11,220 ft
5,580 ft
10.71 mi
Viewed 2546 times, downloaded 71 times
near Ried, Canton du Valais (Switzerland)
Ascent to Oberrothorn from Sunnegga and return to Zermatt through lakes Stelisse and Grindjisee. Oberrothorn is claimed as the highest peak in Switzerland (3414m) that can be reached through a hike trail and in summertime after July there is a possibility that it can be found not covered with ice or snow. The starting point was the Sunnegga station at 2280m. The funicular ride from the valley station in Zermatt to Sunnegga takes about 4.5 minutes. This can save time and effort. If you decide an ascent from Zermatt you have to consider an earlier start and +600m uphill. From Sunnegga the trail climbs to Blauherd at 2571m and takes up to an hour. This part is also known as the marmot trail as there is a chance to see those charming animals from a close distance. The next point is Furggji (2981m) that is located on the ridge between the Unterrothorn (left) and the Oberrothorn (right). The last 433m of the ascent lead to the summit of Oberrothorn that there is a spectacular view of peaks over 4000m (Monte Rosa, Matterhorn, Breithorn etc) and glaciers. The descent to Zermatt passed through Furggji again and through the lakes of Stellisee and Grindjisee. This part is easy and can be walked without any difficulty. The trail is recommended for experienced hikers. Proper footwear, clothing (fleece, waterproof, gloves, beanie, hiking poles) are required as there is always cold in that heights and there is always a possibility of a sudden weather change. No altitude symptoms experienced. It took about 3 hours from Sunnegga to Oberrothorn summit with a normal pace rating and 2 5-minute stops.
Summit
Oberrothorn summit
Stella Frabaschali Mar 8, 2022
I have followed this trail View more
Information
Easy to follow
Scenery
Moderate
Moderate difficulty ascent with very nice scenery