerland’s top mountain destinations. Known for its panoramic views, alpine chalets, and outdoor adventure culture, Verbier is just as appealing in summer as in winter. Its hiking trails range from easy scenic strolls to challenging high-altitude treks that connect to the Tour du Mont Blanc.
Here’s a selection of the top hiking trails in Verbier — each with essential details like duration, distance, elevation gain, and level of difficulty.
⛰️ 1. La Pierre Avoi Hike
⏱️ Duration: 4–5 hours (round trip)
📏 Distance: ~9 km
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
📍 Starting point: La Croix de Coeur
⛰️ Elevation gain: ~700 m
Description: One of the most iconic hikes in the region, this trail takes you to the summit of Pierre Avoi, offering sweeping views of the Rhône Valley, Grand Combin, and Mont Blanc massif. The final ascent includes a steep, rocky section with chains.
🏞️ 2. Verbier to Cabane du Mont-Fort
⏱️ Duration: 5–6 hours (one way)
📏 Distance: ~12 km
🧭 Difficulty: Challenging
📍 Starting point: Verbier lift station
⛰️ Elevation gain: ~1,000 m
Description: A rewarding hike through wildflower meadows and across rocky alpine terrain, ending at the Cabane du Mont-Fort (2,457 m). Ideal for experienced hikers looking for a full-day adventure. Overnight stays possible.
🌲 3. Ruinettes to Lac des Vaux
⏱️ Duration: 2–2.5 hours (round trip)
📏 Distance: ~5.5 km
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Starting point: Les Ruinettes (via gondola)
⛰️ Elevation gain: ~300 m
Description: A popular and accessible trail leading to the picturesque Lac des Vaux. The water’s deep blue color and surrounding peaks make it a perfect photo stop or picnic destination. Combine with other routes for a longer day hike.
🌄 4. Col de la Chaux Loop
⏱️ Duration: 4–5 hours
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Starting point: Schatzalp funicular
⛰️ Elevation gain: ~600 m
Description: Begin at the historic Schatzalp Hotel and ascend to the Strela Pass for breathtaking views. This route combines alpine history with quiet trails and mountain charm. An alpine hut near the top offers refreshments..
🌿 5. Sentier des Chamois (Chamois Trail)
⏱️ Duration: 3–4 hours
📏 Distance: ~7 km
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Starting point: Les Ruinettes
⛰️ Elevation gain: ~450 m
Description: A beautiful nature trail through alpine pastures and forest ridgelines. If you’re lucky, you may spot wild chamois grazing in the distance. Ideal for a quiet hike with varied landscapes.
🏔️ 6. Verbier to Cabane Brunet
⏱️ Duration: 5 hours (one way)
📏 Distance: ~11 km
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
📍 Starting point: Verbier town
⛰️ Elevation gain: ~850 m
Description: A steady climb up to the Cabane Brunet, a charming mountain hut with incredible glacier views. Offers the chance to spot marmots and alpine ibex along the way. Hut food is well worth the trek.
🌾 7. Les Planards Loop
⏱️ Duration: 2 hours
📏 Distance: ~4.5 km
🧭 Difficulty: Easy
📍 Starting point: Verbier center
⛰️ Elevation gain: ~200 m
Description: This easy circular route explores pastures and viewpoints just above Verbier. A great warm-up hike or evening stroll, especially suitable for families.
🌅 8. Mont Gelé Panorama Trail
⏱️ Duration: 3–4 hours (loop)
📏 Distance: ~7.5 km
🧭 Difficulty: Challenging
📍 Starting point: Mont Gelé cable car (seasonal)
⛰️ Elevation gain: ~600 m
Description: High alpine route with jaw-dropping views of the entire 4 Vallées area. Best done during peak summer when snow is gone. Not suitable for beginners due to technical sections.
🌲 9. Verbier–Bruson Forest Trail
⏱️ Duration: 3 hours (one way)
📏 Distance: ~6.5 km
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Starting point: Verbier or Bruson
⛰️ Elevation gain: ~400 m
Description: A shaded and peaceful trail linking Verbier with the small village of Bruson via forest paths and suspension bridges. Ideal in hot weather.
🌄 10. Sunrise at Croix de Coeur
⏱️ Duration: 1.5 hours (one way)
📏 Distance: ~3.5 km
🧭 Difficulty: Easy to moderate
📍 Starting point: Verbier
⛰️ Elevation gain: ~300 m
Description: A short early-morning hike with a big reward. Catch sunrise over the valley from the Croix de Coeur viewpoint. Bring a thermos and enjoy the silence before the day begins.
🧳 Hiking Tips for Verbier
🌦️ Weather: Mountain conditions change quickly — always check the local forecast.
🥾 Footwear: Trails range from grassy to rocky — sturdy shoes recommended.
🚡 Lifts: Use gondolas to cut elevation gains or combine hikes. Summer lift passes are available.
🗺️ Maps & Apps: Trail maps available at the Verbier Tourism Office and through apps like SuisseMobile.
🧗 Safety: Stay on marked trails, bring layers, and carry water and snacks.
From glacier-fed lakes to dramatic ridgelines, hiking in Verbier offers endless variety and postcard-worthy views. Whether you’re chasing summits or soaking in silence, this alpine playground is ready to impress on foot.
