Hiking to Col Below Platthorn (Valais region, above Zermatt)

At 9:30 the next morning, we start our hike to Platthorn. The weather is cool and windy, with fog filling the valley below us.

Mid-morning north of Trift at the intersection of the Rothornhutte trail.

Valley fog tries to lift into the mountains, but north winds soon push it down again.

Reaching a high meadow with Ober Gabelhorn and Wellenkuppe in the background.

View of 13,000+ foot peaks south of Matterhorn.

As we gain elevation, we get a better view of Matterhorn.

Our dream vacation, high in the Swiss Alps.

Nearing the top of our hike, around 10,000 feet. This will be our longest hike of the trip.

Last steep stretch to reach the col below Platthorn.

Almost to the col.

View from the col. Fierce winds keep us from completing our original destination of Platthorn. During the stronger gusts, several hikers are forced to sit down to maintain their balance on the steep trail. One gust of wind even starts a small rockslide on a nearby hillside.

View looking north across an adjacent glacier.

Leaving the col, with two friendly Brits still sitting on top. We enjoyed their company along the trail and also that evening at the mountain inn.

On our way down.

We take a loop towards the east for our hike back to Trift.

Looking behind us as we leave the main trail.

A narrow trail and steep hillsides make for a classic alpine experience (although the grass is turning brown from the cold nighttime temperatures of late September).

View towards the east.

Mid-afternoon as we descend towards Trift. Although we never feel in danger hiking in the Alps, narrow trails and steep hillsides at times require our full attention.

Final stretch to the mountain inn, which closed up the following day.