Climb Eiger
The fact that at 3,970m, the Eiger does not qualify as a 4,000 metre peak in no way detracts from the tough challenge it presents as a climb, enhanced by its awesome Nordwand, or north face - 2,000m of near vertical ascent, and one of the ultimate goals of alpine climbing.
While avoiding the extreme climbing these mountains have to offer, you still need to be an experienced and competent climber before attempting to challenge even the easier routes on these majestic peaks.
Route Description
We prefer to climb via the Mittellegi Ridge and to descend by the West Flank. This route is exposed and requires a good standard of climbing on mixed ground. Unless you have previous alpine climbing experience, more than one preparation day with the guide beforehand is essential. You will travel by train from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg and then on to Eismeer. The trip starts with the traverse of the Fiescher Glacier followed by a series of rock ledges to the Mittellegi Refuge (3,355m). This takes approximately four to five hours.
The summit day starts at about 4am up the exposed ridge on mixed rock and snow higher up - some parts are equipped with fixed ropes. It takes four to five hours to reach the summit from the refuge. The descent of the West Flank requires caution as the rock slabs are often covered with snow or ice. Several small gullies have to be negotiated and large ledges have to be crossed. The lower section of the ridge is a mixture of scree interspersed with occasional snow slopes, leading down to the Eigergletscher Station where you catch the train back to the village.
Typical Programme
We are in the process of putting together a 4 day programme including the Jungfrau, the Monch and the Mitteleggi ridge on the Eiger. It will be live on this website in due course. We are sorry for the delay.
Trip Details
Duration: 4 Days
2008 Dates: Available as required
Group Size: 1
Ratio: 1:1
Included:tbc
Not included:tbc
Equipment: See Equipment List or contact the office
Price:tbc
For whom: Experienced climbers with a high level of fitness. We recommend that you do the Alpine Skills Course and/or the Matterhorn course first. This 4 day itinerary can also be added on to either course as an extension.
