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South Ridge from the Rottalsattel

3A | AD | III Edit route
The south ridge is the more distinctly mountaineering line on Jungfrau and is documented as a classic alpine route. It is generally more technical than the normal snow route, with mixed climbing on the ridge and more sustained exposure. The route is usually climbed from the Rottalsattel after an approach from the Rottal Hut. Rock quality and snow/ice conditions can be variable, so the difficulty depends strongly on conditions. It is a serious, exposed alpine climb requiring competence on steep mixed terrain. The route is not a trekking path and is only suitable for experienced climbers.

Route Outline

Approach via Jungfraujoch / Mönchsjoch Hut -> Rottal Hut
Rottal Hut -> Rottalsattel
Rottalsattel -> South Ridge
Summit of Jungfrau
Descend by the same line or via the normal route

More routes on Jungfrau

This is the classic and best-known mountaineering route on Jungfrau. It is a high-alpine snow and ice ascent with a long approach from the Jungfraujoch area to the Rottal Hut. The route climbs the south side of the mountain and finishes on the upper snow slopes and ridge near the summit. Objective hazards include crevasses, serac exposure on the glacier approach, and rapidly changing weather. Conditions can vary greatly from year to year, and the route is normally undertaken with full glacier equipment. It is a serious alpine climb rather than a hiking objective.
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