today
/
tomorrow
/
day after tomorrow
/
Via Ferrata
Via ferrata Schweifinen - Route C
Route C of the via ferrata (fixed-cable climb) high above the roofs of Zermatt is often tackled straight after routes A and B. This requires a high level of fitness, but it is also the great attraction of the climb.
360°
Panorama
- Type Via Ferrata
- Difficulty C/D medium
- Duration 3,30 h
- Distance 5,5 km
- Ascent 791 m
- Descent 791 m
- Lowest point 1603 m
- Highest point 2164 m
Description
Route C of the via ferrata Schweifinen leads up a vertical rock wall via a wobbly and swinging cable ladder: a step up in terms of both interest and difficulty. Next comes an exposed section with nothing under climbers’ feet other than the iron rungs fastened to the rock. Since completing the three routes A, B and C requires time, stamina and a good level of fitness, climbers should plan carefully in advance and take account of weather conditions.
- For experienced via ferrata climbers
- Carved wooden statue of the Virgin Mary by Hugo Lehner from 1948
- Water tap, not connected
- Edelweiss
Access: From Zermatt station, follow the Bahnhofstrasse. Just after the office from the Zermatters, turn right onto the path leading to Edelweiss and Trift. Climb out of the village, up towards the Triftschlucht gorge. Before the path reaches the bridge over the Triftbach river, turn right onto the trail leading to the start of the via ferrata (approx. 30 minutes).
Descent: After completing route C, follow the path northwards; this then loops back to Zermatt (approx. 1h 15).
The map shows the access and return paths as well as the via ferrata itself.
We recommend:
- Strong, suitable footwear
- Clothing suitable for the weather
- Climbing harness, helmet and via ferrata set
- Food and drink
Important! A good head for heights, a sure foot and mountain experience are all needed
A highlight along the way is the wooden bench, where you can take a short break and enjoy gazing over the village.
- Plan excursion carefully and adapt to participants’ fitness level as well as the weather and season. Do not attempt to climb via ferrata in stormy weather.
- Use a full safety-compliant equipment set.
- Take careful account of participants’ ability.
- Via ferrata can also be climbed with a mountain guide.
- Maintain sufficient distance from other climbers.
- Use abseil site only with a mountain guide.
Important! Follow the route all the way to the end, to the official footpath.
Monitor the weather carefully and note any risk of storm: such conditions can be deadly on a via ferrata.
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.
