Two spectacular trails, 46 km and 1.700 meters of elevation gain, including flow trails, natural paths, and views dominated by the Monte Rosa glaciers.
There are mountains that don't just provide the backdrop to a bike ride: they become an integral part of the experience. Valais is one of those places. Here, the Alps reveal their most authentic side, made up of glaciers, deep valleys, and peaks reaching nearly 4.000 meters. It's a harsh environment, where every element is taken to the extreme: the cold, the wind, the steep gradients, and the force of nature. But this very apparent harshness can transform into an incredible wealth of emotions for those who choose to approach these mountains with respect and curiosity.
For the Mingus Group, this Sunday had a special meaning. Seven riders, a friend with a profound knowledge of the Saas Valley as an exceptional guide, and two itineraries destined to leave their mark. In the background, the Monte Rosa massif and its glaciers, with Macugnaga just beyond the Italian border, a reminder of how these mountains unite two sides of the same extraordinary Alpine chain.
First half: Saas Grund's flow
After leaving the cars in Saas Grund, we begin a long climb that alternates between an initial stretch of asphalt and a comfortable dirt road. The pace is steady and allows us to enjoy a panorama that changes with every kilometer: the peaks are approaching, the glaciers are beginning to dominate the horizon, and the fresh air of the high altitude accompanies every pedal stroke.
The effort is amply rewarded once you reach the Saas Grund ski area. A small alpine lake reflects the surrounding mountains and invites you to take a short break to savor the silence and majesty of the landscape.
From here the script changes completely.
A long, perfectly maintained, flowy descent begins, one of the highlights of the day. Banked curves, natural banks, and a consistently flowing surface allow you to let the bike flow with complete control. The trail is fun and never boring, alternating with constant changes in pace that make for a smooth and rewarding ride.
Only in the final stretch, inside the forest, does the trail become more technical, with roots, narrow passages, and a few relaunches that require greater attention. An engaging finale that brings us back to the cars with a smile plastered on our faces.
We're off again: destination Mattmark
A descent like this would be enough to cap off a memorable day. But the group's enthusiasm is sky-high, and no one wants to stop.
The E-MTB batteries allow it, our legs respond and so we decide to tackle a second itinerary with the Mattmark dam as our destination, one of the symbolic places of the upper Saas Valley.
The climb begins on asphalt, then continues along the stream through an alpine setting of rare beauty. Every curve offers new perspectives of the surrounding mountains, while the Allalin Glacier guides your gaze toward your destination.
Once we reach the dam, a brief stop is almost mandatory. A magnificent landscape opens up before us, dominated by the immense reservoir and the surrounding cliffs.
The second descent also keeps its promises.
The route follows almost entirely natural, flowing, and fun trails, alternating between fast and more gentle sections. It's a different descent than the one in Saas Grund, more natural and immersed in the Alpine environment, but still offering the same satisfaction right up to the final meters.
Much more than numbers
At the end of the day the cycle computer shows 46 kilometers e 1.700 meters of positive altitude difference.
Important numbers, but they only tell part of the story.
What truly remains etched in your memory is the combination of emotions experienced: the extraordinary views of the Valais, the perfectly groomed trails, the exhilarating descents, and the pleasure of sharing a day of true mountain biking with a close-knit group of friends.
Valais is confirmed as one of the most attractive destinations in the Alps for MTB and E-MTB enthusiasts. The variety of routes, the quality of the trails, and a backdrop dominated by the great glaciers of Monte Rosa make this valley a destination capable of captivating every rider.
A busy Sunday, filled with two hikes, lots of smiles, and that feeling of freedom that only the mountains can provide.
The territory
Saas Ground
Situated at approximately 1.560 meters above sea level, Saas Grund is one of the four municipalities in the Saas Valley and a major gateway to the region's trails. During the summer season, it offers a dense network of mountain biking and hiking trails, while ski lifts allow for rapid access to the highest altitudes. The trails are meticulously maintained and are an increasingly popular destination for mountain bike and e-MTB enthusiasts.
The Mattmark Dam
At over 2.200 meters above sea level, the Mattmark Dam is the largest earth-filled dam in Switzerland. It lies at the foot of the Allalin Glacier, in a breathtaking Alpine setting, and is one of the landmarks of the entire Saas Valley. The artificial lake, surrounded by glaciers and peaks over 4,000 meters high, is an ideal destination for hikers and bikers thanks to the numerous trails that wind along its shores.
Saas-Fee, the glacier village
Just a few kilometers from Saas Grund lies Saas-Fee, one of Switzerland's most famous Alpine resorts. Completely closed to car traffic, the village is famous for its Mittelallalin ski area, offering summer and fall skiing thanks to glaciers rising above 3.500 meters. During the summer, it also becomes a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking and mountain biking trails nestled in a landscape dominated by thirteen peaks over 4.000 meters.
The Giro card
Location: Saas Grund – Mattmark (Valais, Switzerland)
Type: double E-MTB itinerary
Overall length: 46 km
Positive difference in height: 1.700 m
Maximum quota: about 2.200 m
Physical difficulty: ★★★★ ☆
Technical difficulty: ★★★ ☆☆
Recommended bike: E-MTB; this route can also be tackled on a mountain bike with excellent athletic training.
Recommended period: from June to October, subject to snow conditions.
Do not miss: the flow trail of Saas Grund, the panorama from the Mattmark dam and the spectacular views of the Monte Rosa glaciers.
