Classic Zermatt 4000ers: Castor, Pollux & Breithorn Traverse

Classic Zermatt 4000ers: Castor, Pollux & Breithorn Traverse

Three Swiss Alps classics in 3 days!

Climb the classic 4,000m peaks of Zermatt as a 3 day climb or as prep for an attempt on the Matterhorn! We offer 3 thrilling itineraries to reach the iconic summits of Breithorn (4,164 m), Castor (4,223 m), & Pollux (4,092 m) and the Riffelhorn (2,928m) above Zermatt, Switzerland. Glacier travel, snow and mixed‑rock ridge climbing, & stunning views of the Monte Rosa Massif & Matterhorn are standard. A perfect way to ascend the famous peaks of the Swiss Alps and dial your skills for the Matterhorn.

Pricing: (See Inclusions Tab for Additional Information)

  • 3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor: $3,350 USD*
  • 3 Day Matterhorn Prep: Breithorn, Pollux, Riffelhorn: $3,450 USD*
  • 4 Day Matterhorn Prep: Breithorn, Pollux, Castor, Riffelhorn: $4,550 USD*

    • Overview
    Itinerary
    Prerequisites
    Inclusions
    Gear

    Classic Zermatt 4000ers: Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor

    An unforgettable alpine adventure that links three of the most iconic 4000m peaks in the Swiss Alps with Matterhorn prep options to dial in rock skills. From the wild ridges of the Breithorn to the snow aretes of Castor and the technical rock steps of Pollux, this program delivers a perfect blend of classic alpine climbing in one of the world’s most stunning mountain arenas. Each itinerary features varied and exciting climbing with steep snow, airy ridges, and engaging rock - perfect for climbers who want the full flavor of the Alps. Whether your goal is to tick off your first 4000ers, acclimatize for a bigger climb like the Matterhorn, or simply enjoy world-class alpine routes, this program is an incredible foray into climbing in the Swiss Alps.

    See our Itinerary Tab for details on each of the options for this climb!

    *Price for payment via Zelle transfer or Check. Service fees apply for Credit Card payments.

    3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor

    This itinerary tackles 3 classic 4000m peaks in the Swiss Alps of Zermatt. From glacier climbing on Castor to the rock steps of Pollux and the wild rock and ridge climbing of the Breithorn Traverse, this itinerary packs 3 incredible climbs into 3 days. It's a perfect way to get on top of some of Switzerland's most famous peaks or acclimatize for other peaks in the area.

    Day 0 – Gear Check

    Meet your guide in Zermatt for a comprehensive gear check, trip briefing, and packing guidance. Overnight in Zermatt lodging (not included) in preparation for the climb.

    Day 1 – Pollux Ascent & Ayas Hut

    Ride the lift to Klein Matterhorn (Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, ~3,820 m). Traverse across glacial terrain and climb Pollux via its mixed snow and rock routes. Descend to the Rifugio Ayas (~3,425 m) for dinner and overnight. (H, D)

    Day 2 – Castor Ascent

    Early alpine start to ascend Castor (4,223 m) via its elegant snow ridge. Return to the Rifugio Ayas for a second night, enjoying dinner and rest at the hut. (H, D, B)

    Day 3 – Breithorn Traverse & Return

    Climb the Breithorn, choosing either the classic full traverse or the half traverse depending on conditions and team fitness. Descend back to Klein Matterhorn and take the gondola to Zermatt, concluding the trip in the village by afternoon. (B)

    3 Day Matterhorn Prep: Breithorn, Pollux, Riffelhorn

    This itinerary focuses on rock movement to help gear up for a Matterhorn attempt. It provides a day of multipitch rock on the Riffelhorn, then moves to Pollux and the Breithorn Traverse for days 2 and 3. It’s a great way to tick a couple 4000m peaks, get in a few pitches of fun rock, build acclimatization and get skills dialed for climbing the Matterhorn.

    Day 0 – Gear Check

    Meet your guide in Zermatt for a comprehensive gear check, trip briefing, and packing guidance. Overnight in Zermatt lodging (not included) in preparation for the climb.

    Day 1 – Rifelhorn Climb

    Ride the Gondola to the Riffleburg station and hike to the base of the renowned Riffelhorn. We’ll climb multiple pitches of low 5th class rock to reach the summit of the Riffelhorn with staggering views of the Matterhorn, Dufourspitze and Monte Rosa Massif.

    Day 2 – Pollux Ascent & Ayas Hut

    Ride the lift to Klein Matterhorn (Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, ~3,820 m). Traverse across glacial terrain and climb Pollux via its mixed snow and rock routes. Descend to the Rifugio Ayas (~3,425 m) for dinner and overnight. (H, D)

    Day 3 – Breithorn Traverse & Return

    Climb the Breithorn, choosing either the classic full traverse or the half traverse depending on conditions and team fitness. Descend back to Klein Matterhorn and take the gondola to Zermatt, concluding the trip in the village by afternoon. (B)

    4 Day Matterhorn Prep: Breithorn, Pollux, Castor, Riffelhorn

    Climb three 4,000m peaks with a day of multipitch rock climbing to boot! This itinerary builds solid acclimatization and tunes up rock movement skills to prepare for the Matterhorn. After a day of multipitch rock on the Riffelhorn, we move into our 3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor itinerary. This provides a lot of flexibility in the program for weather and conditions and is a ton of fun to climb all these peaks!

    Day 0 – Gear Check

    Meet your guide in Zermatt for a comprehensive gear check, trip briefing, and packing guidance. Overnight in Zermatt lodging (not included) in preparation for the climb.

    Day 1 – Rifelhorn Climb

    Ride the Gondola to the Riffleburg station and hike to the base of the renowned Riffelhorn. We’ll climb multiple pitches of low 5th class rock to reach the summit of the Riffelhorn with staggering views of the Matterhorn, Dufourspitze and Monte Rosa Massif. A truly fun day in the Swiss Alps!

    Day 2-4: 3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor Itinerary

    See Above, 3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor


    Provisions: H = Hut Provided D = Dinner Provided B = Breakfast Provided

    Here are the skills and fitness you'll need for your course:

    • Intermediate Alpine Climbing Experience - Including cramponing and ice axe techniques including self arrest practice, basic rope skills. You should feel comfortable on steep, firm slopes of 40 degrees or more.

    • Glacier Travel Experience - You should have experience on travelling on crevassed glaciers on a rope team.

    • Excellent fitness - Able to spend 12-16 continuous hours outside, moving uphill at over 1,000’ per hour for durations of 1-2 hours between breaks. Participants should be able to hike 12-15 miles, climbing 3,000-6,000 vertical feet throughout the course of the day. People with excellent fitness typically have a strenuous workout 4-6 days per week. Be ready for a difficult day in the mountains!

    • Mountaineering Gear - Come prepared with your own gear or rent from us
    Shop Recommended Gear OR Visit our Rentals Page

    Here's what's included with your trip:

    • IFMGA / UIAA Licensed Mountain Guide
    • Lift tickets for you and your guide, round trip from Zermatt
    • Lodging and Half Board at the Ayas Hut (Dinner and Breakfast)
    • Ropes & Group Climbing Gear
    Not Included
    • Bottled Water or Extra Food at Huts
    • Sleeping Bag Liner for Huts
    • Personal Climbing Gear and Layers
    • Guide Gratuities

    Huts really simplify the gear needed for alpine climbing in the Alps. Download our Matterhorn Hornli Hutte Based Alpine Climbing Gear List Here:

    🔽 Download the Matterhorn Hornli Ridge Gear List

    Download our List above for the full Matterhorn Hornli Ridge Gear List, but here are a few items to get you started:

    Mountaineering Gear

    • Light, 3 Season Mountaineering Boots
    • Ice Axe
    • Crampons
    • Climbing Harness
    • 1x LARGE Locking Carabiner (Petzl William, etc)
    • 2x Locking Carabiners (Petzl Attache, etc)
    • Adjustable Tether (Petzl Connect Adjust)
    Overnight Gear
    • Headlamp
    • Sleeping Bag Liner
    Clothing & Accessories
  • Technical Outerwear (jacket, bibs/pants)
  • Multiple Midlayer Options
  • Gloves
  • Helmet
  • Beanie
  • Baseball Cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Hydration Pack (2L) (PRACTICE USING BEFORE THE CLIMB)
  • Food- Energy Bars/Chews/Gels for energy during the climb

    • Know Before you go

    SKILL LEVELIntermediate - Expert
    ELEVATION4,092-4,223m
    LocationZermatt, Switzerland
    Price/Person $500.00
    Private Programs
    Duration: 3-4 Days
    View Full Itinerary

    PRIVATE PROGRAMS

    • Custom Scheduling: Choose your dates and plan around your availability.
    • Tailored Experiences: Itineraries and objectives are adjusted to suit your goals, experience, and fitness.
    • Cost-Effective for Most Large Groups: Private programs are typically more cost-effective for groups of 3 or more.
    • Flexibility Comes at a Price: For groups of 1-2, private programs are generally more expensive.
    • AIARE Courses: AIARE course pricing is based on a group of 6. Running these as a private program with fewer than 6 participants will increase the per-person cost.

    SCHEDULED PROGRAMS

    • Fixed Dates & Costs: Scheduled programs have set dates, itineraries, objectives, and pricing.
    • Great for Solo or Small Groups: Ideal for individuals or small groups looking to share costs with others.
    • Affordable for 1-2 People: Scheduled programs are typically less expensive for groups of 1-2.
    • Less Flexibility: Dates fill quickly, and group programs require adapting to the skill level and pace of all participants
    • Group Atmosphere: Meet others with similar interests and make some new backcountry buddies!

    Note: Any scheduled program can also be run as a private program with customized dates and rates.

    Both options offer exceptional guiding and experiences. Choose what works best for you!

    Contact us
    Full Itinerary

    3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor

    This itinerary tackles 3 classic 4000m peaks in the Swiss Alps of Zermatt. From glacier climbing on Castor to the rock steps of Pollux and the wild rock and ridge climbing of the Breithorn Traverse, this itinerary packs 3 incredible climbs into 3 days. It's a perfect way to get on top of some of Switzerland's most famous peaks or acclimatize for other peaks in the area.

    Day 0 – Gear Check

    Meet your guide in Zermatt for a comprehensive gear check, trip briefing, and packing guidance. Overnight in Zermatt lodging (not included) in preparation for the climb.

    Day 1 – Pollux Ascent & Ayas Hut

    Ride the lift to Klein Matterhorn (Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, ~3,820 m). Traverse across glacial terrain and climb Pollux via its mixed snow and rock routes. Descend to the Rifugio Ayas (~3,425 m) for dinner and overnight. (H, D)

    Day 2 – Castor Ascent

    Early alpine start to ascend Castor (4,223 m) via its elegant snow ridge. Return to the Rifugio Ayas for a second night, enjoying dinner and rest at the hut. (H, D, B)

    Day 3 – Breithorn Traverse & Return

    Climb the Breithorn, choosing either the classic full traverse or the half traverse depending on conditions and team fitness. Descend back to Klein Matterhorn and take the gondola to Zermatt, concluding the trip in the village by afternoon. (B)

    3 Day Matterhorn Prep: Breithorn, Pollux, Riffelhorn

    This itinerary focuses on rock movement to help gear up for a Matterhorn attempt. It provides a day of multipitch rock on the Riffelhorn, then moves to Pollux and the Breithorn Traverse for days 2 and 3. It’s a great way to tick a couple 4000m peaks, get in a few pitches of fun rock, build acclimatization and get skills dialed for climbing the Matterhorn.

    Day 0 – Gear Check

    Meet your guide in Zermatt for a comprehensive gear check, trip briefing, and packing guidance. Overnight in Zermatt lodging (not included) in preparation for the climb.

    Day 1 – Rifelhorn Climb

    Ride the Gondola to the Riffleburg station and hike to the base of the renowned Riffelhorn. We’ll climb multiple pitches of low 5th class rock to reach the summit of the Riffelhorn with staggering views of the Matterhorn, Dufourspitze and Monte Rosa Massif.

    Day 2 – Pollux Ascent & Ayas Hut

    Ride the lift to Klein Matterhorn (Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, ~3,820 m). Traverse across glacial terrain and climb Pollux via its mixed snow and rock routes. Descend to the Rifugio Ayas (~3,425 m) for dinner and overnight. (H, D)

    Day 3 – Breithorn Traverse & Return

    Climb the Breithorn, choosing either the classic full traverse or the half traverse depending on conditions and team fitness. Descend back to Klein Matterhorn and take the gondola to Zermatt, concluding the trip in the village by afternoon. (B)

    4 Day Matterhorn Prep: Breithorn, Pollux, Castor, Riffelhorn

    Climb three 4,000m peaks with a day of multipitch rock climbing to boot! This itinerary builds solid acclimatization and tunes up rock movement skills to prepare for the Matterhorn. After a day of multipitch rock on the Riffelhorn, we move into our 3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor itinerary. This provides a lot of flexibility in the program for weather and conditions and is a ton of fun to climb all these peaks!

    Day 0 – Gear Check

    Meet your guide in Zermatt for a comprehensive gear check, trip briefing, and packing guidance. Overnight in Zermatt lodging (not included) in preparation for the climb.

    Day 1 – Rifelhorn Climb

    Ride the Gondola to the Riffleburg station and hike to the base of the renowned Riffelhorn. We’ll climb multiple pitches of low 5th class rock to reach the summit of the Riffelhorn with staggering views of the Matterhorn, Dufourspitze and Monte Rosa Massif. A truly fun day in the Swiss Alps!

    Day 2-4: 3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor Itinerary

    See Above, 3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor


    Provisions: H = Hut Provided D = Dinner Provided B = Breakfast Provided

    Classic Zermatt 4000ers: Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor

    An unforgettable alpine adventure that links three of the most iconic 4000m peaks in the Swiss Alps with Matterhorn prep options to dial in rock skills. From the wild ridges of the Breithorn to the snow aretes of Castor and the technical rock steps of Pollux, this program delivers a perfect blend of classic alpine climbing in one of the world’s most stunning mountain arenas. Each itinerary features varied and exciting climbing with steep snow, airy ridges, and engaging rock - perfect for climbers who want the full flavor of the Alps. Whether your goal is to tick off your first 4000ers, acclimatize for a bigger climb like the Matterhorn, or simply enjoy world-class alpine routes, this program is an incredible foray into climbing in the Swiss Alps.

    See our Itinerary Tab for details on each of the options for this climb!

    *Price for payment via Zelle transfer or Check. Service fees apply for Credit Card payments.

    3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor

    This itinerary tackles 3 classic 4000m peaks in the Swiss Alps of Zermatt. From glacier climbing on Castor to the rock steps of Pollux and the wild rock and ridge climbing of the Breithorn Traverse, this itinerary packs 3 incredible climbs into 3 days. It's a perfect way to get on top of some of Switzerland's most famous peaks or acclimatize for other peaks in the area.

    Day 0 – Gear Check

    Meet your guide in Zermatt for a comprehensive gear check, trip briefing, and packing guidance. Overnight in Zermatt lodging (not included) in preparation for the climb.

    Day 1 – Pollux Ascent & Ayas Hut

    Ride the lift to Klein Matterhorn (Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, ~3,820 m). Traverse across glacial terrain and climb Pollux via its mixed snow and rock routes. Descend to the Rifugio Ayas (~3,425 m) for dinner and overnight. (H, D)

    Day 2 – Castor Ascent

    Early alpine start to ascend Castor (4,223 m) via its elegant snow ridge. Return to the Rifugio Ayas for a second night, enjoying dinner and rest at the hut. (H, D, B)

    Day 3 – Breithorn Traverse & Return

    Climb the Breithorn, choosing either the classic full traverse or the half traverse depending on conditions and team fitness. Descend back to Klein Matterhorn and take the gondola to Zermatt, concluding the trip in the village by afternoon. (B)

    3 Day Matterhorn Prep: Breithorn, Pollux, Riffelhorn

    This itinerary focuses on rock movement to help gear up for a Matterhorn attempt. It provides a day of multipitch rock on the Riffelhorn, then moves to Pollux and the Breithorn Traverse for days 2 and 3. It’s a great way to tick a couple 4000m peaks, get in a few pitches of fun rock, build acclimatization and get skills dialed for climbing the Matterhorn.

    Day 0 – Gear Check

    Meet your guide in Zermatt for a comprehensive gear check, trip briefing, and packing guidance. Overnight in Zermatt lodging (not included) in preparation for the climb.

    Day 1 – Rifelhorn Climb

    Ride the Gondola to the Riffleburg station and hike to the base of the renowned Riffelhorn. We’ll climb multiple pitches of low 5th class rock to reach the summit of the Riffelhorn with staggering views of the Matterhorn, Dufourspitze and Monte Rosa Massif.

    Day 2 – Pollux Ascent & Ayas Hut

    Ride the lift to Klein Matterhorn (Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, ~3,820 m). Traverse across glacial terrain and climb Pollux via its mixed snow and rock routes. Descend to the Rifugio Ayas (~3,425 m) for dinner and overnight. (H, D)

    Day 3 – Breithorn Traverse & Return

    Climb the Breithorn, choosing either the classic full traverse or the half traverse depending on conditions and team fitness. Descend back to Klein Matterhorn and take the gondola to Zermatt, concluding the trip in the village by afternoon. (B)

    4 Day Matterhorn Prep: Breithorn, Pollux, Castor, Riffelhorn

    Climb three 4,000m peaks with a day of multipitch rock climbing to boot! This itinerary builds solid acclimatization and tunes up rock movement skills to prepare for the Matterhorn. After a day of multipitch rock on the Riffelhorn, we move into our 3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor itinerary. This provides a lot of flexibility in the program for weather and conditions and is a ton of fun to climb all these peaks!

    Day 0 – Gear Check

    Meet your guide in Zermatt for a comprehensive gear check, trip briefing, and packing guidance. Overnight in Zermatt lodging (not included) in preparation for the climb.

    Day 1 – Rifelhorn Climb

    Ride the Gondola to the Riffleburg station and hike to the base of the renowned Riffelhorn. We’ll climb multiple pitches of low 5th class rock to reach the summit of the Riffelhorn with staggering views of the Matterhorn, Dufourspitze and Monte Rosa Massif. A truly fun day in the Swiss Alps!

    Day 2-4: 3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor Itinerary

    See Above, 3 Day Breithorn Traverse, Pollux & Castor


    Provisions: H = Hut Provided D = Dinner Provided B = Breakfast Provided

    Here are the skills and fitness you'll need for your course:

    • Intermediate Alpine Climbing Experience - Including cramponing and ice axe techniques including self arrest practice, basic rope skills. You should feel comfortable on steep, firm slopes of 40 degrees or more.

    • Glacier Travel Experience - You should have experience on travelling on crevassed glaciers on a rope team.

    • Excellent fitness - Able to spend 12-16 continuous hours outside, moving uphill at over 1,000’ per hour for durations of 1-2 hours between breaks. Participants should be able to hike 12-15 miles, climbing 3,000-6,000 vertical feet throughout the course of the day. People with excellent fitness typically have a strenuous workout 4-6 days per week. Be ready for a difficult day in the mountains!

    • Mountaineering Gear - Come prepared with your own gear or rent from us
    Shop Recommended Gear OR Visit our Rentals Page

    Here's what's included with your trip:

    • IFMGA / UIAA Licensed Mountain Guide
    • Lift tickets for you and your guide, round trip from Zermatt
    • Lodging and Half Board at the Ayas Hut (Dinner and Breakfast)
    • Ropes & Group Climbing Gear
    Not Included
    • Bottled Water or Extra Food at Huts
    • Sleeping Bag Liner for Huts
    • Personal Climbing Gear and Layers
    • Guide Gratuities

    Huts really simplify the gear needed for alpine climbing in the Alps. Download our Matterhorn Hornli Hutte Based Alpine Climbing Gear List Here:

    🔽 Download the Matterhorn Hornli Ridge Gear List

    Download our List above for the full Matterhorn Hornli Ridge Gear List, but here are a few items to get you started:

    Mountaineering Gear

    • Light, 3 Season Mountaineering Boots
    • Ice Axe
    • Crampons
    • Climbing Harness
    • 1x LARGE Locking Carabiner (Petzl William, etc)
    • 2x Locking Carabiners (Petzl Attache, etc)
    • Adjustable Tether (Petzl Connect Adjust)
    Overnight Gear
    • Headlamp
    • Sleeping Bag Liner
    Clothing & Accessories
  • Technical Outerwear (jacket, bibs/pants)
  • Multiple Midlayer Options
  • Gloves
  • Helmet
  • Beanie
  • Baseball Cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Hydration Pack (2L) (PRACTICE USING BEFORE THE CLIMB)
  • Food- Energy Bars/Chews/Gels for energy during the climb

    • Book Now
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    Classic Zermatt 4000ers: Castor, Pollux & Breithorn Traverse
    Classic Zermatt 4000ers: Castor, Pollux & Breithorn Traverse
    Classic Zermatt 4000ers: Castor, Pollux & Breithorn Traverse
    Classic Zermatt 4000ers: Castor, Pollux & Breithorn Traverse
    Classic Zermatt 4000ers: Castor, Pollux & Breithorn Traverse
    Classic Zermatt 4000ers: Castor, Pollux & Breithorn Traverse

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