How to Climb the Matterhorn

Located on the border of Italy and Switzerland the Matterhorn has long been held as a classic climb among mountaineers. Even though it is not generally considered particularly dangerous because it is climbed so often, the Matterhorn can be a very dangerous and sometimes deadly climb.

Things You'll Need

  • Warm clothes
  • Climbing boots
  • Crampons
  • Hiking poles
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Hire a guide. The Matterhorn can be one of the safest climbs you ever do, if you hire a guide.

    • 2

      Hike up to Humli Hut, located at the Matterhorn trail head 10,700 feet above sea level, on the day before your ascent.

    • 3

      Get started early the next morning and begin walking up the hill. After a few hours you should come to a huge snow slope.

    • 4

      Attach your crampons to your climbing boots and continue up the hill using your hiking sticks for balance.

    • 5

      Shortly before you reach the top you will come to a vertical face. There are ropes permanently attached here. Use these to climb the face.

    • 6

      Walk a few hundred feet up the ridge after you clear the rock face and you will be at the very top of the Matterhorn. Be sure to take some pictures.