By Dave Warfield 

As the most recognized mountain on the European continent, the roughly chiseled rock pyramid of the Matterhorn serves as a defining geographical landmark. With a near perfect pyramid, its absolute symmetry demarcates the exquisite nature of this beautiful mountain. Nestled in the Swiss Alps, birthplace of climbing, an ascent of the Matterhorn hearkens back to the purist traditions of climbing. At 14,600 is it higher than any mountain in the continental United States 

The Matterhorn, which stands over the town of Zermatt, is nearly steeple-like in both structure and magnetism. The region nearby is comprised of lush meadows and pristine landscapes. The combination of scenic beauty, superb lodging and the ability to challenge oneself by day and live in luxury by night, makes climbing in Switzerland a rather comfortable alpine experience.

This unique opportunity to climb in one of the most famous climbing regions in the world is unrivaled in excellence and quality. A little dicey  below 

Bad Ass Dave bringing it home above 

History
Lodged in the Pennine Alps along the Swiss-Italian border, the Matterhorn’s history dates back to the Whymper team ascent in 1865. The climbing accomplishments continue into modern day with such achievements as Swiss Guides Arnold and Graven completing two complete traverses, covering all four ridges in 19½ hours. In 1995, B. Brunod set the record for the fastest ascent reaching the summit in 2 hours, 12 minutes and 29 seconds from the village of Cervinia. Other notable ascents include the first woman, Lucy Walker (British) in 1871, first ascent of the North Face in by F. and T. Schmid in 1931 and W. Bonatti’s a solo winter ascent on a new direct route of the North Face in 1965. Dave on summit below and other below that