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Northwest Ridge

4A | D | IV Edit route
The northwest ridge is a documented alpine route on Grand Cornier and is more serious than the normal southwest ridge. It is a longer and more committing line, with sustained mixed terrain and greater exposure. Conditions on the ridge can be delicate, especially where snow cover is thin or the rock is loose. The route demands solid route-finding and comfort on exposed alpine ground. It is less commonly climbed than the normal route and is typically considered a more difficult objective.

Route Outline

Approach from the Zinal side or a suitable high camp
Gain the northwest ridge from the glacier or upper slopes
Follow the ridge over mixed rock and snow terrain
Continue to the summit of Grand Cornier
Descend by the chosen descent route

More routes on Grand Cornier

Southwest Ridge (Voie normale from Cabane de Moiry)

3A | AD | III
Approach Time
2-3 h
Ascent Time
5-7 h
Descent Time
3-5 h
This is the standard and best-known route to Grand Cornier. It is a classic alpine ridge climb combining glacier travel, snow slopes, and short rocky sections. The route is generally straightforward in dry, stable conditions but requires competence with crevasse travel and route-finding on the glacier. The upper ridge can involve exposed scrambling and mixed climbing, with conditions varying significantly by season. Objective hazards include crevasses, rockfall, and hard snow or ice on the upper mountain. It is usually climbed from the Cabane de Moiry, which serves as the normal base for the ascent.
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