Skitouring

Breithorn

Due to its short approach, the Breithorn is one of the easiest four-thousanders to climb in summer. Even in winter, the dream of climbing a four-thousander is still achievable. The incredible 360° views and the long descent to Zermatt make the mountain a very worthwhile aim, even in the colder months.

On the summit of Breithorn
  • Type Skitouring
  • Difficulty medium
  • Duration 4,00 h
  • Distance 17,8 km
  • Ascent 366 m
  • Descent 2572 m
  • Lowest point 1615 m
  • Highest point 4164 m

Description

Starting from the Klein Matterhorn, the route on skis heads across the Breithorn plateau before turning north and heading towards the Western Breithorn summit. After only a few minutes, you’ll find yourself up close to the imposing mountains of snow, ice and rock that are clearly visible from the village. Depending on the conditions, skis can be left just below the magical 4,000-metre point and the last section can be completed on foot (with crampons). On arrival at the summit, there are stunning 360° views to enjoy, stretching from the Bernese Alps to France and over to Italy.

  • 360° views not just of the Valais Alps, but also the Bernese Alps and over to Italy and France
  • Crampons may be needed depending on the conditions
  • Long, exciting descent on the glacier back to Zermatt
Klein Matterhorn – Breithornplateau – Breithorn – Breithornplateau – Theodul Glacier - Furi - Zermatt
Option: Descent via Schwarztor

We recommend to book a mountain guide who knows well the place.

We recommend:

  • Ski touring equipment: touring ski-boots, touring skis with touring bindings, ski poles, skins, crampons
  • Climbing harness
  • Backpack, shovel, probe
  • Avalanche transeiver
  • Warm weatherproof clothing
  • Warm gloves and warm hat
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Warm drinks
  • Snack (high energy foods such as chocolate, dried fruit etc.)

Important! Requirement: very good skiing skills and abilities, ski touring experience, surefooted with no fear of heights

Descent possible via Schwarztor.

  • Always go with a mountain guide on a tour
  • Stay up-to-date with the weather and avalanche status: Snow Report
    More information is available in the Swiss avalanche bulletins (www.slf.ch)
  • Always maintain visual contact with accompanying persons
  • Use key sections and extremely steep slopes individually
  • Never go into a wild game protection zone (these are marked and one will be fined)
  • Always switch the avalanche transceiver (LVS device) unit to transmission
  • Always carry a shovel and a probe
  • Pay close attention to daily atmospheric warming and continually re-evaluate the situation

Tip: “Be searchable”. Equip yourself with an additional RECCO rescue reflector*. Whether summer or winter. Available in our Online-Shop or our information desk.
*The additional reflector does not replace an avalanche beacon.

Map and arrival

detailed map