Overview
The upper part of the route
The NW-Flank is considered the normal route on the Doldenhorn. It is included as one of the one hundred finest routes in the Berner Oberland in BERNER OBERLAND Die 100 schönsten Touren by Hans Grossen.
Though it does not include any technical climbing, the route does involve glacier travel and slopes up to 45 degrees. The final narrow snow crest to the summit is particularly nice and certainly requires some attention.
In the late winter and spring, the lower parts of the route are a very popular ski ascent with the final bit to the top done without skis.
Approach
Doldenhorn Hut
The NW-Flank is climbed from
Kandersteg by way of the
Doldenhorn Hut.
Signs and a good trail lead from the village to the hut. About 750 m vertical gain - two and a half to three hours.
Route Description
Doldenhorn from the north showing the route and winter variation.
From the Doldenhornhütte, a track leads upward through meadows and talus fields to the base of the Spitzer Stein (Point 2829 m) a large very distinctive leaning rock tower.
From the Spitzer Stein, a blocky crest (snow covered in early season) is followed to a snow ramp leading on to the glacier.
Spitzer Stein to the Glacier:
Ascend the glacier to the saddle between the Gross and Klein Doldenhorn and from here follow the gradually narrowing snow ridge to the summit.
On the glacier and final crest:
On the glacier | On the glacier - May | Final crest | Final crest |
Essential Gear
Ice axe, crampons, normal glacier travel gear