Col Durand is a high mountain pass in the Pennine Alps of southwestern Switzerland, rising to 3,435 m between the Val d'Anniviers and the Val de Zinal. It is not a classic hiking summit, but a serious alpine objective used by experienced mountaineers crossing between glacier basins. The pass lies in a remote high-mountain setting with extensive ice, rock, and crevasse terrain.
Access is usually made from the Cabane de Tracuit or from the Val d'Anniviers side, depending on conditions and route choice. The area is known for its dramatic views toward the Weisshorn, Bishorn, and surrounding 4,000-meter peaks. Because of glacier travel and route-finding demands, Col Durand is best suited to trained alpinists rather than casual trekkers.
Approaches are typically long and physically demanding, with an overnight stay in a mountain hut recommended. Snow conditions, crevasse openings, and rockfall can change quickly through the season. For this reason, the pass is usually climbed with rope, crampons, ice axe, and solid glacier experience, especially in early summer or after fresh snowfall.
No users yet
No users yet
No users yet
No users yet
No users yet
There are no true trekking routes to Col Durand in the usual sense, because the terrain is glaciated and technically alpine. The most common approach is the long hike to Cabane de Tracuit, followed by a glacier crossing toward the pass. This route is scenic and strenuous, with steep ascent, high altitude, and a full mountain-hut experience. It is suitable only for hikers with strong fitness and alpine guidance.
A second option starts from the Val de Zinal side and follows high mountain trails toward the glacier zone. This approach is less direct but offers excellent views and a gradual gain in elevation before the technical section begins. In both cases, the final part is not a trek but a mountaineering passage requiring route knowledge, stable weather, and proper equipment.
The standard mountaineering line to Col Durand is from Cabane de Tracuit over the glacier toward the pass. It is a classic high-alpine route with crevasses, snow slopes, and occasional mixed terrain near the top. The route is usually climbed in the early morning when snow is firmer and objective hazards are lower. In good conditions, it offers a direct and logical passage between the two valleys.
Another possibility is an ascent from the Val d'Anniviers side, combining glacier travel with a longer approach. This side is often chosen as part of a traverse or as an access line to nearby peaks and ridges. All routes demand rope travel, navigation skills, and the ability to assess snow bridges and weather changes. The pass is not recommended without alpine experience or a certified guide.
The nearest populated area is Zinal, a village in the Val d'Anniviers that serves as the main gateway to Col Durand. From Sierre, visitors can reach Zinal by road and public bus connections through the valley. The usual starting point for the ascent is the trailhead above Zinal, with the approach continuing to Cabane de Tracuit or another high hut depending on the chosen route.
Access is straightforward by Swiss standards, but the mountain itself is remote and requires a full alpine day or more. In summer, the road to Zinal is well maintained, and local transport links make it possible to arrive without a car. From the village, the route quickly leaves settled terrain and enters steep alpine slopes, so planning for altitude, weather, and overnight accommodation is essential.
For a safe ascent of Col Durand, local certified guides are strongly recommended. Reliable providers in the region include the Swiss Alpine Club hut network, UIAGM-certified independent guides based in the Valais, and established mountain schools in Zinal and Sierre. Typical guided prices for a private one-day alpine outing range from about CHF 550 to CHF 900 per guide, excluding hut fees, equipment rental, and transport.
For a two-day guided program with hut overnight, total costs often range from CHF 750 to CHF 1,300 per person in a small group, depending on group size and season. Well-known agencies in the region include Evolution 2, Swiss Mountain Guide, and local Valais guide offices. Prices vary widely, so confirm whether glacier gear, rope, and rescue coverage are included before booking.
The best time to climb Col Durand is usually from late June to early September, when the glacier is more stable and mountain huts are open. July and August often provide the most reliable conditions, although early season snow can make the route smoother and easier to travel on if crevasses are still well bridged. By late summer, melting snow may expose more ice and open crevasses, increasing technical difficulty.
Morning starts are essential because snow softens quickly under the sun. Weather windows in the Pennine Alps can be short, so climbers should monitor forecasts closely and be ready to change plans. Outside the main summer season, the route becomes a serious winter alpine objective and is only appropriate for highly experienced mountaineers with full avalanche and glacier skills.
Essential equipment for Col Durand includes crampons, an ice axe, harness, helmet, rope, glacier travel gear, and crevasse rescue equipment. Depending on conditions, climbers may also need two technical axes, snow pickets, and protection for mixed rock and ice sections. Sturdy mountaineering boots, layered clothing, gloves, goggles, and a headlamp are also important for a safe ascent.
Because the route is high and exposed, bring sun protection, a warm insulating layer, and enough food and water for a long day. A GPS device or map and compass are useful, but they do not replace route knowledge. If you are not fully confident in glacier travel, hire a guide and use shared technical equipment provided by the guiding service.
Plan Col Durand as a serious alpine outing, not a casual hike. Spend a night in a hut such as Cabane de Tracuit to reduce summit-day fatigue and improve acclimatization. Start early, check avalanche and crevasse conditions, and avoid the route in poor visibility. Weather can change fast at 3,435 m, so keep a flexible schedule and a backup plan.
Cell service is limited and unreliable on the glacier and near the pass, and internet access should not be expected. Tell someone your route and return time, and carry a fully charged phone or satellite device if possible. In the village, cashless payment is common, but huts may still prefer cash for some services. Respect the alpine environment and stay on the safest line.
Col Durand is one of the notable high passes in the Valais Alps and is often used as part of traverses between glacier valleys rather than as a standalone destination. Its position gives wide views of major peaks, including the Weisshorn massif, making it attractive to experienced alpinists seeking a remote and scenic crossing.
The pass is named after the Durand family, a name associated with the region's mountaineering history. Because it sits above 3,400 m, the landscape is dominated by snow, ice, and rock for much of the year. The area is also a good example of classic Swiss high-alpine terrain, where access is relatively easy to the valley but demanding once the glacier begins.
How long does it take to climb Col Durand? A guided ascent from a high hut usually takes about 4 to 7 hours round trip, depending on conditions, pace, and route choice.
How long does it take to approach Col Durand? The approach to Cabane de Tracuit from Zinal typically takes 4 to 6 hours on foot, with the final glacier approach adding several more hours on summit day.
Is there cell service and internet on the Col Durand? Coverage is poor to unreliable on the glacier and at the pass. Internet should not be expected.
How difficult is it to climb Col Durand? It is a difficult alpine route with glacier travel, crevasses, and possible mixed terrain. It requires mountaineering experience.
Can beginners hike Col Durand? No. Beginners should not attempt it without a qualified guide and prior glacier experience.
How many people climb Col Durand? It is a niche objective, so traffic is usually low. On busy summer days, only a small number of parties may be on the route.
No posts yet.
