Climbing · Worth knowing

The Riffelhorn above Zermatt offers guided group training sessions for climbers preparing to ascend the Matterhorn, running daily from June to October with approximately 5 hours of technique refinement under mountain guide coaching. Participants work on surefootedness, rope handling, and self-confidence in alpine terrain using realistic equipment and conditions, with sessions covering up to 900 vertical meters and requiring a minimum fitness level suitable for sporty mountain hikers.

Dylan Chuat achieved the first ascent of Big Nose (8C) in Fionnay after extensive cleaning and method research with Clément Lechaptois. Chuat described the route as one of the most beautiful lines in the area, featuring impressive moves and exceptional holds, and noted that the final crux is highly condition-dependent, suggesting the grade may feel harder in colder conditions. He also repeated Compass North (8B+) in the same area, adding to a strong spring that included his first 9a+ ascent earlier in the season.

Route setting has significantly impacted head setter Karlo King's climbing performance and technique development. Working as a setter at climbing gyms in British Columbia has made him feel "the strongest I have ever been" due to the constant physical demands of forerunning routes, hauling holds and volumes, and setting problems that often exceed his climbing limit—essentially providing built-in weekly training. Beyond strength gains, setting has sharpened his climbing intelligence and technical understanding; King now consciously visualizes and remembers movement sequences rather than relying on repeated physical attempts, a skill he developed by paying close attention while forerunning routes and collaborating with experienced setters. However, the job demands careful load management, including monitoring skin condition, timing rest days strategically around setting schedules, and implementing injury prevention work to manage tendonitis developing in elbows and shoulders from the repetitive drilling and pushing required of the role.