Roc de la Vache

Roc de la Vache is a rocky viewpoint peak of roughly 2,581 m above the village of Zinal, in the Val d'Anniviers (municipality of Anniviers, canton of Valais, Switzerland). It makes a rewarding summer day out in the Pennine Alps, with a close-up look at glacier country.

Where is Roc de la Vache?

The peak sits in the upper Val d'Anniviers near Zinal, at about 46.119° N, 7.645° E. The valley is one of the largest in Valais and is home to several resorts: Zinal, Grimentz, Saint-Luc, Chandolin and Vercorin. Zinal is the natural base for this summit.

How do you hike up Roc de la Vache?

In summer, footpaths start in Zinal. You can approach by skirting the massif via the Pas du Chasseur pass, or take the Sentier des Arolles. A popular loop returns along the south side past Lac d'Arpitetta and drops back down to Zinal.

Route figures depend on the variant:

• the Bergwelten listing: about 12.3 km, around 4 h 10 min on foot, roughly 920 m of ascent, with a high point near 2,574 m;
• the longer Visorando loop: about 15 km with some 1,100 m of climbing, rated difficult, with an average time of over seven hours.

Published heights differ slightly (about 2,574 to 2,581 m) because each route ends at a slightly different point.

What can you see from the top?

The panorama takes in the Zinal valley, the Zinal Glacier and the high peaks that ring it, among them the Weisshorn. Snow covers the area outside the summer season, so treat this as a summer and early-autumn objective.

What should you watch out for?

The edge of Roc de la Vache drops almost vertically into the valley, by nearly 1,000 m. Trail reports warn hikers to keep well back from the rim, especially with children or dogs. Check the weather and local trail conditions before setting out, and look for up-to-date snow information outside the summer months.

When is the best time to go?

Summer and early autumn, when trails are free of snow. Start in the morning for stable weather and the clearest views of the glacier and peaks. Carry water, sunglasses and a warm layer: above 2,500 m the temperature falls quickly.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Roc de la Vache?

Most sources give 2,581 m. Hiking routes end at points between about 2,574 and 2,581 m.

Where do you start the hike?

In Zinal, Val d'Anniviers. Paths lead via the Pas du Chasseur and the Sentier des Arolles.

How long does the hike take?

The shorter loop takes about four hours (around 12 km); the longer, harder one takes more than seven hours (around 15 km).

Is it dangerous?

It is a standard mountain trail, but the summit edge falls away almost vertically for roughly 1,000 m. Keep a safe distance from the rim and check the forecast.