Temporary closure of summer skiing for visitors on the Theodul Glacier – training slopes may continue to be used on a limited basis

The persistently high temperatures, the lack of a night-time cool-down, repeated thunderstorms and the changed snow and glacier conditions mean that it is currently no longer possible to provide safe, high-quality skiing for guests. The challenges facing the technical maintenance of the transport facilities are constantly increasing due to these changed conditions. 

With this decision, Zermatt Bergbahnen is consistently upholding its high standards regarding the safety of its guests.

Martin Hug, CEO of Zermatt Bergbahnen, emphasises: “The safety of guests and staff is always our top priority. At the same time, we attach great importance to ensuring that our guests can enjoy good and safe conditions throughout the entire operating season. If these conditions are no longer met, operations will be responsibly adapted to the natural circumstances.”

Hans Flatscher, Alpine Director at Swiss-Ski, says: “Thanks once again to the excellent work of Zermatt Bergbahnen, we have found superb conditions on the Theodul Glacier since the end of June. We are very grateful that at least some of our teams will have the opportunity to complete training sessions in Zermatt over the coming days, despite the challenging circumstances.”

The temporary suspension affects only summer skiing operations for guests. The situation is being monitored continuously and reassessed on a daily basis. Maintenance work on the slopes and transport facilities is continuing, as are preparations for the guest and training slopes. As soon as natural conditions allow, summer skiing operations for guests will resume immediately.

Summer skiing is of great strategic importance to Zermatt Bergbahnen and the Zermatt destination. It forms a vital foundation for alpine ski racing and, in particular, for the development of young talent. Together with Swiss-Ski and numerous international federations, Zermatt Bergbahnen remains committed to offering summer skiing wherever natural conditions permit.