Rimpfischhorn 4199m, W-Ridge, PD II 50°

Wow! I have to admit I never thought that this rather unpopular mountain is that rich in variety. Approach through pathless boulder terrain, early fixed ropes from Pfulwe down to Längfluejoch (II-III free), and of course a long glacier hike. A diverting rocky section leads to the Rimpfischsattel (nice spot for a breakfast break after summiting!). From here alternating on short snow, rock or mixed sections. Crux is either a icy gully or a quite exposed ledge II-III (both hard to protect,  where second is the easier alternative) at the end of the steep snow field.

For a detailed report refer to hikr.org (Matze’s view well written, german only)

Second rock ledge after the Längflue glacier

At Rimpfischsattel view towards the summit

At Rimpfischsattel high above Adlerpass

First climbing section after the initial snow couloir

Mixed gully

On the summit ridge

Full wingspan on the summit ridge

Zermatt locals allready on top

Better dont fall here, about 500m above Adlerpass

Good company and new friends at the summit

View from the summit towards Strahlhorn 4190

Gipfelfoti

View over the ridge towards our next goal: Monte Rosa

Impressive view from the top

Getting ready for the crux in descension

Rope work by another party

View from the crux towars the less exposed side

The steep snow field from its top

Waiting…

and waiting

Walking section in the lowern part after the Rimpfischsattel