Steinwild trail and ascent of Mällig

The ibex is the symbolic animal of the Alps: a wild goat species, known for its beautiful, long, and curved horns that distinguish the males of this species. These skilled climbers prefer steep, rough terrain at high elevation. Keep your eyes open and proceed carefully—it increases the chances of seeing these beautiful animals in the wild. Especially in the first part of the hike above the tree line, the ibex are often present.

The hike begins with a gondola ride from Saas-Fee to Hannig, followed by a steep zigzag ascent to the summit of Mällig. The path passes old avalanche barriers and a glacier moraine. Through the rocky terrain, the path leads to four additional small summits, from where there is a great view of the Saas valley and the four-thousanders in the surrounding area. Among them is the Dom (4545 m above sea level), the highest peak in Switzerland, which lies entirely on Swiss soil.

The path continues along the ridge before reaching the highest point of the hike at 2750 meters elevation. Here the route branches off northeast and follows the ridge of the Senggflüe before zigzagging over the rocky slopes. You reach the tree line and cross the alpine forest heading south.

Soon after, the path reaches a junction with the high trail along the west flank of the Saastal from Grächen to Saas-Fee. Our route turns right and follows the high trail southwards through the forest. The contrast with the exposed, rocky slopes above is dramatic. The path now runs through forest clearings, where the fragrant pine forest and the songs of birds engage all the senses. The path reaches the chalets of Saas-Fee before descending into the historic village center.

Highlights of the hike:

• Two contrasting sections: first, the rocky, panoramic high hike, and then the fragrant pine forests just before Saas-Fee.
• Scenic gondola ride and mountain restaurant for a stop at the start of the hike
• Good opportunities to observe wildlife: for example, ibex and birds of prey at higher altitudes; forest animals in the second section of the hike.