Lyskamm

Lyskamm is a prominent mountain massif in the eastern Monte Rosa group of the Pennine Alps, straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy. It is renowned for its distinctive, long, and snow-covered ridge. The massif is composed of two main peaks: the higher summit, Lyskamm Oriental (East Lyskamm), reaching an elevation of 4,527 meters (14,852 feet), and the slightly lower Lyskamm Occidental (West Lyskamm), at 4,479 meters (14,695 feet).

The summit ridge of Lyskamm is particularly famous for its knife-edge sections and the considerable risk of avalanches, which has historically made ascents challenging and dangerous. The mountain is primarily composed of gneiss. Its immense ice cap and glaciers contribute significantly to the glaciological study of the region.

The first ascent of the higher East Lyskamm was achieved in 1861 by an expedition led by Julian Keay, including Alpine guides Peter Perren and Daniel. The West Lyskamm was first climbed in 1864. Due to its challenging nature and the significant objective dangers, Lyskamm is typically attempted by experienced mountaineers. The closest major settlement in Switzerland is Zermatt, while in Italy, it is the town of Gressoney-La-Trinité. The mountain offers spectacular views of the surrounding Monte Rosa massif and the Matterhorn.