Pollux group
Pollux ascent in a group
-
Endurance
2Walking time 4-5 hours. Up to approx. 900 vertical meters. For sporty mountain hikers with good basic fitness. -
Technique
3You are practiced in 2nd degree climbing and in moderately steep terrain on rock and ice. You are familiar with crampons, ice axe and rope techniques. You have mastered combined terrain and move safely in crevasse zones and on ridges. -
Duration
approx. 8 h -
Date
Mid-March - Mid-May -
Participants
2 people
Gallery (7)
The Pollux (Italian: Punta Polluce) is the twin brother of Castor – both rise impressively in the heart of the Valais Alps. While Castor entices with snow and firn, Pollux is an alpine classic of rock and ice. We will accompany you on this varied high-altitude tour to one of the most frequently climbed 4,000-meter peaks around Zermatt – ideal as an introduction to your Matterhorn training.
Secure your spot now in our next Pollux rope team!
Highlights
Description
Our high-altitude tour begins by crossing the glaciated Breithorn plateau, which we access from the Klein Matterhorn mountain station. The view stretches far: Castor and Pollux seem within reach. After a gentle descent to the south flank of the Breithorn, we reach the base of Pollux.
The ascent starts here: depending on the conditions, we either climb through a snow couloir or traverse a snow slope to reach the southwest ridge. The ridge leads us through easy climbing sections on solid rock to a prominent corner – the crux of the tour. Thanks to fixed chains, this section is well secured and easily manageable for sure-footed alpinists.
After this passage, we reach the shoulder with the famous Madonna statue. From here, it is just a short snow slope to the summit at 4,089 m. The descent follows the same route – with fantastic views of the Western Alps and the Mattertal valley.
Program
Meeting with your local and IFMGA-certified mountain guide and the other participants at 6:30 am at the Matterhorn Express valley station (depending on the season)
Cable car ride to the Klein Matterhorn mountain station
Ascent via the southwest ridge – the Swiss normal route to the Pollux
Descent on the same route back to the Klein Matterhorn mountain station
Return journey together to Zermatt and farewell to your mountain guide
Gemeinsame Fahrt zurück nach Zermatt und Verabschiedung von deinem Bergführer
Additional costs
- Return ticket Zermatt–Klein Matterhorn: from approx. CHF 57.00.
Discount available with GA, Half-Fare Card, or Swiss Travel Pass (for more information, see Zermatt Bergbahnen AG). - Rental equipment: Between CHF 50.00 and CHF 70.00, available at a sports shop in Zermatt.
- Crampon-compatible mountaineering boots with profiled, stiff Vibram soles
- Climbing harness
- 1 carabiner
- Crampons with anti-balling plates
- ice axe
- Hiking pole
- helmet
- Backpack, approx. 30 L
- Warm weatherproof clothing
- Gloves (possibly spare gloves)
- Hat / headband
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- drinks
- Snacks (high-energy food such as chocolate, dried fruit, energy bars)
Notes
The ascent of Pollux is a longer high-altitude tour. Please let us know, when making your booking request, which 4,000-meter 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, the Alphubel, or the Riffelhorn. This also allows you to acclimatize ideally. The training tour can also be done in a group, provided another person has registered.
After booking
After booking, you will receive a confirmation by email. Please check that your details are correct.
Two days before the tour, you will receive a link to the customer portal.
Please contact us before the tour to go over the details (current weather, conditions, group size, etc.). You can reach us by phone, email or visit us at the ZERMATTERS Homebase.
The Pollux
General Information about Pollux
- Pollux stands at 4,089 m and, together with its neighboring peak Castor, forms the iconic twin mountains of the Valais Alps.
- Depending on the season, Pollux can be climbed as a standalone day tour or as part of multi-day expeditions, such as the renowned Spaghetti Tour in the Monte Rosa region.
- This high-altitude tour is an excellent preparatory climb for aspiring Matterhorn alpinists—perfect for gaining essential alpine climbing experience.
Unique Features of Pollux
- Castor and Pollux are named after the twin brothers from Greek mythology—inseparable yet distinct, just like their mountain counterparts: Castor is known for its snow and firn ascent, while Pollux is famed as a classic climbing peak.
- The rocks of Pollux are characterized by a striking blue-green hue, giving the mountain a unique appearance, in contrast to the reddish granite of Castor.
- A prominent geological boundary runs between the two peaks, marking a fascinating transition from ancient crystalline bedrock to marine sedimentary layers.
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
2Walking time 4-5 hours. Up to approx. 900 vertical meters. For sporty mountain hikers with good basic fitness. -
Technique
3You are practiced in 2nd degree climbing and in moderately steep terrain on rock and ice. You are familiar with crampons, ice axe and rope techniques. You have mastered combined terrain and move safely in crevasse zones and on ridges. -
Duration
approx. 8 h -
Date
Mid-March - Mid-May -
Participants
2 people
The Pollux (Italian: Punta Polluce) is the twin brother of Castor – both rise impressively in the heart of the Valais Alps. While Castor entices with snow and firn, Pollux is an alpine classic of rock and ice. We will accompany you on this varied high-altitude tour to one of the most frequently climbed 4,000-meter peaks around Zermatt – ideal as an introduction to your Matterhorn training.
Secure your spot now in our next Pollux rope team!
Highlights
Duration
- Ascent to the summit of Pollux (4,092 m): approx. 2.5 – 3 hours from the Klein Matterhorn station
- Descent back to the Klein Matterhorn station (3,883 m): approx. 2.5 – 3 hours
Number of Participants
The group offer requires a minimum of 2 participants. If the minimum number of participants is not reached, the tour may not take place.
Description
Our high-altitude tour begins by crossing the glaciated Breithorn plateau, which we access from the Klein Matterhorn mountain station. The view stretches far: Castor and Pollux seem within reach. After a gentle descent to the south flank of the Breithorn, we reach the base of Pollux.
The ascent starts here: depending on the conditions, we either climb through a snow couloir or traverse a snow slope to reach the southwest ridge. The ridge leads us through easy climbing sections on solid rock to a prominent corner – the crux of the tour. Thanks to fixed chains, this section is well secured and easily manageable for sure-footed alpinists.
After this passage, we reach the shoulder with the famous Madonna statue. From here, it is just a short snow slope to the summit at 4,089 m. The descent follows the same route – with fantastic views of the Western Alps and the Mattertal valley.
Program
Meeting with your local and IFMGA-certified mountain guide and the other participants at 6:30 am at the Matterhorn Express valley station (depending on the season)
Cable car ride to the Klein Matterhorn mountain station
Ascent via the southwest ridge – the Swiss normal route to the Pollux
Descent on the same route back to the Klein Matterhorn mountain station
Return journey together to Zermatt and farewell to your mountain guide
Gemeinsame Fahrt zurück nach Zermatt und Verabschiedung von deinem Bergführer
Additional costs
- Return ticket Zermatt–Klein Matterhorn: from approx. CHF 57.00.
Discount available with GA, Half-Fare Card, or Swiss Travel Pass (for more information, see Zermatt Bergbahnen AG). - Rental equipment: Between CHF 50.00 and CHF 70.00, available at a sports shop in Zermatt.
Material
So that you are well equipped for the ascent of Pollux, you should definitely have this equipment with you:
- Crampon-compatible mountaineering boots with profiled, stiff Vibram soles
- Climbing harness
- 1 carabiner
- Crampons with anti-balling plates
- ice axe
- Hiking pole
- helmet
- Backpack, approx. 30 L
- Warm weatherproof clothing
- Gloves (possibly spare gloves)
- Hat / headband
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- drinks
- Snacks (high-energy food such as chocolate, dried fruit, energy bars)
Notes
The ascent of Pollux is a longer high-altitude tour. Please let us know, when making your booking request, which 4,000-meter 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, the Alphubel, or the Riffelhorn. This also allows you to acclimatize ideally. The training tour can also be done in a group, provided another person has registered.
After booking
After booking, you will receive a confirmation by email. Please check that your details are correct.
Two days before the tour, you will receive a link to the customer portal.
Please contact us before the tour to go over the details (current weather, conditions, group size, etc.). You can reach us by phone, email or visit us at the ZERMATTERS Homebase.
The Pollux
General Information about Pollux
- Pollux stands at 4,089 m and, together with its neighboring peak Castor, forms the iconic twin mountains of the Valais Alps.
- Depending on the season, Pollux can be climbed as a standalone day tour or as part of multi-day expeditions, such as the renowned Spaghetti Tour in the Monte Rosa region.
- This high-altitude tour is an excellent preparatory climb for aspiring Matterhorn alpinists—perfect for gaining essential alpine climbing experience.
Unique Features of Pollux
- Castor and Pollux are named after the twin brothers from Greek mythology—inseparable yet distinct, just like their mountain counterparts: Castor is known for its snow and firn ascent, while Pollux is famed as a classic climbing peak.
- The rocks of Pollux are characterized by a striking blue-green hue, giving the mountain a unique appearance, in contrast to the reddish granite of Castor.
- A prominent geological boundary runs between the two peaks, marking a fascinating transition from ancient crystalline bedrock to marine sedimentary layers.
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.
