Bishorn

Bishorn is a 4,153‑metre peak in the Valais Alps of Switzerland, located in the canton of Valais and forming part of the Pennine Alps near the Weisshorn and Zinal valleys. It is noted for having two summits and for being one of the more approachable alpine 4,000‑metre mountains under stable summer conditions.

The mountain’s standard ascent is a glacier route that starts from the Cabane de Tracuit at about 3,256 metres, requiring basic glacier equipment and rope techniques because of crevasse hazards. The peak is popular with mountaineers aiming to climb a 4,000‑metre summit without highly technical rock climbing, but weather and glacier conditions determine difficulty and safety.

Bishorn’s two summits - the higher west summit and a slightly lower east summit - are linked by glacier terrain and snow slopes, and the climb offers views of surrounding high Alpine peaks and valleys when conditions are clear.

• Elevation and climbing standard: At 4,153 metres, Bishorn is a popular 'four‑thousander' in the Valais Alps and is considered one of the more accessible alpine 4,000‑metre peaks when conditions and equipment are appropriate.
• Route and safety: The normal route involves glacier travel with crevasse risk; climbers typically use rope teams and stay at the Tracuit hut for acclimatisation and an early start.

What to See #

• West summit (4,153 m): West summit (main) at 4,153 metres, the standard objective for climbers, offering non‑technical glacier travel under typical summer conditions.
• Cabane de Tracuit: Cabane de Tracuit - a high mountain hut at about 3,256 metres that serves as the normal base for ascents of Bishorn and adjacent peaks.