Trail running

Via Valais Turtmann hut - Randa (Stage 7)

Nach einem Abstieg von mehr als 2000 Höhenmetern taucht der Weg ins Mattertal ein

Turtmanntal

5/11°

Closed

Discover the flagship stage of the Via Valais, its varied terrains, its incredible panoramas, and its highest point at 3610 meters, making it the highest trail in the Alps.

Difficulty

Difficult

Length

19.31 km

Duration

4:50 h
Nach einem Abstieg von mehr als 2000 Höhenmetern taucht der Weg ins Mattertal ein
Blick auf das Mattertal
Turtmanntal

Description

This seventh stage is undoubtedly the most adventurous of the Via Valais. From the Turtmann hut, a long ascent begins to the Schöllijoch, a pass opening towards the Matter valley. The alpine path leading to the pass is rocky and partially equipped with ropes. You walk along the Brunegg Glacier and pass under the Barrhorn before reaching the Schöllijoch, the most technically difficult part of the entire Via Valais. Via ropes and metal rungs, you go down to the glacier below and reach a rocky path. The latter requires extreme caution during the long descent of more than 2000 meters of altitude difference. Before reaching Randa, the route continues along the hillside and offers a panoramic view of the Matter valley. Below the Weisshorn, the path finally ends with a very steep descent to Randa.

Turn-by-turn directions

The ascent to Schöllijoch from the Turtmann hut is particularly steep and sustained. To reach the glacier from the pass, you must descend a series of ladders and wire ropes. After crossing the glacier, you find yourself on a rocky path that you use to descend to Randa. Walk through Chella and continue your way through the valley. Several bridges allow crossing of the Rosszügji as well as other fast-flowing streams. From the point where the path splits to climb up to Gross Kastel, you begin a steep descent to Randa.

Turtmann hut - Schöllijoch - Schölli glacier - Chella - Guggiberg - Rosszügji - Randa

Start

Turtmann hut (2519m)

Destination

Randa (1409m)

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Author's recommendation

Although it is not directly on the Via Valais, the Topali hut is worth the detour. Have a piece of cake and enjoy the view from the terrace.

Technical information

Altitude

3342m

1403m

Ascent

+1186m

Descent

-2296m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Tags

  • Linear route
  • Multi-stage route
  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Fauna
  • Insider tip
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Flora
Getting there
Information

Public transport

For the 1st stage Via Valais: Take the train to Martigny station, then to Le Châble. Access to the beginning of the path is granted thanks to a first cable car between Le Châble and Verbier and a second one from Verbier to Les Ruinettes.

Approach

For the 1st stage Via Valais: Take the A9/E62 motorway to Martigny, then continue on the Grand-Saint-Bernard route/Route 21 via Sembrancher to Le Châble. However, it is advisable to use public transport as it is a multi-stage run ending in Zermatt.

Parking

For the 1st stage Via Valais: At the cable car in Le Châble, there is a free parking lot with 240 spaces for a maximum of ten days.

Equipment

We recommend:

  • Good running shoes
  • Weather-dependent clothing: always carry a waterproof vest
  • Headgear
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Trail poles

Safety information

Use of the trail paths and information on this website is at your own risk. Conditions on-site may cause changes to the route. Valais/Wallis Promotion assumes no responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the information on this website. 

For all trails:

  • Use only marked trail paths and follow all signs and instructions – for your safety, to protect grazing animals, and out of respect for wildlife.
  • Close gates after passing through them.
  • Behave considerately towards other path users, plants, and animals.

For mountain trails:

  • Take extra sun protection. UV rays at altitude can be very strong, even in cloudy weather.
  • Plan your trail carefully: consider the required fitness level of all participants, weather forecasts, and seasonal conditions.
  • Weather conditions in the mountains can change very quickly and without warning. Appropriate clothing and provisions (food and drink) are very important. In unstable weather, it is better to turn back early.
  • Inform your family about your trail route. Avoid being alone if possible.
  • Observe warning signs that indicate dangers at riverbanks, along watercourses below dams and reservoirs: water levels can rise quickly and without warning.

Additional information

More information about the destination:

Literature

The tourist office in Turtmann provides you with information about trail running in the destination.

Maps

SwissTopo maps:

1:50,000 : 5003 Mont Blanc – Grand Combin 

1:50,000 : 5006 Matterhorn – Mischabel

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion

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