High route to Kalbermatten and Zmutt (Valais region, above Zermatt)

Strong northerly winds the next morning portend a coming storm, so this will be our last day of hiking in the Alps.

After hiking up a 1200 foot hill above Trift, we take a long traverse westward that provides us outstanding views of Matterhorn and adjacent mountains.

Strong winds create cloud plumes off the higher peaks.

Breathtaking view of Matterhorn from a narrow trail, located on a steep hillside, high above the valley below. Fortunately, we are now sheltered from the stronger winds.

Glaciers just west of Matterhorn.

A better view as we round the corner and begin a long traverse westward.

Looking up at Matterhorn.

After a small lunch by the trail, we continue hiking west.

Strong winds are generating some interesting cloud patterns on the peak just west of Matterhorn.

View as we descend to Kalbermatten.

After a hot meal in a small restaurant by the trail in Kalbermatten, we hike through Zmutt on the way back down to Zermatt.

Farmhouses near Zmutt at the end of an incredible hiking vacation.