How do you tell an extraordinary story about one of the most famous ski resorts in the world? By focusing on the people who work behind the scenes to create the perfect skiing experience. That’s exactly what we did: In our latest feature, we followed the grooming team in Zermatt—the men who work through the night to ensure pristine slopes in Europe’s highest ski area.
Behind the Scenes of Perfect Ski Slopes
With over 26,000 kilometers of ski slopes across the Alps, daily grooming is an enormous challenge. Nowhere is this task more extreme than in Zermatt, where ski runs reach nearly 3,900 meters (12,800 feet). Here, at the Matterhorn, snow is guaranteed year-round, and the 360 kilometers (224 miles) of slopes must be prepared every single night—often under harsh conditions.
One of the experts responsible for this massive operation is Patrick Mooser, a snowcat driver for the Zermatt Bergbahnen. We had the opportunity to join him for a full night shift, witnessing firsthand how he and his team work tirelessly in the freezing cold and darkness to create the perfect ski conditions for the next day.
A Tough Job in Extreme Conditions
Avalanche Control: Safety comes first—before the first skiers hit the slopes, controlled explosions are used to stabilize dangerous snow formations. Slope Grooming: Heavy snowcats smooth out bumps, redistribute snow, and create ideal skiing conditions. Working in Extreme Weather: Freezing temperatures, strong winds, and low visibility—nights on the mountain are anything but comfortable.
WeatherStory – Bringing the Slopes to Life
Our feature provides a captivating look at the hard work, precision, and dedication that go into maintaining the perfect slopes at the Matterhorn. Through authentic storytelling and breathtaking visuals, we brought the groomers of Zermatt into the spotlight. The report was strategically placed in online media like WetterOnline, where it reached millions of viewers, raising awareness for the essential work of these often invisible heroes.
