Monte Leone
Mountain Alpine peak on Swiss-Italian border in Valais
A 3,500‑plus‑metre Alpine massif on the Swiss‑Italian border in Valais; mountaineers attempt its glaciated ridges while nearby valleys offer hut‑to‑hut routes and seasonal ski touring.
Monte Leone is a high Alpine peak in the Lepontine Alps, located in the Valais region of Switzerland near the Swiss-Italian border, with an elevation of about 3,553 metres. It is the highest point of the Monte Leone massif and a prominent summit above the Simplon area.
The mountain is known for steep faces and glaciated approaches in its higher sections and is a target for mountaineers operating from the Simplon Pass and surrounding valleys. Ascents require alpine experience and appropriate equipment.
The massif forms part of the high alpine landscape between the canton of Valais and Piedmont in Italy, giving it prominent local relief and visibility from valley approaches.
Monte Leone sits above the Simplon region in southern Valais, close to the Simplon Pass road and rail links that cross between Switzerland and Italy.
- Elevation: Summit elevation is 3,553 metres, making it one of the highest peaks in the Lepontine Alps and dominant above the Simplon region.
How to Get to Monte Leone #
Monte Leone sits on the Swiss-Italian border in the Simplon region. The usual approach is via the Simplon Pass area: drive from Brig (Valais) or from Domodossola (Italy) onto the Simplon road and use the local trailheads in the pass or adjacent valleys to begin mountain routes. Brig is the nearest major rail hub; from there local roads lead to the Simplon Pass where hiking routes up Monte Leone start (alpine equipment and route planning are required).
Tips for Visiting Monte Leone #
- Attempt Monte Leone in the stable summer months (July-September) when snow and glacier hazards are reduced and high-alpine huts are operating.
- Access is commonly made from the Simplon Pass area; if you plan to use a mountain hut or bivouac book it ahead of the main season and confirm approach routes from the Swiss or Italian side.
- The upper slopes can include glacier or snow sections depending on the year-only attempt the summit with proper alpine equipment or with a certified guide.
Best Time to Visit Monte Leone #
Visit in mid to late summer (July-September) for the most reliable access for hiking and climbing.
Weather & Climate near Monte Leone #
Monte Leone's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -13°C to 6°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is freezing with highs of -7°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -8°C and lows of -13°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is the coldest month with highs of -8°C and lows of -13°C. The wettest month with 47 mm of rain, partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is freezing with highs of -7°C and lows of -11°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -7°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with 47 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (41 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -9°C. Moderate rainfall (38 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -11°C. Moderate rainfall (33 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
