Charles Kuonen suspension bridge - the best hikes 2024

5 Highlights at the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge

• At almost 500 m, the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the Alps.
• The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge connects Grächen and Zermatt via the spectacular Europe Trail, one of the most beautiful two-day hiking routes in Switzerland.
• Access to the suspension bridge is free of charge.
• In the middle of the bridge you look directly at the Weisshorn and the spectacular mountains of the Mattertal.
• The transparent floor provides a special thrill on the bridge, which can be reached on foot from Randa

What awaits you on the Charles Kuonen suspension bridge

The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge is a spectacular 494 m long, making it the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the Alps. At a height of up to 85 m above the trench bank, a head for heights is required. But those who dare to cross will be rewarded with gigantic panoramic views. The crossing takes about 10 min.

The bridge is also known as the "monument to the mountain panorama". Because the location of the bridge offers you an unforgettable view of the Weisshorn and the surrounding spectacular mountains of the Matter Valley near Zermatt. The transparent floor of the bridge provides a special thrill and a continuous view into the depths.

Fortunately, the bridge was constructed in such a way that it is well integrated into the natural environment and does not harm the gigantic mountain panorama.

The best hikes to the Charles Kuonen suspension bridge

Round trip suspension bridge Randa (No. 69):

The circular trail starts at the train station in Randa and runs in the direction of the Europabrücke. You walk through beautiful larch forests and pass beautiful viewpoints. After the "Hohtschugga" viewpoint you reach the gigantic Charles Kuonen suspension bridge. After the suspension bridge you take the Domhüttenweg, which leads you back to Randa. Optionally, you can make a detour to the Europa Hut, which is located directly on the famous Europa Trail.

The trail is suitable for the whole family, provided that all participants are free from giddiness.

• Difficulty: medium
• Distance: 8.6 km
• Duration: 4:00 h
• Ascent / Descent: 988 (↑ hm) / 988 (↓ hm)

Europe Trail:

The Europaweg is a very well-known hiking trail that runs between Grächen and Zermatt. It is one of the most beautiful two-day tours in the Alps.

From Grächen you walk along varied and spectacular trails to the Europa Hut, which is located above Randa. This first stretch takes about 7 hours. The next day you start with the unforgettable highlight, the gigantic Charles Kuonen suspension bridge. After crossing the bridge, you walk in the direction of Täschalp until you reach Zermatt. This route also takes about 6 -7 hours

• Difficulty: difficult
• Distance: 33.4 km
• Duration: 13:30 h
• Ascent / descent: 2550 (↑ hm) / 1882(↓ hm)

For whom is the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge suitable?

Crossing the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge is an unforgettable experience. Nevertheless, it is important that you are free from vertigo. If you are afraid of heights, this trip is not for you. The bridge has a transparent floor, so you have a continuous view of the up to 85 m below you. Moreover, the bridge is only 65 cm wide

Since dogs are often afraid of transparent floors, you have to judge for yourself whether you trust your dog to cross this bridge

During thunderstorms, the bridge may not be crossed due to possible lightning strikes. Otherwise, the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge is a great destination for the whole family