Thermometeregg

Thermometeregg is the proudest line up the Riffelhorn. At 8 pitches, it makes for a casual day out with excellent views of the Matterhorn.

Topping out at approximately 9,600ft the route is graded 5c and I found it to be accurate. If you are not a solid leader at the grade I would not attempt it. The route is thoughtfully bolted but those bolts are at times 25ft+ or more apart. We brought only 12 draws and this is sufficient but you may bring supplemental pro for protection in-between. There is a short traverse out left just short of midway up the route to gain access to the line heading directly to the summit and route finding is easy. Bolted anchors all the way to the summit.

The descent is a combination of walk off the back and 2-3 rappels from rap anchors, depending on how much snow there is.

Overall, this is a great day out. I found the final two pitches to be enjoyable. It goes without saying that the views are spectacular as the Matterhorn looms behind you.

The route lies just south of Zermatt in the Pennine Alps. It is accessed by the mountain tram (a 20 minute ride from town and start running at 8am). The approach is casual at 25 minutes. Follow the signs and head left to skirt the peak and around the corner as the start lies on the opposite side. On the descent, face toward tram station and keep right and down until you gain the trail again.

This line is bolted thoughtfully but will test the leader if climbing at their limit due to the common runout sections. 12 draws are sufficient but you may choose to bring some small gear to protect in between (I found the yellow totem, 0.5, 0.75, and a set of nuts very helpful - MP). Anchors are found at the end of every pitch, though it may just be one monster anchor rather than 2 bolts.

The descent is a 4th class walk off the back side, and it's recommended to use the rappel rings where found to skip parts of the walkoff.