Bishorn

On September 5, 2023, I met Jonas at the Sierre train station in Wallis at 9:45 AM. Our original plan to climb Dent d’Herens had to be abandoned due to the recent heavy snowfall. We quickly decided to set our sights on Bishorn, a 4,153-meter-high peak. Bishorn is known for being a relatively easy climb while offering magnificent views. The journey to the hut was going to be quite long since there are no lifts in Val d’Anniviers. Jonas suggested a longer hike to the hut as arriving too early wasn’t ideal.

Around 11 AM, we disembarked from the bus in Zinal and began our trek into the valley. After some time, we reached a bridge where Jonas noticed a steeper path on his app. We decided to take it, and it indeed turned out to be quite steep. Approximately halfway, we encountered a sign indicating that the path would become challenging. It turned out that chains were installed to assist in climbing a rocky section. After this adventure, we continued along the regular hiking path, which led us to a marvelous viewpoint of “La Couronne Impériale,” the Imperial Crown. This is the collective name for a set of towering peaks that encircle the valley. Weisshorn, Zinalrothorn, and Dent Blanche, all magnificent 4,000-meter peaks, were part of this awe-inspiring panorama. We took a well-deserved break here, relishing the view.

After our break, we continued our journey and reached Lac d’Arpitettaz, a beautiful mountain lake. Three women were swimming in the lake, showing how good life can be in the mountains. Jonas took a dip in the icy water, while I chose to sit by the shore and enjoy the scene. Following our refreshing break, we continued our hike to the hut, Cabane d’Arpitettaz, perched at an altitude of 2,786 meters. This hut is located in a stunning setting, surrounded by vast glaciers and towering mountain peaks, offering breathtaking views.

After having lunch and taking in the magnificent surroundings, we resumed our trek. We ascended a moraine towards Col de Milon, reaching 2,975 meters. The combination of heat, a heavy backpack, and the fact that I had traveled from the Netherlands the day before started to take a toll. It was surprisingly warm, around 25 degrees Celsius, at an altitude of almost 3,000 meters. Upon reaching the col, we could see Cabane du Tracuit on the other side of a mountain valley at an altitude of 3,256 meters. Descending via chains through rocks and snow, we crossed the valley towards our goal. From here, the ascent was steep once again, and I started to feel the strain. The heat, the long hike, and the effects of high altitude all contributed to my fatigue. Jonas, an experienced mountain leader who practically sleeps in huts, was ahead. He’s accustomed to this almost daily routine.

I reached the hut a bit later, and we had achieved the goal of the day. Cabane du Tracuit is a modern hut with large windows in the dining area, offering a fantastic view. After dinner, we enjoyed a stunning sunset before getting some rest. We had to rise early for breakfast at 5 AM.