ザンクトニクラウスのおすすめ登山＆山歩きルート

The ascent to the Festijoch, the pass from the Festi Glacier to the Hohberg Glacier, involves 100 meters of easy to moderately difficult climbing (grade II). Magnificent glacial scenery surrounds the area. It is the most challenging section of the standard route to the Dom.

Possibility to stop for refreshments and overnight stays on the ascent or descent from the Domhütte... in reality, you usually just drink a beer and continue on - as in our case (climbing the Dom in August 2025).

At the Festijoch, the route from the Domhütte to the summit of the Dom forks into the normal route through the mountain's glacier flank and the Festigrat. Those in good shape choose the former, while those with a keen climbing aptitude choose the latter. Whichever you choose, you still have to climb, namely up the steep rock face of the pass. In our case, there were no fixed ropes (the route changes every year, as everything falls apart), but the climbing isn't too demanding. Be careful not to dislodge any rocks (so start early so you're ideally the first to climb through). On the descent, abseil (bolts are available, but you'll have to search a bit for the belays) or let the mountain guide lower you.

The summit tour to the Dom starts in Randa in the Matter Valley. Parking is available in the village (e.g., in the parking garage at the train station) and there's the opportunity to refill your water supplies before the strenuous climb to the Domhütte.

Stone towers are often erected in the mountains as additional signposts or orientation points. Here in the forest, right next to the hiking trail, they hardly serve that function. Instead, there are a whole bunch of them, which is quite amusing to look at.

Switzerland's highest hikeable peak. It's truly worth it!

At just over 3,100 meters, the Little Bigerhorn is significantly lower than its larger brother. However, it's easily accessible on the ascent or descent, requiring only a few additional meters.

The Mischabelhütte, built at an altitude of 3,340 meters, is the third highest hut in Switzerland and the starting point for the high peaks of the Mischabels and Nadelgrat. Located between the Hohbalm and Fall glaciers, it is visible from Saas Fee and virtually the entire route. The guidebook and photos are available at: https://treksrandos.fr/alpes/valais/alpes-pennines/mischabelhutte/