A very enjoyable physical expedition to climb one of the technically easier 4000m peaks. The Bishorn sits on the Northern Ridge of it’s mightier sibling, the Weisshorn and, in good conditions, presents a fairly straightforward glacier ascent from the Tracuit Hut.
Current conditions are fine and enjoyable with great weather for the substantial hut walk in from Zinal and some fresh snow plastering the local hills for added contrast with the lower alpine meadows, now showing the first hints of autumn.
The Tracuit Hut provides an excellent base camp for the climb with great food and good service, but, being Switzerland, it is not cheap!
There was some extensive crevassing on the glacier just above the hut but this was easily negotiated by the well beaten weekend track and we were soon engaged in the easy angled but sustained climb to reach the very short final steep summit slope, which had some exposed ice but good foot holds and from where, the summit was easily reached.
It’s a superb view point and this was well enjoyed despite the cool early autumn breeze and the thought of the 2500m descent back to Zinal!
Thus a great couple of days with a high physical component, worth being at least a bit acclimatised for, and a great flying mid-week visit for Phil from the UK to Geneva, Chamonix and into the high Swiss Alps.
