Western Lyskamm

Western Lyskamm is a 4,479-meter peak straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy in the Valais region. The mountain rises with steep ice faces on its northern side overlooking the Grenz glacier.

The first ascent of the peak occurred on August 16, 1864, when Sir Leslie Stephen and Edward N. Buxton reached the summit. This climb was part of the early exploration of the highest mountains in the Alps during the 19th century.

The mountain forms part of the larger Lyskamm range, which local residents named after the Lys River flowing from its glacial formations.

Climbers reach the peak via established routes starting from the Gnifetti Hut or the Monte Rosa Hut, mostly during the summer climbing season. Mountaineers should prepare for alpine conditions including snow slopes and ice sections along the way.

A notable feature is the roughly one-kilometer ridge connecting this summit to an adjacent peak, which displays numerous snow cornices. These formations shift with the seasons, making the traverse technically demanding for those crossing it.

Location: Valais

Elevation above the sea: 4,479 m

GPS coordinates: 45.92648,7.82325

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:06