Barrhorn
The highest hikeable summit in the Alps: a two-day traverse from the quiet Turtmanntal via the Turtmannhütte to 3610 m and down into the Mattertal, with the Weisshorn right across the valley.
The highest hikeable peak in the Alps
The Üssers Barrhorn (3610 m) is said to be the highest summit in the Alps you can reach without a rope, crampons or any glacier gear — a three-thousander that tops out on an SAC hiking path, with the Weisshorn and the Bishorn right across the valley. Little wonder it has become a bit of a pilgrimage.
The route is a traverse. Day 1 climbs out of the Turtmanntal — one of the quietest valleys in Valais, with no ski lifts and just a handful of alps — up to the Turtmannhütte at 2519 m, perched high above the turquoise Turtmannsee. Day 2 you start early: scree and secured schrofen slopes up to the white-and-blue-marked summit ridge, over the top of the Üssers Barrhorn, then the long descent along the Barr slopes and the Jungtal down to St. Niklaus in the Mattertal. Nearly 3000 m of descent — nothing to shrug at, especially for the knees.
You need to be surefooted and comfortable with exposure — the upper section is trailless scree with chains at the awkward spots — but technically it stays hiking. The altitude and the sheer length are what set this one apart.
Tip: Book the Turtmannhütte early, it fills up. Set off in the dark on summit day to stay ahead of the afternoon thunderstorms on the ridge — and bring poles for the long descent to the Mattertal. If it is freezing, you may need crampons for the small glacier, and a bergschrund can open on the Topalihütte side where the path drops off the rocks onto the ice. Best is to call the hut for current conditions.
On my list, but not walked yet — a personal account will follow.
Cover photo: Whgler, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
