Dent Blanche Mountain

Dent Blanche is a major Alpine peak in the Pennine Alps, located in the canton of Valais, Switzerland, and rises to 4,357 metres above sea level. It is one of the higher and more prominent summits in the Valais Alps.

The mountain is best known to alpinists for its four steep ridges and classic mountaineering routes that combine glacier travel and technical rock climbing. Views from and of Dent Blanche are sought after by climbers and photographers for its distinctive pyramidal profile.

Dent Blanche has been part of the history of Alpine mountaineering since the 19th century, when the high peaks of the Pennine Alps were first explored and climbed during the Golden Age of Alpinism. Its routes have been developed and maintained by generations of climbers.

The peak sits in Valais, Switzerland, in the same general region as other high Pennine summits; it overlooks valleys in the Valais Alps and is accessible from mountain bases and huts in surrounding valleys.

• Elevation: Summit elevation is 4,357 metres, making it one of the principal four-thousand-metre peaks of the Pennine Alps.
• Climbing character: Climbing routes involve glacier travel and exposed rock ridges, typically attempted by experienced mountaineers with alpine equipment.

• Dent Blanche is a high, technical alpine summit requiring glacier travel and exposed climbing-only attempt with an experienced IFMGA/UIAGM-certified guide and the proper rope, crampon and ice-axe skills.
• Plan climbs in the main Alpine season (summer months) when routes are most stable and huts/guide services operate; check local guide services in Zinal and Zermatt for current conditions and route options.
• Treat the approach as a mountaineering expedition: allow time for acclimatization, reserve any mountain hut in advance, and confirm current route conditions with your guide prior to ascent.