Trifthorn, Alpine summit in Valais, Switzerland

The Trifthorn is a 3,728 m mountain in the Swiss Pennine Alps, west of Zermatt in the canton of Valais. Its summit lies on the ridge connecting the Ober Gabelhorn with the Zinalrothorn, separating the Mattertal from the Val d'Anniviers. The Wellenkuppe stands between the Trifthorn and the Ober Gabelhorn.

The peak formed when the African and European continental plates collided during Alpine mountain building. This geological process shaped the Valais Alps landscape millions of years ago.

The Trifthorn lies on the ridge that separates the Mattertal, the valley of Zermatt, from the Val d'Anniviers. Between the Trifthorn and the Ober Gabelhorn stands the Wellenkuppe, a named point on the same crest. The German name combines Trift, a high pasture, with Horn, a peak.

The best season for climbing is summer when weather conditions are more stable. Beginners should consider hiring a guide to navigate the technical sections safely.

The Trifthorn is not isolated: it sits on the ridge linking the Zinalrothorn with the Ober Gabelhorn, and the Wellenkuppe rises between it and the Ober Gabelhorn. The same crest separates the Mattertal, the valley of Zermatt, from the Val d'Anniviers.