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Normal Route from Jungfraujoch via the Mönchsjoch Hut

2A | PD | II Edit route
Approach Time
1-1.5 h
Ascent Time
4-6 h
Descent Time
3-4 h
This is the standard and best-known way to climb Mönch. The route is usually started from Jungfraujoch, with an approach to the Mönchsjoch Hut before the actual climb begins. It crosses glacier terrain and then gains the summit by snow slopes and a rocky ridge section. Conditions can vary significantly, and crevasses and hard snow are common objective hazards. The route is generally considered a classic alpine ascent rather than a technical rock climb. It is normally done with glacier equipment and good route-finding ability.

Route Outline

Jungfraujoch -> Mönchsjoch Hut
Mönchsjoch Hut -> glacier crossing below the south side of Mönch
Climb the south ridge / south flank snow and mixed terrain
Summit of Mönch
Return by the ascent route to Mönchsjoch Hut and Jungfraujoch

More routes on Mönch

South Ridge

3A | AD | III
The South Ridge is a documented alpine route on Mönch and is more serious than the normal route. It involves mixed climbing on snow, ice, and rock, depending on conditions. The ridge is exposed and requires solid movement on steep alpine terrain. Route-finding and timing are important because the face and ridge can be affected by changing snow and ice conditions. It is a classic mountaineering line rather than a hiking ascent.
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North Face

4A | D | IV
The North Face is one of the major alpine routes on Mönch and is significantly more serious than the normal route. It is a steep snow-and-ice climb with objective hazards from avalanche, ice, and changing conditions. The route demands strong crampon technique and secure movement on sustained steep ground. It is a classic face climb in the Bernese Alps and is well known in mountaineering literature. Conditions can make the route much harder than its nominal grade suggests.
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