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Südgrat (South Ridge)

4A | D | IV Edit route
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.

Route Outline

Approach from the Zinal side to the high mountain base
Gain the South Ridge from the glacier or upper slopes
Follow the South Ridge over mixed rock and snow terrain
Continue to the summit of Zinalrothorn
Descend by the normal route or the ascent line, depending on conditions

More routes on Zinalrothorn

Normal Route via the Mountet Hut and the North Ridge

3A | AD | III
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.
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North Face

5A | TD | V
The North Face is a serious alpine face route on Zinalrothorn. It is significantly more committing than the normal ridge route and depends heavily on snow and ice conditions. The line involves steep climbing on mixed terrain with objective dangers from avalanches, serac or icefall, and rockfall. It is a route for experienced alpinists with solid competence in steep alpine ice and mixed climbing. Because of its seriousness, it is much less frequently climbed than the standard ridge. A precise line and current conditions are essential before attempting it.
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