The Matterhorn: A mountain to know
Altitude: 4,478 m / 14,692 ft
First climbed in 1865 from Zermatt by climbing legend Edward Whymper via the northeast Hornli Ridge (see route detail below) which is now by far the most popular and easiest route up
The most difficult, and deadly of the classic alpine peaks including Mont Blanc, Breithorn, Jungfrau, Monch, and Pollux
A technical alpine climb of rock, snow, and ice which requires any hopeful mountaineer to be adept at rock climbing in boots with crampons...and comfortable teetering on an inch-wide ledge above 1000 ft sheer drop to the valley floor
Famous (probably the most famous in the Alps) for its grandeur, prominence, and long-standing partnership with Toblerone
The classic Hornli route gets very busy, so plan ahead: book your guide (we can advise) well in advance as well as a bed at the Hornli Hut for the night before your summit attempt
Expect a 2-day climb with 2-3 days of training and lower acclimatization climbs beforehand
Its other ridges facing the four compass points are the Furggen, Leone, and Zmutt
Usually, climbers approach straight up from Zermatt or you can take a longer route from Chamonix and five days on ski and foot via the Haute Route, another worthy Alpine goal we'll feature next month
Guides, climbing experience, and decent gear are essential
Ideal timings are June - September after the winter snow has melted and before the colder, less stable autumn weather arrives
