Matterhorn Peak stands tall at an elevation of 3,744m, a mountain that lies between Italy and Switzerland. It is one of the most prominent peaks in the Alps. The pyramid-shaped mountain is stretched towards the Monte Rosa area of the Pennine Alps. This is one of the highest summits in not only the Alps but also in all of Europe.
The four steep faces of the mountain are separated from one another by the Hörnli, Furggen, Leone/Lion, and Zmutt ridges. This mountain had been studied in the late eighteenth century by Horace-Bénédict de Saussure which was followed by famous naturalists as well as artists like John Ruskin and many others in the nineteenth century.
While the mountain is not the highest in the world, there were expeditions to different neighboring peaks to this one, but Matterhorn Peak remained unclimbed for the longest time.
There are several facts that are going to interest you about the Matterhorn Peak. Make sure to read till the end of this article to know more!
What is the origin of the name for Matterhorn Peak?
The Matterhorn Peak gets its name from the German words Matte, which means meadow, and horn, which means horn. Hence, the German name translates to the peak of the meadows. There are several other names that have been given to the mountain like Mattertal, as was printed by Sebastian Münster in 1545 on the Schalbetter map. Likewise, the Latin and other German names of the mountain are Mons Silvius and Augstalberg (in accordance with the Aosta Valley) respectively.
The French name of the mountain is Cervin, which inspires the Italian term Cervino, stretching it’s meaning to the Latin Mons Silvanus (or Mons Sylvanus). Silva means forest, but the “s” has been changed to “c” with time and translations. A Genevan geologist, Horace Bénédict de Saussure, assumed to change the letters as he associated the meaning of the word with a deer.
The name Mons Silvius was readopted through T.G. Farrinetti. Josias Simler’s hypothesis in De Alpibus Commentarius (1574) shows the evidence; “Silvius was probably a Roman leader who sojourned with his legions in the land of the Salassi and the Seduni and perhaps crossed the Theodul Pass between these two places. This Silvius may have been that same Servius Galba whom Caesar charged with the opening up of the Alpine passes, which, from that time onward, traders have been wanting to cross with great danger and grave difficulty. Servius Galba, in order to carry out Caesar’s orders, came with his legions from Allobroges (Savoy) to Octodurum (Martigny) in the Valais and pitched his camp there. The passes which he had orders to open from there could be no other than the St. Bernard, the Simplon, the Theodul, and the Moro; it, therefore, seems likely that the name of Servius, whence Silvius and later Servin, or Cervin, was given in his honor to the famous pyramid.” The name Servin then replaced Cervin.
In Valdotains, Matterhorn Peak is also known as Gran Bècca (“big mountain”). People speaking Walliser German call the peak Horu. Likewise, there are plenty of mountains in other countries that share a resemblance with Matterhorn Peak. These peaks are also referred to as “Matterhorn of(the country’s name).”
Matterhorn Peak Skiing
Skiing on Matterhorn Peak is an experience that any skier would want. The most common line for skiing activities is the Ski Dreams Couloir. The line is around 500 vertical long and 40 feet wide. You will find a parking nearby if you are to take along a vehicle. There is a great probability of the trails always having snow. Hence, make sure to take along a good, solid pair of boots and skis in your backpack. You will have to walk through the most rugged path before you finally make it to the peak.
You will find a rather difficult route that will lead you to the Matterhorn glacier. There is a small lake beneath the glacier. You have to get past the lake to finally reach the Ski Dreams Couloir. Make sure to switch to boots and a skiing costume only once you’re atop. From there, you can start skiing.
Matterhorn Peak skiing is also known as one of the most dangerous ones due to the endless snow trails and the steepness of the peak.
Matterhorn Glacier Trail
Unlike the peak itself, the Matterhorn glacier trail has different things to offer. You are likely to come with the best of both worlds including the snowy view as well as the drier trails. The glacier trail is the best for trekkers. The trail is also perfect for the life of animals and plants. You get to experience not only the most premium quality of mountain air, the beauty of the amazing and unique Matterhorn pathways, but also the lake, which is one of the major beauty-adding aspects of the peak.
Several tiny water bodies can be seen when you’re anywhere around the Matterhorn glacier trail. Likewise, you can find information panels in different languages, including German, French, Japanese, English, etc. The rock and scree landscape is a part of the older glacier of the peak. Also, there is a rare yet possible chance of coming across a historical object that is expected to be returned to the tourist office.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Is there a parking near Matterhorn Peak?
Yes, there is parking for anyone who comes to climb or ski in the Matterhorn Peak.
Which is the best line for skiing in Matterhorn Peak?
The best line for skiing in Matterhorn Peak is the Ski Dream Couloir.
What is the oldest name of Matterhorn Peak?
The oldest known name of Matterhorn Peak is Mattertal.
How difficult is it to hike through the Matterhorn Glacier trail?
It is moderately difficult to hike through the Matterhorn glacier trail.
What are the highest and lowest points of the Matterhorn Glacier trail?
The highest and lowest point of the Matterhorn Glacier trail is 2928 m and 2570 m respectively.
Also, read;
