Zmutt Ridge

The Hörnli Ridge is the normal and most frequently climbed route on the Matterhorn. It is a long alpine rock and mixed climb with sustained scrambling, exposed traverses, and several steeper sections protected by fixed ropes. Route-finding is important, especially in darkness and in poor weather. Rockfall, loose rock, and congestion are significant hazards on the route. The upper mountain is steep and very exposed, with serious consequences for mistakes. It is generally climbed from the Hörnli Hut in a very early start, often as a one-day summit push from the hut.

The Lion Ridge is the classic Italian route on the Matterhorn and one of the mountain's major historical ascents. It is a serious alpine route combining steep rock climbing, exposed ridge travel, and snow or ice sections depending on conditions. The route is generally less crowded than the Hörnli Ridge but remains committing and objective-hazard prone. Fixed ropes and cables are present on some sections, but the climb still requires solid alpine movement and route-finding. The Carrel Hut is the usual high starting point for the summit push. Weather, rock quality, and the length of the descent are major considerations.

The Furggen Ridge is a very serious and highly exposed route on the Matterhorn. It is known for steep, difficult mixed climbing and a strong alpine commitment. The line is much less commonly climbed than the normal ridges and demands excellent conditions and experience. Route-finding is complex and the terrain is often severe. The route has a strong historical reputation and is documented in major alpine references. It is not a beginner's objective and is typically attempted only by very competent alpinists.

The North Face is a major alpine face route on the Matterhorn and a classic objective in the history of steep alpine climbing. It is a serious mixed and ice route with significant objective hazards, including rockfall and changing snow conditions. The line is much more demanding than the normal ridges and requires strong technical ability in alpine conditions. Conditions on the face can change rapidly, making timing and weather critical. It is a well-documented route in guidebooks and climbing literature. The ascent is typically undertaken by experienced alpinists with a solid descent plan.