Photo locations · Zermatt · Switzerland
Riffelsee Matterhorn Reflection: sunset photography forecast
Riffelsee is one of the simplest Matterhorn compositions and one of the hardest to get perfectly: the mountain is obvious, but the reflection needs calm water and a clear summit at the same time. Dawn gives you the best chance of both.
Will tonight's sunset be worth it?
Riffelsee Matterhorn Reflection · forecast for sunset
Sunset: Good
Sun likely visible
19:49
in 9h 48m, local time
Forecasts have different ratings: 4/5 and 2/5
Why: Light corridor is open (2% blocking cloud out to 300 km) — reddened light can reach your sky.
The sky along today's light path — cloud density by altitude, from 5 km behind you to 350 km toward the sun. Rendered by the live app.
Current sunset outlook for Riffelsee Matterhorn Reflection: Good (3/5). Light corridor is open (2% blocking cloud out to 300 km) — reddened light can reach your sky.
- • Light corridor is open (2% blocking cloud out to 300 km) — reddened light can reach your sky.
- • Very thick mid/high cover (88%) — colour likely only at cloud edges.
- • Moderate aerosol load (AOD 0.09) — good scattering for saturated reds.
- • Good near-ground clarity enhances saturation.
Forecast refreshed a few hours before sunset · create a free account and run a full forecast for a place you choose — sunrise or sunset, free, before any card.
The orange line runs toward tonight's sunset, sampled out to 350 km.Open in Google Maps ↗
Today's sky is already decided.
Find out what it decided — before you pack the tripod.
Start freeFor photographers: shooting Riffelsee Matterhorn Reflection
Best months
Early July to late October for a normally ice-free lake. Late September and October can bring crisp air and fresh snow on the Matterhorn, but always check the first and last Gornergrat trains.
Suggested focal lengths
16–35 mm for shoreline, lake and reflection; 50–100 mm for the Matterhorn and smaller reflection details.
Composition
The main lake is not the only option. Walk around the shore and check the smaller pools below it; a low position hides empty sky and gives more weight to the reflection.
Recommended arrival
Be at the lake 45–60 minutes before sunrise. If the first train is too late, plan an overnight stay or a legal pre-dawn hike—do not assume the railway runs for first light.
Access planning
Zermatt is car-free. Take the Gornergrat railway to Rotenboden, then follow the signed path; at 2,757 m, weather and temperature can change quickly.
Parking: Park in Täsch and continue to Zermatt by train or approved taxi.
Approach: Roughly 10 minutes downhill from Rotenboden station; allow 15–20 minutes back uphill with equipment.