Just Glad to Be Alive: Zermatt's Oberrothorn Traverse
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 20 ก.ย. 2023
- One glorious day hiking in Zermatt, Switzerland, we decided to create our very own traverse in the Oberrothorn / Blauherd / Sunnegga region. What started as a spectacular day of frolicking amongst the glaciers, peaks and meadows along the Zermatt hiking trails quickly turned into an epic and heart-pounding scramble along a steep knife edge overlooking the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. While we don't recommend the traverse for reasons that will become obvious, the climb up to Oberrothorn is seriously Switzerland hiking at its very finest!
To be clear, a lot of preparation went into planning this traverse. We have done over 100 of these kinds of traverses. Anyone who wants to do off trail hiking should make sure that they have the experience and skills to do it safely. We always bring essentials including extra layers, first aid gear, and satellite communication devices.
#hiking #switzerland #zermatt
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Hi guys, we've seen a few comments suggesting that we were clueless and unprepared in terms of researching this hike, and we want to be very clear: we ALWAYS research every route we do thoroughly. However, as we said in the video, there was virtually no beta on this traverse. The one guy who did it brought no rope or extra gear, and he didn't mention needing any. That was the only beta we had to go on. As you saw in the video, once we were on the traverse ourselves we reached a point where we decided we would need harnesses and rope to continue safely. That is where and why we turned around. We talked about it very clearly and specifically in the video because that is how we build beta as a community. Now others who contemplate this traverse will know that one guy did it without any gear, but that two other people felt that they would need ropes and harnesses in order to continue past the second peak. That is not "stupid" or "irresponsible" -- it is good community practice. We went as far as we were safely able to go given our ability levels, and then turned around when we felt it wouldn't be safe to continue. We then shared that experience so that others could factor it into making their own decisions, rather than just reading the one report by a guy who did the whole thing with no gear. So please, consider that before posting cruel words and unfounded insults.
Ignore the negative comments, you guys always seem to make the right decisions based on your level. Nothing but respect for the 2 of you.
Sounds to me as a reasonable and responsible explanation. Thanks for camming back and immediately provide some more information on your approach, practice and sharing of knowledge & safety regarding the tours you make. I appreciate your response and I do apologize for my comment below - it was a little too fast. Wish you both enjoyable and safe hikes.
You just have a death wish, which is fine, except for the poor bastards who will have to risk their lives to come to rescue you
Well said. That’s the truth of the matter
@@Bruno-tm3xolol - the internet just wouldn’t be the internet without NPC’s like you ❤️. Never change my friend 🙏🏻
The most important skill of the mountaineer: knowing when to turn around. Well executed! Awesome views!
Thanks very much. We totally agree with you, and always try to err on the side of safety when deciding when and why to turn. ❤️
@@LiveHardxLoveHard hope you had a membership with Swiss REGA or AirGlacier/Air Zermatt they fly you out when hurt or with a broken leg for free otherwise its 500 Franks. This is like a serious terrain where you need to be more then 2 people and being roped when doing the peaks.
As a swiss mountaineer, please for your own safety- don't do stuff like this alone. Glad you turned around, that could've turned ugly real quick. In this kind of terrain, you need ropes and gear (including clothing(!)), knowledge and experience beforehand. A huge percentage of those killed in the swiss mountains are inadequately equipped foreigners with little or no mountain experience. So please, next time you want to do something like this, hire a mountain guide and get the right gear. Stay safe
Thanks Thomas -- we really appreciate that you expressed your concern in a kind and thoughtful way. We actually do have a lot of experience, and have done dozens of class 4 traverses similar to this. The problem we ran into here was that the only beta we could find on this traverse was from a guy who did it with no gear and never mentioned even thinking that gear might be needed. For us though, once we reached a spot where the rock wasn't as reliable, we felt we would want protection to continue and so we turned around. That was no problem though -- we've been doing this for years so we're used to exploring places without much beta, turning around if it gets too dangerous, and then later returning with the gear we feel we need to complete the climb. We actually had rope and harnesses and pro with us on this trip, but didn't come back with them to this hike because we still had too many other mountains to climb! ❤️
@@LiveHardxLoveHardyou know the only best climbers are alive climbers and it’s good to see you guys know that so respect for that.
And thank you so much sharing your beautiful experience.
Yep. There are old climbers and bold climbers and very few old, bold climbers. @@leculduchien1386
Don’t do it alone?! Don’t do it ever!! It doesn’t matter if you bring a Swiss lifetimer guide because there’s no way to enjoy the hike when you have to watch every single step, at least for normal people who will get terrified once they get to the top.
If you’re insane and can enjoy the hike, then you just have it going, sooner rather than later. No advice matters.
@@Nowhere-fromDon’t be dramatic… with a mountain guide this is no problem
I am so glad you turned back. You both have the wisdom born of experience! Still, thank you for the majestic vistas of this perfect day. All these recent alpine adventures have been so fun to watch. Love you both!
Thanks Mark -- lots of love back to you! Really glad you're enjoying these adventures -- truly the best trip we've ever had. ❤️
Oh my God, you guys scared the heck out of me. What a great video and a great couple you guys are.
Thanks James! We were just talking about this hike the other day when we were adventuring in the Sierra. The Sierra is utterly gorgeous right now, but honestly not sure we've seen anything more amazing than the views from Oberrothorn that day. Def want to get back to Switzerland soon for some more climbing! ❤️
As a fellow adventurer, I can say this from personal experience - there is a fine line between daring adventure and foolishness. Glad you made the call to turn back.
Thanks very much, and you're right. It is a fine line, and of course it's best to err on the side of safety...but still get close to it! ❤️
The level of composure demonstrated here will leave the 99% of people who have no idea how intense this must have been, utterly in the dark. Respect.
Thanks very much! Luckily we've done so many of these types of ridge scrambles over the years that we've really learned how to handle the adrenaline now, and make the right decisions. But yeah, those vertical drops were intense for sure, and even got Adam's pulse rate up at one point! ❤️
Awesome, spectacular hike and half the traverse. But the biggest congratulation is in finding your limit and turning around when you reached it. I was almost at that level myself and can completely appreciate the struggle.
Thanks very much, Dan. That's well said, and we appreciate it. We've really been working on judging risk well and knowing when to turn around, and on this one we got it pretty much exactly right. We still had a great adventure, but never took it too far. It is an ongoing battle between will and wisdom, but when in doubt we're learning to choose wisdom! ❤️
Wow! Amazing climb...great-full you are well and turned back...absolutely gorgeous views, thanks so much for sharing your adventures with us. Much love to you both!!💙
Thanks Barbara -- much love right back to you! Yes we were really lucky with the weather for the whole 6-week trip, but on this day particularly it was just stunning to see Matterhorn and those glaciers in all their glory. So happy to share it with you! ❤️
What you two share, and what you share together, is just purely beautiful...thank you for sharing
Thank you so much -- that's a lovely sentiment, and very touching to both of us! ❤️
#goals for sure!
Wow! Spectacular views - I definitely would have wanted to be roped up on that. Thanks for posting.
Thank you! Yes it was definitely one of the top 5 view hikes of either of our lives. Still can't quite believe it. The guy whose beta we read managed to make it the whole way across without wanting a rope, but we're with you on this one -- as soon as we got to that area where the rock was crumbly, we turned it right around. Not that it wasn't doable, because it was still class 4, but the risk just would have been too high for us at that point. ❤️
Your video work is astounding, just beautiful.
Thank you so much! We were really blessed to have such perfect weather in this amazing place, and very glad its epic beauty came through on camera! ❤️
Amazing videography under these stressful circumstances. It was definitely a wise decision to call it a day and return. Luckily the weather was perfect, imagine doing that traverse during strong winds on slippery rocks. Thank you for taking us with you!
Thanks very much, and you're right -- we wouldn't even think about this one without perfect weather because those rocks would get slippery! Even as it was, we turned around once they started getting loose because class 4 with trustworthy grips is fine for us, but with uncertain grips we want no part of it! ❤️
One more detail to keep in mind: in Switzerland, if they have to come and rescue you, you pay the helicopter. Nothing is cheap in Switzerland and certainly not the helicopter.
Thank you, that's an important thing for people to know. Honestly, we both think that it's an excellent rule. If everyone knows they'll have to pay for their own rescue, they'll be less inclined to take risks they can't handle. ❤️
Are you suggesting that you are climbing terrain like that and have not purchased an annual rescue card/membership in Air Zermatt or other Swiss heli/mountain rescue? Approx 35CF/year.
@@timmccabe4654 I always buy appropriate insurance when climbing or skiing the backcountry. In Italy it's included with a membership of the national mountaineering club. In France rescue is free (at least so it was few years back).
@@timmccabe4654 You pass it on your way to the lift station 😁
Just amazing.....as always! Thank you for sharing that epic climb and incredible view!!!!
Thank you -- so happy to share this one with you! It really was one of the most incredible visual scenes we've ever seen -- just spectacular in every direction the whole hike. Wow -- Zermatt is just special!❤️
Elise and Adam, I just want to say Thank you so much for taking all of us with you!!! I will never nor do I want to do anything like this!!! But I enjoy your videos so very much!!! Absolutely Love you Both!!! ❤️
Aw thanks Cyndi -- your care and support and enthusiasm really uplift and inspire us. Much love to you, and much gratitude as well. ❤️
I can understand the excited but queasy feeling. I was feeling it just watching you guys! I'm glad you had the wisdom to turn around when things got really gnarly. What an amazing view though!
Thank you -- yeah we definitely turned at the right point for us. I always check every hold, but when I checked one and it broke off in my hand I was like, turnaround time! No regrets, though I'd like to go back with a rope and complete the traverse because it was freaking spectacular. Glad the views came through on camera -- in person it was among the top five view days I've ever experienced. I can still close my eyes and see that glistening Matterhorn! --A
You two are amazing! Glad to see you made it out safe, that trek was not for the faint of heart!
Thanks Daniel! Yes the drops on this one were really intense, but we definitely kept it safe and within our capabilities. Stoked to share it with you! ❤️
I have some of your older videos saved to my watch later to always get around to, wanted to drop a message and say thank you for a wonderful 15 minutes here, awesome!
Thanks Carl -- so glad you saw this one! Without doubt some of the best views we've ever had on a hike. Top 3 all time. ❤️
I loved this video! I love all of your videos. Just the sheer joy of living that comes through.
Thanks so much, Chris -- that's a lovely compliment and brought a big smile to both of our faces! ❤️
You lucky guys really had great weather conditions. Thank you for the great shots!
You turned around at the right moment. Always safety first. We also want to enjoy many more wonderful adventures with you.
Thanks very much, and you're so right about the weather! In talking with others about the area and also reading the comments, it's very clear that this level of cloudlessness is precious and rare -- what a blessing! And yeah, given the great conditions it was hard to turn around, but as you say -- safety first because we still hopefully have a lot of years of wonderful adventuring left. ❤️
Wow, this defines “over the top”. I sure glad you turned around as it look impossible from your camera. I most say you both are the most interesting outdoors adventure people on TH-cam. Keep having fun! Love your adventures! Dave
Thanks very much, Dave, that is really nice to hear! Yes the moves on the traverse weren't that hard for us, but as soon as we saw some unstable rock that's when we turned. And no regrets at all -- it was still a super fun adventure! ❤️
Looks like a fun traverse. The scenery is unreal. Amazing views. I am hoping to head to Zermatt next year
Do it, Mike! Zermatt is basically heaven for hikers and climbers. Next time we're going to go for longer, and stay until we can get Matterhorn and Weisshorn too! ❤️
Gotta say that halfway through that, and with any weather changes, it would not matter how skilled you are. Forward or back, you'd be hosed. One of the things I learned on Outward Bound in Colorado at 16 hiking and climbing in the Collegiate Range for a month, is that weather changes could mean death. Happened twice. Once with hypothermia that happened within 15 minutes after a severe weather change, and once where 5 people had to jump off a mountain peak when they were suddenly trapped in a cloud with ground currents popping rocks. The jumped down a 100' scree patch and lived. Also on the trip, a random rock the size of a door also almost took out 2 rope teams of five on Ice Mountain as it bounced off the walls of the crack we were in. I was the last guy on the second rope team and it came down and hit 3 feet in front of us as we all huddled together to reduce risk of one guy getting hit and taking all of us with him. Weather and lose rock, even with gear which we had, can suddenly take a turn for the worse. This is the first video I've seen from you two. All it did was bring back those learning curves for me. You guys are super entertaining and I'm looking for filmmakers for a new movie network. Maybe the less heart attack creating stories might be a more sustainable and survivable approach. That said great film. Ambulance should arrive shortly with the shocker paddle things. Chris
Wow, those are incredible stories. Thank you for sharing them, and also the lessons you learned from them. We know what you mean about weather, and are quite religious about checking for any changes. On this one, it was a genuinely perfect forecast, and we were able to double check before starting the traverse, so we weren’t too worried. But we definitely had a lightning scare in CO that taught us a good lesson. Glad you enjoyed , and feel free to peruse some of the mellower and less heart pounding ones :)
Thank you for sharing your adventures and advice and ignore those who don’t know what they are talking about. You all are experienced climbers and adventure comes with risks!! Driving a car, hiking, kayaking, racing, horseback riding. My husband was thrown from a mule in the Grand Canyon in 2018 and had 5 compression fractures in his back. He is fine but crap happens. Keep on doing your thing!!
Thanks very much, Lezli! You are so right that everything comes with risk, from crossing the street to riding a bike, and it's all about just reading each situation and knowing what risks you can and can't handle. Very happy you're enjoying the adventures, and we will definitely keep on doing our thing! 🙏❤️
You guys are amazingly insane. I think I was holding my breath the entire video. Well done!
Haha you and me both, Steve! It's been a while since we were on a traverse that steep, but most of it was very fun despite the slight vertigo! ❤️ --E
Wooo beautiful view and great adventure I love this. Going to Zermatt this December for ski. 🎉❤
Awesome! We are really excited about getting back there for some skiiing, snowshoeing, and winter mountaineering at some point too. Hope you have an incredible time!! ❤️
these views are unreal! simply amazing. Definitely putting this on my hiking bucket list.
That is so great to hear! You 100% will not regret it. Of course, there's no guarantee that Matterhorn won't be clouded over on the day you go, but even still it is a wonderful hike and the glacier views alone are absolutely world class! ❤️
Epic video well done guys!! A stunning climb with amazing weather and views, a good climber always knows when to turn back and live. So many people die because they make the wrong decisions up there.
Thanks very much! Yes the weather was incredible, and luckily a couple of Swiss people on the mountain let us know how truly rare it was to see Matterhorn uncovered for the whole day like that, so we definitely soaked it all in. And you're right about knowing when to turn back. Even though we knew another guy had done the full traverse with no gear, you have to know what your own limit is and as soon as we hit it we turned around. And no regrets about it, it was still a wonderful day! ❤️
Fantastic filming, the danger and steepness really did come through big time. Thank you for demonstrating the exhilarating risk taking in such a spectacular setting, AND the ability to make good decisions to live for another snack!
Haha thanks very much, and you're so right -- we need to make good decisions because there are thousands of snacks left to live for (though I think during our six weeks there Adam might have caused a snack shortage crisis in western Europe) 😂❤️
That is looking incredible!
It was for sure one of our top five view days we've ever had -- not just filming, but even in person we've rarely ever seen views like that. ❤️
What does one do when they are up at 3 am to fly to Phoenix? Catch some Adam and Elise ! Home run , home run, home run! That is what this video is! Switzerland is my favorite spot on the earth (but Alaska is a very close second). I was stationed in Germany. I was deploying quite a bit; and we had a new born son. So, I would scarf up my 6 month old son and take him camping down by Grindewald, at the base of the Eiger Mtn. It was about a 4 hr drive from Stuttgart, where we lived. I even toted him down there so I could run the Jung Frau Marathon on the base of the Eiger.
Good call to get off the hill. My buddy and I were south of Munich to lay a wreath ( it was done annually) to remember one of our unit members that skied off a cliff while doing winter training. I had never been….and it had been several years since my buddy had been there; so our navigation was not supreme. Anyways….our scale up, which was class 3, kind of became class 4……and the sun was going down. So….we eventually called it as it was just about dark….laid the wreath where we were…..and got out of there. I remember clinging to the side and envisioning that the options had departed.
Superb snack spots, by the way!
Alan! We love hearing your stories -- you've had so many fascinating adventures! And we have to look into this Jung Frau marathon!! Glad you approve of the snack spots -- Adam felt that, all things considered, it was an all-time top 5 snacking day! ❤️ --E
Oh my God, that is an awesome view from up there! A bit risky but luckily you guys made it !
Subscribed to your channel - keep sharing experiences
Thanks so much, and very glad you are joining us for more adventures. Lots of beautiful climbs in spectacular places coming up this fall! ❤️
2:54 Actually, I thought it was an awesome view from down here.
This is the most impressed I have ever been with the two of you. You new your limits and turned around.
Thanks so much, Dan -- that really means a lot to us!!! ❤️❤️
Amazing I need this bless u 2 always superb content peace love and light going your way 🙏🏼
Thank you so much -- we love feeling that energy from you, and are sending it right back your way as well! 🙏❤️
Wow! What spectacular views over there! Courage is needed, and you guys are!!!
Thanks Miguel! It really was spectacular views, some of the best we've ever seen anywhere in the world. Already excited to go back to Switzerland! ❤️
What a great adventure. Had the pleasure of staying 4 days in Zermatt last year. What a delightful village! Like a sensation of " part- ski lodge,part- movie set, part- fairy tale".😅. Loved it
Thanks Todd, that's very well described! We've been trying to tell our relatives what it was like, and we might have to use that -- or better yet, just make them come with us next time and see that amazing place for themselves! ❤️
What a gnarly climb! Glad y’all are safe
Thanks Amanda! Ya we turned around at the right time, because it was about to go from gnarly to downright dangerous. But now of course we already want to go back with a rope and finish that thing! ❤️
Recently, we went hiking in the Canadian Rockies around the Lake Louise basin. We encountered several German couples along the way, and I remember asking them “why travel such a long distance to come here when you have the similar looking Alps in your own ‘backyard?’” They all responded that they were more impressed with the Rockies, as they were “less tame” than the Alps. By “less tame” I gathered that they were referring to the Rockies’ wildlife, i.e., grizzlies, elk, etc. One of them even suggested that the Rockies were more impressive looking. But, upon seeing the spectacular footage you captured, I’m amazed that they felt this way. Granted, there may not be grizzlies over there, but the the beauty and scale of that backdrop is jaw-dropping beautiful. Now I want to make the long haul in the opposite direction to see this beauty for myself!
That is a great story! I grew up very near the Rockies, and think the Alps are definitely more visually impressive. However, the Rockies can be much more remote and definitely have their own rugged beauty. Lake Louise sounds awesome! We are planning to visit the Canadian Rockies probably at some point next summer -- let us know if there are any must-do climbs or hikes. Meanwhile, you absolutely must get over to the Alps. It is truly, truly stunning. And stay for as long as you possibly can -- you will not regret it! ❤️
It's beautiful!!! Look like a painting 💞
It was awesome! Definitely in the top 5 view days we've ever experienced anywhere in the world. So blessed by the weather, too! ❤️
I've was on Oberrothorn just a couple of weeks ago and have been to Zermatt many times but have never heard of anyone attempting a traverse from the summit of Oberrothorn. You were very wise to turn back. The drops from Oberrothorn are enormous and the rock looks crumbly and loose. Certainly what you were attempting was way, way beyond anything I would wish to try. But really fun to see Zermatt and Oberrothorn in a video and shame I didn't bump into you guys. There are many great hikes in Zermatt: for example to the Hornlihutte, the Hohbalmen, the hike to the Schoenbiel hut amd many others.
That’s so neat that you were just up on Oberrothorn! Just stunning views from yo there. Yes we just got a taste of the great hiking Zermatt has to offer, but we’re very excited to come back for a longer time and do a lot more, including the ones you recommended!
Omg, that was genuinely amazing!!
You have a great ability to really pull the viewer into scenery and the atmosphere! Masterpiece!!!
Thanks so much, Ervin! OMG bet you would have loved being up there on that day with those views of Matterhorn. Everywhere we turned it looked like a postcard! ❤️
That's an amazing hike very beautiful scenery. I hope you guys are having a great time. Be safe and live life, very beautiful seniority of the mountains too. ❤
Thanks very much, Luis! This was our best hiking and climbing trip ever, and we're already making plans to get back to the Alps and Dolomites again next summer. ❤️
Very sensible approach....wonderful images of the Matterhorn
Thanks very much -- we still can't believe we got a full day to see that beautiful peak with no clouds. Will never forget it! ❤️
Great Tour... my wife and I went to Oberrothorn in 2020. On the way down I saw this beautiful ridge towards Fluehorn and we decided to give it a try without any beta. We also ended up turning around, I think at that horrible slab. But until then we had a lot of fun!
OMG that slab was the WORST! Way sketchier than it looks on camera, right? Super cool that you guys just tried the ridge line on a whim, btw -- kindred spirits for sure. And also great that you knew when to turn. ❤️
Thank you for those amazing views of my grandfathers home country, that I am pretty sure, I will never see with my own eyes 🙃 This was really snack-spot-heaven! I am so glad that you never lose your senses for survival 🫣
And I wanted to let you guys know that I MADE UP TO HALF DOME last weeks Thursday! It was a great experience that I will never forget and I definitely want to repeat one day 🤩 It was so great having that feeling on the cables - somewhere between felling save and fearing for my life - I can understand much better now why you guys switched from trail running more to climbing some time ago - I guess this feeling is highly addictive 😜
Thanks again for all you inspiration - I love you guys! 😘
Yes!!! Huge congratulations on a massive lifetime bucket-list achievement! Really happy for you, and so glad you enjoyed it and got that addictive feeling. Next up, the European via ferratas -- talk about addictive, you'll never want to leave them!! ❤️
i am going to Yosemite in October!!! By any chance, did you do the bonus hike--Half Dome and Clouds Rest in a day? im curious about how long that hike would take!
@@larvitar2065 ya we did do it in a day, and with filming it took a little over 10 hours. Without filming if you hike fast, maybe 8-9. But bring headlamps just in case you need to come down in the dark!
So epic, just amazing
Gorgeous views!!! Thanks for sharing your adventure!
Thank you -- it's truly our pleasure to share this one! We felt so blessed to have that amazing cloudless weather, that we definitely wanted to capture it as best we could on camera and let all you guys see it too. In person, we could barely even believe the views of both Matterhorn and the glaciers. ❤️
Wow the traverse at the end was really thrilling 😮 You captured it very well!
Thanks Rocky! We were really hoping that the beauty and intensity of that place would come out on camera -- so glad you enjoyed it! ❤️
I think the runner Paula Radcliffe said it better than me: "When I stopped (in the 2004 Olympic marathon), my mum told me she was GLAD... that I was able to override that instinct of just 'push,push, no matter what'". Really happy you experienced those insane views and also that you didn't take things too far on the traverse. Needless to say, I was a jelly just watching it - let alone how it must have felt doing it. With the sheer drops and the wind blowing also. Very easy to get to the point of no return! Thanks again for taking us there :)
Wow that's a great quotation -- never heard that one before but will definitely remember it now! Yes it's true -- being willing to stop pushing and take care of oneself is a super important skill that we're learning better and better as the years go by. Very glad you enjoyed this one and the crazy views! ❤️
The landscape is gorgeous. I remember seeing all of that back in the early 80's when I was stationed in Germany.
Anthony that is so cool you were there, and that you got to get over to the Alps on leave. Great choice on your part! My daughter is getting commissioned this spring and hoping to be posted in Germany or elsewhere in Europe. I have my fingers crossed! --A
Excellent, Switzerland sure dishes it out. You need to cruise over and do the Via Ferrata Daubenhorn. Truly great setting and exhilarating day. Thanks for taking the time on sharing.
Wait are you actually reading our minds? Daubenhorn is the next video up -- it was EPIC!!! ❤️
Wow, a route that was too scary even for you!! Spectacular effort though and those views! I haven't been to Zermatt in 30 years, this video makes me think I should return. Keep up the amazing and inspiring videos
Thank you, and you should definitely go back to Zermatt! We've hiked all over the world, and never seen anything like those Zermatt glacier and Matterhorn views. Wow. Still can't believe that place exists! ❤️
More than anything else, I respect the head you have on your shoulders to make the decision to turn back. Too often hikers/climbers let ego get the better of them and that's when bad things happen...Still a phenomenal hike!! Glad you made it back safely!
Thanks very much! Yes we were really happy with the hike, and no regrets about not making the full traverse. You're right about ego -- it's hard to overcome, especially when you're 99.9 percent sure you can make it. But respecting that .1 percent possibility is crucial. ❤️
great images and adventure as usual from you guys ! Thanks for sharing.
Our pleasure -- as soon as we saw there were no clouds in the sky that morning we knew it was going to be a really special day for views, and it definitely was top 10 all time for us in that regard. Delighted to share it with you! ❤️
Truly amazing! Every time I think I’ve seen your scariest video, you top it.
Thanks Monte! Ya the straight verticals on this one were heart-pounding even for me, but we made sure to keep it well within our capabilities. And the views! We'll never forget that place, and will def go back at some point. --A
It's crazy that anywhere on our planet has those spectacular views! Like, I'm over here in the states surrounded by one thing, but out there in the world are these amazing other things. Holy heck, guys!
Yes we were feeling the same way! We know how lucky we are to live near the Sierra, but WOW the Alps are their own special and spectacular thing, as are the Dolomites. Really looking forward to seeing the Himalayas one day as well! ❤️
Oh wow! Beautifully terrifying. I'm glad you're both safe.
OMG Dave that is perfectly said -- beautifully terrifying should be the slogan for our perfect hike! ❤️
That was nerve racking watching this video. Gorgeous views
It was probably in the top 5 view hikes of our whole lives, which is definitely saying something. Truly unbelievable in person -- never thought we'd get such clear all-day-long views of the Matterhorn and all those glaciers! ❤️
I love watching you both climb these mountains!!! Since I can't do it, it's great to see a great couple get er done!!
Dave MN
Thanks Dave! Really happy to bring you along on this one -- was seriously some of the best views we've ever seen in our lives! ❤️
@@LiveHardxLoveHard agree... it's crazy to watch you both on the top of mountains walking without ropes.. but I love Europe!!! 😂
Love seeing these videos. I especially like to see the normalization of reassessing risks as conditions change. Trusting those gut feelings have done me well, even if incomplete adventures tend to live on in my mind long after. It at least drives me to improve gear, training, etc, for next time. Awesome video!
Thanks much, and that's very well said. I feel much the same way that you do about these things, and honestly don't regret turning around even though I know that might be the best weather we'll ever get to attempt that traverse. It really wasn't even that the risk of continuing was so high -- it was just higher than we were comfortable with, and I'm happy to bide my time until I can get back there with better gear next time! --A
Holy cow!! Such an amazing landscape!! Your awesome technical skills combined with the experience to know when enough is enough is a great lesson for your viewers. These vlogs are top notch and provide not only entertainment but valuable hiking/climbing insights and beta. Looks like you are having the time of your life, and thank you once again for sharing with us!! ❤❤
Thanks very much, Dan! Ya we were very glad to add to the beta on this one, because the guy that reported on it before -- and he did the whole thing -- was such a badass that he didn't even mention the possibility of wanting safety gear 😂 But everyone has their risk tolerance limits, and once the rock started to get loose we def wanted more gear. Hopefully other aspiring traversers can benefit from seeing what it's like up there! Meanwhile, we really are having the time of our lives. Back from Europe now and already doing Sierra climbs -- but a couple more Europe vids to edit before we show you those!❤️
Thanks for sharing and as always you made the best decision of turning back after 2 peaks. Sometimes best decisions are to let go! So glad you finished safely! Amazing views as always..
Yes Mugdha! We were really happy about when we turned around -- we still got a fun and exciting adventure, but never pushed it past our risk limits. It was definitely the right decision! ❤️
WOW! That's the best footage I've ever seen! Thanks!
Thanks so much! Really glad that it turned out on camera, because in person we were saying the same thing as you -- it was about the best views we'd ever seen in our lives. ❤️
1st video I've seen of you two. Not a huge hiker but kudos on you for reaching your limits while still keeping your whits and composure. Good life lesson
Thanks very much, and welcome to the channel! Yes the more experience we get climbing big mountains, the more we're learning to turn around when conditions aren't right for us -- this is especially true in snow, because there can be a lot of avalanches in the Western US where we do many of our adventures. ❤️
what an ending enjoying that delicious Pita 😋
Right?!? Elise can make fun all she wants, but when I get something that delicious I'm definitely going to find a way to get it again!! --A
The re-pita was probably better than the first after that legit bailout, holy crap
Have never seen views like this, and on such a perfect day. You guys lucked out. And good decision to turn around when you did, and sometimes butt sliding comes in pretty darn handy! Glad you are safe, and great climbing and thanks sooo much for sharing this beautiful video with us!!
Thanks Mary -- yes we couldn't believe it either! Of course we were new to the area so didn't know how uncommon it was until we ran into a Swiss guy on Oberrothorn who let us know that all-day clear views of Matterhorn are a rare privilege! ❤️
it is such a treat seeing your adventures ,, i save for a quiet day to soak it all in ,, fabulous views,, stay safe
Yay! So glad you're getting to see these last few Europe ones -- they really capped the trip off perfectly!! ❤️
Damn you guys! I find my heart racing, my spine tinging as I curl up my toes just watching this video. I have to force my self to not stop watching it to see if you succeed! That had to have been the best tasting glass of wine you ever had after that climb! 😘
Oh my gosh Phyllis you have it exactly -- after that kind of exhilarating experience, everything looks and feels and tastes incredible. We aren't really big drinkers, but we both ended up getting second glasses just because we were so into the moment and it tasted amazing! ❤️
That was nuts! The scenery was spectacular my palms are still sweating after watching that video, glad you made is safely. Please tell Adam not to re-pita that pun ever again! Be safe.
I'm on it, Kim. We can't let this turn into the bad jokes and even worse shorts channel!! ❤️ --E
That was insane! What a brave pair❤
Thank you! We're definitely learning to navigate the boundary between excitement and risk, and this one was close to the edge but thankfully not over it! ❤️
As a 60 year old with very bad spinal arthritis, I can barely walk 10 steps without difficulty. I WISH I HAD TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF MY MOBILITY WHEN YOUNGER. So, whilst not suggesting that you go to this extreme, definitely make use of your abilities while you have them and go walking, hiking or whatever. Unfortunately you never know what is around the corner. This was crazy, for sure - but VERY impressive!! Well done guys.
Thanks very much for saying that -- your advice really hits home for me because I had pieces of discs removed many years ago and can already feel the arthritis coming for me in those lower spine areas. E and I are both really aware that we might not have too many years left to adventure at this level, so will definitely keep going after it hard while we can and bringing you along with us in spirit! -- A
@@LiveHardxLoveHard What a beautiful response! Thanks. And who knows - I live not too far from where you are (I'm based in the Ardeche in SE France) maybe one day our paths will cross - more in public than in hospital! :) Being in an area of extreme sports and tons of hiking, I am at least lucky that my 3 young kids (yup - I started late!!) have a mother who gets them out and about and hiking.. Life is indeed too short. Be well, healthy and happy.
@@jimbim4405 That's fantastic -- what a great place to live! We got married in the Ardeche area a couple of years ago, and will definitely be back for some more hiking adventures in the next year or two. Will definitely reach out to you before that trip.❤
You two are the best. 🏅🏅 You provide so much inspiration to all of us. And we have to remember being some of the best in any skill can be a magnet... for the estimated 6% of the world's people who have a narcissistic outlook. They get fixated on diminishing other's excellence. I did see one time a t-shirt that an elite athlete was wearing - "I'm running low on haters, need more" 😀
OMG Jason that is fantastic -- we MUST get one of these t-shirts! And thank you very much for the positive energy -- we were honestly getting a little worn out by people who don't even watch the video (much less our hundreds of other videos where we safely and successfully climb hard stuff) and then rant about how our outfit choices mean we must be incompetent hikers. ❤️
You guys made the decision to turn around waaaay later than I would have. The first signs of one step being fatal to me should be the trigger to turn around. You only live once and that's a reason to go out and do stuff but at the same time to stop when you need to. Glad you made it back in one piece.
That's good that you know your limit on these kinds of things. For us, who have done dozens of class 3 and 4 traverses like this over the years, we were fine with the exposure as long as we had reliable holds. We turned as soon as we encountered a section with some crumbly rock, because that's where our limit is. We know a lot of people would have crossed that section, including the guy who did the only previous trip report, but we don't regret turning because, like you, we know what our safety limit is.
Knowing when to turn around is part of the skill! Well played!
Thank you very much! Yes back in the old days we might have tried to brave it across that sketchy patch, but we've done over a hundred of these kinds of traverses now and really learned the importance of minimizing risk and staying safe to climb another day. ❤️
Thank you for sharing this…
It's our pleasure, Paul -- one of the most beautiful places we've ever been in our lives! ❤️
The backdrops in this video are unreal. I think I lost an entire hike's-worth of sweat through my palms watching. Amazing work both hiking and filming as always. Pretty sure I'll watch this several times. It's a re-pita! :)
Haha thanks Matt! Really happy you saw this one, because the whole Europe trip had incredible views thanks to perfect weather but this one was really the capper. Both of us have already re-pita viewed this one, just to really remember the unobstructed Matterhorn and glacier views. It was just amazing to see it in person, and we're already super stoked to go back and climb Matterhorn and Weisshorn! ❤
I'm wondering if yoga pants and a tank top are the best clothes for extreme alpine hiking
Well think about it like this, Joe. This is super comfortable moisture wicking fabric that's very easy to move in and worn by a lot of the top female rock climbers. On an almost 80F day and with plenty of layers in my pack in case I need them, it felt pretty perfect. But really all that matters, for each individual hiker, is what works best for them. I've done over 100 of these types of traverses, many of them in similarly warm weather, and this is what works best for me in those conditions. --E
You guys blow my mind each and every video!
Thanks Kevin -- really glad you're enjoying these! Europe was just amazing this summer, and fall in the Sierra is already looking pretty epic as well. ❤️
Epic. This is a once in a lifetime deal. So cool.
Could you even believe the views on this hike?!? It was truly incredible. ❤️
You guys deserve 3.41M fans. All your trails are exceptional.👍
Thanks so much -- very glad you are enjoying! This trip really was incredible, and we are already looking forward to getting back to Switzerland. ❤️
Part of the 'new reality' in the mountains. Complete lack of equipment, underestimated routes and plenty of instagramable scenery. Those who will minimize everything, except the scenery, will win. The one who will do this route next time in a bathing costume will probably get more likes. Do not underestimate the mountains. Stay safe.
You obviously don't watch our channel, or you would know that when we have beta on a route we always try to bring the right equipment for that route. The only beta we could find on this route, the person did not use any rope or climbing gear. For us once we were on it, we felt we would need a rope and harnesses to complete the traverse safely. That is why we turned around when we did and talked about it on the video so others would know it as well.
i'm a bit overweight - hairy and in my 50's - i though that a mankini might be better - and a big 90's wig - and stilettos of course - should be a doddle
No offense, but sorry, that reply just confirms the naive preparation for this route. To go from "The only beta we could find on this route, the person did not use any rope or climbing gear" to doing a high-alpine traverse in light trail-running equipment? No question, experienced mountaineers can do this for sure, but they would have a good grasp of the route/maps/first-hand info/AND equipment just in case. So, come on, that's just stupid. How many local guides/alpine hut owners have you consulted about this route? Obviously none. That's not how you prepare for such a route. And even if it would have been a fairly simple high-altitude alpine route you seem to be be utterly under-equipped. No local guide would have taken you on this route like that.
I totally agree with @pgricar. This kind of instagramization erodes any kind of common sense. If you are real mountaineers, you should know much better and would not make these revealing excuses. So either admit that you simply were ill-prepared, or don't complain and live with the legitimately critical comments.
Go ask Air-Zermatt and the heroic mountain rescue staff what they think of what you did and let us know. But don't cry if they tell you that what you did leads to actually gnarly situations where they have to put their lives on the line to rescue unprepared people.
Well done for keeping filming when it got tough. Good call turning back. Beautiful day, thanks for sharing.
Thanks very much, James -- ya sometimes we have to remind ourselves to film even when we're frustrated, because that's often the most important and useful footage for people to see. Glad you enjoyed! ❤
I was in Switzerland at the same time as you guys, but over at the Eiger, Grindelwald. We had planned to come over to Zermatt (been 20 years ago) but we bailed. Kind of wish we had come now! Amazing views, as expected! Great job.
That's so funny, because we were seriously considering Grindelwald as well but then chose Leukerbad to do the Daubenhorn and hit the mineral spas. Otherwise we might well have run into each other! We don't regret the choice because Leukerbad was incredible, but still really looking forward to Grindelwald and Eiger on the next trip. Yes, Zermatt on a truly clear day is like a blessing from the heavens, and we somehow got two days like that while we were there. Will never forget it! ❤️
The views here are amazing. Thanks for sharing. It's so important to show everyone that even you both have a point where you need to turn around.
Thanks very much, Jim! Very glad to hear you say that, because it's super important to us to keep it real, whether we triumph or turn or make a mistake or whatever. Love just sharing the real adventure with you guys! ❤️
I'm in the process of inventorying all human remains on a certain popular mountain, and I was very upset watching you two climbing this! Please, don't anyone try this!
Wow Tim, what a strange and troubling job that must be! I hope you were able to watch the full video and see that we stuck with rocky class 3 and 4 terrain, and tested every hold in exposed areas to ensure we were in no danger. These kinds of traverses are certainly not for everyone, but they can be done quite safely if climbers are experienced, use careful technique, and, as we did, turn around the moment it gets loose or otherwise unsafe for them.
@@LiveHardxLoveHard I'm in the process of getting my public safety TH-cam channel up and running, and have 'stumbled' across something I'm not sure how to even begin to explain. Too many people have lost their lives doing exactly what you two are doing. This stuff scares the crap out of me.
Absolutely breathtaking video folks!
Thanks Nathan! We're so happy that the views came out on camera, because it person it was truly one of the most magnificent things we've ever seen -- glistening glaciers and Matterhorn, we really couldn't believe our luck with the weather. ❤️
Yer both beautiful. Awesomeness
Thanks Ryan! Such a fantastic place -- we're already itching to go back and do more climbing there!! ❤️
I'm glad you two called it.....yes, way too dicey. Way too much risk As experienced as you two are, safety is the most important thing. Stay alive for that next adventure around the corner.
Thank you, and we totally agree. We love to challenge ourselves, but once the rock got even a little loose we turned because we have way too much adventuring left to do to risk an early demise! ❤️
The great Elise and Adam met their match on this mountain. I honestly did not think that was possible!
Haha yes we definitely got humbled on this one, but no regrets -- some of the greatest views we've ever seen in our lives, and we'll never forget it! ❤️
Thanks for the trip. I feel like I've been there now.
Our pleasure! Hope you get a chance to visit in person at some point -- definitely some of the most incredible views we've seen anywhere in the world. ❤️
Great hike, beautiful views, a beautiful location, you guys did a great job filming! Once again you were all alone so cool, what a great decision to turn back thank you so much for sharing, Larry Owens traverses are great !
Thanks Larry! So glad you saw this one -- it was just such an incredible day up there with no clouds. Really rare to see Matterhorn like that, and we had views of it the whole day. And totally agree, traverses are the best! ❤️
No offense but when you’re hiking in a yoga outfit, I just got a check out😂😂😂😂😢😮
No offense taken -- this channel simply isn't the right one for you.
Awesome guys that was great!!!..Great decision making!!! Lots of respect...Thanks for sharing your journey!!!! one more comment...ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS...you guys are so blessed to be there!!!!
Thanks so much for those kind words, and you used absolutely the right phrase: we were simply blessed to be there on that day. We'll probably go back there several times in our lives for more climbing, but will likely never again see weather that perfect. So blessed to experience that, and also so delighted to share it with you! ❤️
very spectacular view. amazing adventures~
Thank you so much -- very glad you enjoyed it! We have been truly amazed by all the beautiful hiking and climbing in this part of Europe. ❤
Wow. When you two back off of something, we KNOW it’s bad! Spectacular, and glad you made the prudent call.
Thanks Caroline! Yes once the rocks start getting crumbly when the slopes are that steep, we're out of there! But it was still a wonderful hike, and views that we will never forget!! ❤️
Put some clothes on
Smacks of desperation
It is not desperate, it is comfortable and promotes ease of movement. Many of my favorite female athletes -- especially the rock climbers -- wear similar clothes. I understand that many people have different preferences, but these kind of outfits work wonderfully well for me.
Why? She's beautiful, naturally athletic. Great characters
This is how people die in the mountains. You'll never know when a rock will break or slide. Next time protect yourselves with adequate technique and material. This is bad example.
I'm assuming you haven't seen our other videos, but we often talk specifically about technique, maintaining three points of contact, and checking every single hold before applying weight to it. We did all of that on this traverse. In the only beta we could find on the traverse before doing it, the hiker completed the traverse without any extra gear. However when we were on it, we reached a point where we felt we would need a rope and harnesses to continue safely, and that's exactly where we turned around. In our minds that is a good example, not a bad one. We respect that you have a different opinion -- though given that we were actually there on the traverse and you weren't, I'll have to suspect that our opinion might be better informed in this case.
@@LiveHardxLoveHard I was more thinking on a rope protection, when your hold will fail. I'm being friendly and giving a warm advice :) Be safe to live a long life, with no injuries.
@@LiveHardxLoveHard As you are in Zermatt, if you have experience in glacier traversing and mixed terrain climbing (snow, not too technical ice climbing), I recommend the 4000s Breithorn-Castor ridge. The Lyskamm is long and exposed. The problem for you is the exit is easier by the Italian hillside.
Edit: I saw the Breithorn video. Well done. :)
@@lfuso101 Thanks very much -- Breithorn was wonderful. An exhilarating climb, with incredible views!
Good job having the sense to bail when conditions got too dangerous. Nice to be alive for future adventures. Great video.
Thank you, and totally agree. We've really learned to appreciate just being out adventuring, and sometimes turning around is simply part of the adventure so that, as you say, you make certain you can climb another day. ❤️
Now that was very sketchy...gotta know when to hold em...when to fold them...
Beutiful views...great adventure...thx
Haha yes! And know when to walk away, know when to run. Kenny Rogers' wisdom applies to adventuring for sure! ❤️