Dom
Mountain tour to the Dom
-
Endurance
5Hiking Time: more than 10 hours. Over 1800 vertical meters. Long, demanding tours for top-trained and high alpine guests. -
Technik
3You're skilled in climbing at grade II and navigating moderately steep terrain on rock and ice. You are confident using crampons, ice axe, and rope techniques. You’ve already completed tours on mixed terrain and feel safe around crevasses and ridges. -
Duration
approx. 11 h -
Date
Mid-July - Mid-September -
Participants
1 - 2 persons
Gallery (11)
At 4,545 m, the Dom is the highest mountain to be found entirely on Swiss soil - a true king among the four-thousand-metre peaks. Our guided high-altitude tour takes you over the impressive northern flank to this majestic peak - accompanied by experienced ZERMATTERS mountain guides, spectacular views and an ascent that is an adventure in itself.
Highlights
Description
The tour starts at the Domhütte (2,940 m), which you reach individually the day before. We set off early in the morning with headlamps and crampons across the moraine towards the Festi Glacier. After a steady ascent, we reach the Festijoch, where a secured climbing passage forms the transition to the Hobärg Glacier.
From there, the long, steady ascent through the northern flank of the dome begins. Step by step, you gain height until you reach the pre-summit. Now it's not far - you balance over the airy ridge to the highest point: the summit of the Dom at 4,545 m. The panorama? Unforgettable.
The descent follows the same route - with new perspectives and a deep sense of fulfillment.
Program
Day 1: Individual ascent to the Domhütte
- Train journey to Randa
- Hike from Randa railway station via Charles Kuonen suspension bridge to the Domhütte
- Meeting point with your IFMGA-certified mountain guide approx. 18:00 at the hut
Day 2: Ascent of the Dom
- Individual breakfast at the hut
- Start around 03:30 with your private mountain guide
- Ascent via Festijoch and north flank to the Dom
- Summit experience at 4,545 m
- Descent to the Dom hut, farewell
- Individual return journey to Randa
«Those who climb the Dom return not only with meters of altitude, but with awe in their hearts.»
Renato Schaller
ZERMATTERS mountain guide & former hut warden Dom hut
«The ascent of the Dom is more than an alpine tour, it is a silent struggle with altitude, ice, and one’s own willpower. The long glacier approach demands endurance, focus, and deep respect for nature. Carrying the statue from the summit cross to the Dom Hut after it was struck by lightning was not just a physical task, but also a quiet gesture of connection with this mountain.»
- Crampon compatible mountain shoes with a rigid Vibram sole
- Harness
- 1 carabiner
- Crampons with anti-balling plates
- Ice axe (for the Matterhorn: depending on the conditions)
- Hiking pole
- Helmet
- Backpack, approx. 30 l
- Warm and weatherproof clothes
- Finger gloves (evtl.changing gloves)
- Beanie / headband
- Sunglasses and sun protection
- Headlamp
- Drinks
- Energetic snacks (high energy foods such as chocolate, dried fruit etc.)
- Washing kit
- Few changing clothes
- Bandades
- Small personal pharmacy
- Innenliner (mandatory)
- Money, passport
Notes
The ascent of the Dom is a long high-altitude tour. When making your booking inquiry, please let us know which four-thousand-metre peaks you have already climbed and what other mountaineering experience you have.
We recommend that you prepare for the challenge in advance with a guided training tour with us - for example on the Breithorn normal route or on the Alphubel or Castor. This is also an ideal way to acclimatize. This can also be done in a group, provided another person has registered for it.
The cathedral
General information about the Dom
- The normal route is an almost pure glacier and firn tour - technically moderate, but demanding in terms of fitness.
- From the Domhütte, there are around 1,600 meters of ascent and around 3,100 meters of descent to Randa on the summit day.
Special features of the Dom
- At 4,545 m, the Dom is the highest mountain entirely in Switzerland - majestic, mighty, mythical.
- The traverse from the Täschhorn to the Dom is one of the greatest ridge tours in the Alps - a destination for extremely experienced alpinists.
Do I need a mountain guide for a high-altitude tour?
Yes, especially for beginners, the company of a certified mountain guide is highly recommended. Alpine tours often lead over glaciers with crevasses, steep firn flanks and exposed ridges. An experienced guide not only ensures safety, but also imparts valuable knowledge about technique, route selection and alpine dangers.
What advantages does a local mountain guide offer?
A local mountain guide knows the specific conditions of the region, such as weather conditions, glacier conditions and current route conditions. This expertise enables flexible tour planning and increases safety. In addition, a local guide enriches the experience with background information on the local mountains and culture.
What should I look out for when booking a mountain guide?
Make sure that your mountain guide is certified according to the standards of the International Union of Mountain Guide Associations (UIAGM/IFMGA). This certification guarantees comprehensive training and compliance with the highest safety standards. All ZERMATTERS mountain guides are trained according to these international guidelines.
What levels of difficulty are alpine tours divided into?
Alpine tours are rated according to the SAC mountain and alpine tour scale, which ranges from L (easy) to EX (extremely difficult). The French designations range from F (facile) to ED (extrêmement difficile). These classifications take into account the technical requirements, length of the tour and objective dangers.
What equipment do I need for an alpine tour?
The equipment required varies depending on the alpine tour and can be viewed directly on the equipment list for the respective ski tour.
In general, the standard equipment for an alpine tour includes
- Crampon-proof mountain boots
- Crampons
- Ice axe
- Climbing harness
- Rope (depending on tour type and group size)
- Carabiners and slings
- helmet
- Warm, weatherproof clothing
- Sunglasses and sun protection
- First aid kit
- Map, compass or GPS device
When will a decision be made on the implementation of the high tour?
The final decision on whether to go ahead with an alpine tour is usually made 48 hours (sometimes only 24 hours) before the start of the tour, based on current weather and route conditions. You will be informed by us as early as possible about possible changes or cancellations.
How do I choose the right high-altitude tour for my ability?
The choice of an alpine tour should always be based on your personal ability and alpine experience. A gradual progression - from shorter to longer tours, from easy to technically more demanding - is advisable. Our mountain guides are happy to accompany you on this path and support you in your alpine development
Our offers are therefore provided with clear information on the level of difficulty, required stamina and technique to help you make the right decision. We are happy to provide you with personal advice directly. Come and visit us at the home base!
How can I best prepare myself for a high-altitude tour?
Good preparation is the key to a safe and enjoyable high-altitude experience. Regular endurance training - such as hiking, running or cycling - not only improves your fitness, but also your resilience at high altitudes. Technique training is just as important: you need to practise using crampons and ice axes to be able to move safely in the terrain. If you also attend alpine courses, study maps and familiarize yourself with meteorology and alpine dangers, you will have a solid foundation for making independent decisions in the mountains. Our mountain guides will not only support you along the way, but will also be happy to give you tips on how best to prepare - so that your alpine tour with ZERMATTERS is an unforgettable experience.
How difficult are alpine tours and how are they classified?
Alpine tours can be divided into seven main levels of difficulty according to the SAC Alpine Touring Scale:
- L: Easy
- WS: Not very difficult
- ZS: Fairly difficult
- S: Difficult
- SS: Very difficult
- AS: Extremely Difficult
- EX: Extremely difficult
Some of these grades can be additionally refined by a minus (-) or plus (+) to allow even more precise grading.
The rating is based on main criteria such as steepness, exposure, technical requirements and type of terrain (e.g. firn, ice, rock or glacier). Auxiliary criteria such as objective hazards, retreat options and seriousness of the route are also taken into account.
What happens if I don't meet the requirements for a tour?
Our mountain guides not only have a lot of experience, but also pay attention to the difficulty level of the tour when assessing it. At the same time, they decide on site whether the tour can be carried out as planned. If you do not meet the requirements and this compromises safety or the course of the tour, the tour may have to be adjusted or terminated prematurely. This decision is always made in the interests of the safety of everyone involved.
By the way, with a private mountain guide you are more flexible and can adjust the pace and route individually.
-
Endurance
5Hiking Time: more than 10 hours. Over 1800 vertical meters. Long, demanding tours for top-trained and high alpine guests. -
Technik
3You're skilled in climbing at grade II and navigating moderately steep terrain on rock and ice. You are confident using crampons, ice axe, and rope techniques. You’ve already completed tours on mixed terrain and feel safe around crevasses and ridges. -
Duration
approx. 11 h -
Date
Mid-July - Mid-September -
Participants
1 - 2 persons
At 4,545 m, the Dom is the highest mountain to be found entirely on Swiss soil - a true king among the four-thousand-metre peaks. Our guided high-altitude tour takes you over the impressive northern flank to this majestic peak - accompanied by experienced ZERMATTERS mountain guides, spectacular views and an ascent that is an adventure in itself.
Highlights
Duration
- Ascent to the summit of the Dom (4,545 m): approx. 5 - 6 hours from the Domhütte
- Descent back to the Domhütte (2,940 m): approx. 5 hours
Description
The tour starts at the Domhütte (2,940 m), which you reach individually the day before. We set off early in the morning with headlamps and crampons across the moraine towards the Festi Glacier. After a steady ascent, we reach the Festijoch, where a secured climbing passage forms the transition to the Hobärg Glacier.
From there, the long, steady ascent through the northern flank of the dome begins. Step by step, you gain height until you reach the pre-summit. Now it's not far - you balance over the airy ridge to the highest point: the summit of the Dom at 4,545 m. The panorama? Unforgettable.
The descent follows the same route - with new perspectives and a deep sense of fulfillment.
Program
Day 1: Individual ascent to the Domhütte
- Train journey to Randa
- Hike from Randa railway station via Charles Kuonen suspension bridge to the Domhütte
- Meeting point with your IFMGA-certified mountain guide approx. 18:00 at the hut
Day 2: Ascent of the Dom
- Individual breakfast at the hut
- Start around 03:30 with your private mountain guide
- Ascent via Festijoch and north flank to the Dom
- Summit experience at 4,545 m
- Descent to the Dom hut, farewell
- Individual return journey to Randa
«Those who climb the Dom return not only with meters of altitude, but with awe in their hearts.»
Renato Schaller
ZERMATTERS mountain guide & former hut warden Dom hut
«The ascent of the Dom is more than an alpine tour, it is a silent struggle with altitude, ice, and one’s own willpower. The long glacier approach demands endurance, focus, and deep respect for nature. Carrying the statue from the summit cross to the Dom Hut after it was struck by lightning was not just a physical task, but also a quiet gesture of connection with this mountain.»
Additional costs
- Overnight stay and half board in the Domhütte for you and your mountain guide: from approx. CHF 80.00 per person
- Train journey Zermatt - Randa return: from approx. CHF 14.80
- Rental equipment: between CHF 50.00 and CHF 70.00, available in a sports store in Zermatt
Material
So that you are well equipped for the ascent of the cathedral, you should definitely have this equipment with you:
- Crampon compatible mountain shoes with a rigid Vibram sole
- Harness
- 1 carabiner
- Crampons with anti-balling plates
- Ice axe (for the Matterhorn: depending on the conditions)
- Hiking pole
- Helmet
- Backpack, approx. 30 l
- Warm and weatherproof clothes
- Finger gloves (evtl.changing gloves)
- Beanie / headband
- Sunglasses and sun protection
- Headlamp
- Drinks
- Energetic snacks (high energy foods such as chocolate, dried fruit etc.)
- Washing kit
- Few changing clothes
- Bandades
- Small personal pharmacy
- Innenliner (mandatory)
- Money, passport
Notes
The ascent of the Dom is a long high-altitude tour. When making your booking inquiry, please let us know which four-thousand-metre peaks you have already climbed and what other mountaineering experience you have.
We recommend that you prepare for the challenge in advance with a guided training tour with us - for example on the Breithorn normal route or on the Alphubel or Castor. This is also an ideal way to acclimatize. This can also be done in a group, provided another person has registered for it.
The cathedral
General information about the Dom
- The normal route is an almost pure glacier and firn tour - technically moderate, but demanding in terms of fitness.
- From the Domhütte, there are around 1,600 meters of ascent and around 3,100 meters of descent to Randa on the summit day.
Special features of the Dom
- At 4,545 m, the Dom is the highest mountain entirely in Switzerland - majestic, mighty, mythical.
- The traverse from the Täschhorn to the Dom is one of the greatest ridge tours in the Alps - a destination for extremely experienced alpinists.
Do I need a mountain guide for a high-altitude tour?
Yes, especially for beginners, the company of a certified mountain guide is highly recommended. Alpine tours often lead over glaciers with crevasses, steep firn flanks and exposed ridges. An experienced guide not only ensures safety, but also imparts valuable knowledge about technique, route selection and alpine dangers.
What advantages does a local mountain guide offer?
A local mountain guide knows the specific conditions of the region, such as weather conditions, glacier conditions and current route conditions. This expertise enables flexible tour planning and increases safety. In addition, a local guide enriches the experience with background information on the local mountains and culture.
What should I look out for when booking a mountain guide?
Make sure that your mountain guide is certified according to the standards of the International Union of Mountain Guide Associations (UIAGM/IFMGA). This certification guarantees comprehensive training and compliance with the highest safety standards. All ZERMATTERS mountain guides are trained according to these international guidelines.
What levels of difficulty are alpine tours divided into?
Alpine tours are rated according to the SAC mountain and alpine tour scale, which ranges from L (easy) to EX (extremely difficult). The French designations range from F (facile) to ED (extrêmement difficile). These classifications take into account the technical requirements, length of the tour and objective dangers.
What equipment do I need for an alpine tour?
The equipment required varies depending on the alpine tour and can be viewed directly on the equipment list for the respective ski tour.
In general, the standard equipment for an alpine tour includes
- Crampon-proof mountain boots
- Crampons
- Ice axe
- Climbing harness
- Rope (depending on tour type and group size)
- Carabiners and slings
- helmet
- Warm, weatherproof clothing
- Sunglasses and sun protection
- First aid kit
- Map, compass or GPS device
When will a decision be made on the implementation of the high tour?
The final decision on whether to go ahead with an alpine tour is usually made 48 hours (sometimes only 24 hours) before the start of the tour, based on current weather and route conditions. You will be informed by us as early as possible about possible changes or cancellations.
How do I choose the right high-altitude tour for my ability?
The choice of an alpine tour should always be based on your personal ability and alpine experience. A gradual progression - from shorter to longer tours, from easy to technically more demanding - is advisable. Our mountain guides are happy to accompany you on this path and support you in your alpine development
Our offers are therefore provided with clear information on the level of difficulty, required stamina and technique to help you make the right decision. We are happy to provide you with personal advice directly. Come and visit us at the home base!
How can I best prepare myself for a high-altitude tour?
Good preparation is the key to a safe and enjoyable high-altitude experience. Regular endurance training - such as hiking, running or cycling - not only improves your fitness, but also your resilience at high altitudes. Technique training is just as important: you need to practise using crampons and ice axes to be able to move safely in the terrain. If you also attend alpine courses, study maps and familiarize yourself with meteorology and alpine dangers, you will have a solid foundation for making independent decisions in the mountains. Our mountain guides will not only support you along the way, but will also be happy to give you tips on how best to prepare - so that your alpine tour with ZERMATTERS is an unforgettable experience.
How difficult are alpine tours and how are they classified?
Alpine tours can be divided into seven main levels of difficulty according to the SAC Alpine Touring Scale:
- L: Easy
- WS: Not very difficult
- ZS: Fairly difficult
- S: Difficult
- SS: Very difficult
- AS: Extremely Difficult
- EX: Extremely difficult
Some of these grades can be additionally refined by a minus (-) or plus (+) to allow even more precise grading.
The rating is based on main criteria such as steepness, exposure, technical requirements and type of terrain (e.g. firn, ice, rock or glacier). Auxiliary criteria such as objective hazards, retreat options and seriousness of the route are also taken into account.
What happens if I don't meet the requirements for a tour?
Our mountain guides not only have a lot of experience, but also pay attention to the difficulty level of the tour when assessing it. At the same time, they decide on site whether the tour can be carried out as planned. If you do not meet the requirements and this compromises safety or the course of the tour, the tour may have to be adjusted or terminated prematurely. This decision is always made in the interests of the safety of everyone involved.
By the way, with a private mountain guide you are more flexible and can adjust the pace and route individually.
