I went to have a look at the route this week (7 july 2011) and did the section between Gasenreid to the Europahutte, prior to taking a group of clients on a Haute Route trek that starts Monday. The route (the bit that is open) is in a shocking state, loads of stone fall danger, loose paths that are falling away from the side of the mountain and what little protection there is, has either been taken away by the constantly moving terrain or is placed in-appropriately.

The second half is closed from just beyond the Europahutte due to the new 230 m suspension bridge that opened a year ago being taken away by a landslide. You would need to drop down to Randa at that point and either continue to Zermatt via the valley bottom, climb back up 1300mtrs to the trail after the closure point or get a taxi to Taschalp and walk the last bit into Zermatt.

Yes I agree with the original post, this contrived route is in a totally unsuitable location, they play down the dangers and promote the great views but to be honest you will be too busy looking where you are putting your feet to bother about the vista!

I will be taking an alternative route with my group and will take the Europaweg of the itinerary from now on.

Good luck for those who fancy it!