North Face

This is the standard and best-known way to climb Zinalrothorn. It is a classic alpine ridge route combining glacier travel, snow slopes, and sustained rock climbing on the upper ridge. The route is generally considered a serious but non-technical classic for experienced alpinists in good conditions. Objective hazards include crevasses on the approach glacier and rockfall or loose rock on the ridge. The upper sections are exposed and require confident movement on mixed terrain. The route is commonly done from the Mountet Hut, which is the usual base for the mountain.

The South Ridge is a documented alpine route on Zinalrothorn and is more demanding than the normal route. It is a long, exposed ridge climb with sustained mixed ground and route-finding. Conditions can vary significantly, especially on the snow and ice sections near the ridge crest. The route is suitable for strong climbers comfortable with exposed alpine terrain and efficient ropework. It is less commonly used than the normal north-ridge ascent. Descent is typically made by a standard route rather than reversing the full ridge in poor conditions.