The European Alps

Ascent of the Wetterhorn ( 3701m )

The Wetterhorn dominates the Grindelwald Valley

with its great triangular 1300metre high limestone wall rising vertically

from the meadows of the valley floor.

An arduous 3 hour climb on a steep path traversing a series of cliffs is required

to reach the large Gleckstein Hut ( 2317m ) situated in upper pastures.

From the hut, after the usual early morning alpine start,

a track leads over stony ground to reach the Krinnen Glacier.

On the far side it is a long, steep climb ( alpine grade PD ) over mixed ground

- rocks, scree and snow to gain the Wettersattel

- the col between the Wetterhorn and the adjacent Mittelhorn.

A final steep snow slope brings one to the summit and a dramatic viewpoint

- immediately below the summit the cliffs drop sheer to Grindelwald in the valley floor far below.

A superb panorama of peaks unfolds to the west

including the famous alpine trinity of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau.