As the most recognized mountain on the European continent, the roughly chiseled rock pyramid of the Matterhorn serves as a defining geographical landmark. With a near perfect pyramid, its absolute symmetry demarcates the exquisite nature of this beautiful mountain. Nestled in the Swiss Alps, birthplace of climbing, an ascent of the Matterhorn hearkens back to the purist traditions of climbing. The Matterhorn, which stands over the town of Zermatt, is nearly steeple-like in both structure and magnetism. The region nearby is comprised of lush meadows and pristine landscapes. The combination of scenic beauty, superb lodging and the ability to challenge oneself by day and live in luxury by night, makes climbing in Switzerland a rather comfortable alpine experience. In preparation for the ascent of the Matterhorn, we climb a succession of stunning peaks. As part of the expedition, both novice and experienced climbers receive training to prepare for technical ascents. With each climb, the intensity of difficulty increases as we move from the Riffelhorn to Pollux to the Rimpfischhorn and finally to the Matterhorn. When we reach our final climb of the Matterhorn, the climber-to-guide ratio is 1:1. This unique opportunity to climb in one of the most famous climbing regions in the world is unrivaled in excellence and quality. Our 2003 Climb experienced 100% summit success. Our 2004 team experienced similar success.
History
Lodged in the Pennine Alps along the Swiss-Italian border, the Matterhorn's history dates back to the Whymper team ascent in 1865. The climbing accomplishments continue into modern day with such achievements as Swiss Guides Arnold and Graven completing two complete traverses, covering all four ridges in 19½ hours. In 1995, B. Brunod set the record for the fastest ascent reaching the summit in 2 hours, 12 minutes and 29 seconds from the village of Cervinia. Other notable ascents include the first woman, Lucy Walker (British) in 1871, first ascent of the North Face in by F. and T. Schmid in 1931 and W. Bonatti's a solo winter ascent on a new direct route of the North Face in 1965.
Our staff of Matterhorn guides is led by Perren Benedict. Perren or "Beni" a famed Matterhorn guide for over 15 years has accumulated over 100 ascents of the Matterhorn! Himalayan climber and dear friend. He has been with Alpine Ascents as a guide on Everest and on first ascent expeditions in Greenland.
PREREQUISITES
Climbing Skill Level
Climbers should have completed our one of our rock climbing courses along and/or 6-Day Training course or have equivalent experience. Some combination of the two may suffice so please contact the office with questions.
Physical Conditioning
In the best interest of personal safety, success and team compatibility, adequate training and excellent physical condition is required. Climbers need to be in excellent physical condition for both personal enjoyment and to be an integral team member. We encourage you to contact us so that we may assist you in developing a training program that meets your particular needs. Comprehensive training information can be found here.
Environmental Responsibility
Alpine Ascents is deeply committed to maintaining ecosystems at home and around the world. With each expedition, trek and course, we not only attempt to leave the environment as we found it, but strive to assist the local population in protecting the land and people indigenous to that region. Alpine Ascents reaches for the highest ethical business practices at home and abroad. Each staff member is dedicated to environmentally sound alpine ascents.
At Alpine Ascents environmental stewardship remains one of our core values and we take Leave No Trace ethics and practices very seriously. The mountains are our home and we are unwilling to sacrifice their preservation for human objectives. On every one of our courses and climbs we teach and follow the environmentally appropriate Leave No Trace principals and practices.
Over the years, with the assistance of our Sherpa teams, we have stepped up efforts to clean Mt. Everest. Our Wag Bag® program made a pioneering step in human waste management for the National Park System and Forest Service in the North Cascades. On Aconcagua, we pioneered a waste removal system on our climbs, utilizing the WAG Bag® system. And we continue our on-going maintenance and minimal impact plans wherever we guide. We believe that given the proper information most people will do all they can to help protect and maintain the environment. Alpine Ascents is committed to developing safe, self-reliant and environmentally conscious mountaineers.
Private Groups
We regularly organize private climbsfor individuals, corporate groups, families and friends. We encourage you to book these climbs early as we are often able to cater these climbs to group-specific desires. Please contact our office to further discuss the benefits of private courses.