Matterhorn

Matterhorn

The Matterhorn is a stunning, nearly symmetrical pyramid shaped peak that stands in the extended Monte Rosa area of the Pennine Alps. Because of its high visibility and incredible shape, it is sometimes referred to as the “Mountain of Mountains.”

Zermatt, Switzerland. Gornergrat tourist train with waterfall, bridge and Matterhorn. Valais region.

The mountain sits on the western Swiss canton of Valais, between the Swiss town of Zermatt and the Italian resort of Breuil-Cervinia. It overlooks Zermatt, creating a breathtaking backdrop to the town, which is also famous for its Alpine ski resort.

Zermatt, Switzerland. East and north faces of the Matterhorn at sunrise.

The closest mountains to Matterhorn are Picco Muzio directly to the east and Pic Tyndall directly west. Other nearby peaks include Furggen, Furgghorn, and Theodulhorn to the southeast; Punta Maria Cristina and Dent d’Hérens to the west; and Wandfluehorn to the northwest.

Matterhorn in early morning. Zermatt, Switzerland.

Countries: Italy, Switzerland

State/Province: Aosta Valley, Valais

Mountain Range: Pennine Alps

Parents: Weisshorn, Monte Rosa, Pennine Alps

Elevation: 14,692 feet / 4,478 meters

Prominence: 1,042 feet / 318 meters

First Ascent: July 14, 1865, by a team of Edward Whymper, Charles Hudson, Francis Douglas, Douglas Robert Hadow, Michel Croz, Peter Taugwalder and his son, also named Peter Taugwalder.

Fun Fact: The Matterhorn has been the inspiration for many artists, including John Ruskin. But perhaps it is familiar to many of us from the Matterhorn ride at Disneyland!

Best Time to Visit: The weather is most pleasant between the months of June and September, however if you plan on skiing in the area, then winter is the best time to visit while there’s snow.

Mountain Trails: The Hörnligrat is one of the easiest and most popular Matterhorn trails to take; it leads hikers from the town of Zermatt to Hörnli Hut at Base Camp Matterhorn. From the base camp, trekkers can take Hörnligrat to the summit, however this climb is extremely difficult and full of dangers, as much of the climb is over rocks and ice.

Matterhorn mountain near Grindjisee Lake with flowers in the foreground. Canton of Valais.

Plant Life: In the spring, beautiful wildflowers like edelweiss and glacier buttercups dot the hills of the Monte Rosa area. Conifers and larch trees are common in the Pennine Alps, and locals enjoy the fruits of fruit trees, grape vines, and blueberry bushes that grow in the lower valleys.

Animal Life: Ibex, chamois, marmots, and stoats are common in the Pennine Alps.

Bird Life: Several species of birds live in the Monte Rosa area, including the rock partridge, golden eagle, griffon vulture, peregrine falcon, hazel and black grouse, black woodpecker, and ptarmigan.

Photo Gallery

Matterhorn