Rheinwaldhorn, Mountain summit at Grisons-Ticino border, Switzerland
The Rheinwaldhorn, also called Adula, rises to 3402 meters and marks the boundary between Grisons and Ticino. Its northern face carries a substantial glacier, while the southern side drops steeply toward Val Malvaglia in dramatic fashion.
The peak sits along ancient pathways that connected the Rhine valley in the north with Ticino in the south. For centuries, travelers and traders have crossed the surrounding alpine passes to move between these distinct regions.
People on either side of the border use different names for the peak, reflecting the languages and traditions that separate the Alpine communities living in Grisons and Ticino. This linguistic boundary makes the mountain a natural cultural meeting point between Germanic and Italian-speaking regions.
Climbers depart from Capanna Adula at 2393 meters or lower starting points, with marked routes guiding them upward. Stable weather and solid alpine experience are necessary for a safe ascent of this demanding peak.
The peak marks a major watershed dividing water that flows to entirely different seas. Rainfall on one side eventually reaches the North Sea, while water on the other side flows toward the Adriatic.
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