Clariden

Clariden (also called Claridenstock) is a 3,267 m peak in the Glarus Alps, in the municipality of Glarus Süd. Its summit ridge marks the border between the cantons of Glarus and Uri. On the north side it looks down on the Klausen Pass (1,948 m), while the south is blanketed by broad glaciers and firn. It is a classic objective for mountaineers in summer and for ski tourers in spring.

Where is Clariden and what surrounds it?

The mountain belongs to the Uri-Glarus Alps subgroup. Meltwater from the Hüfifirn to the west feeds the Chärstelenbach, a tributary of the Reuss, which ends up in Lake Lucerne. The Claridenfirn to the east drains into the Linth and on to Lake Zurich. The peak therefore sits on a watershed between two river systems.

How do you climb Clariden?

Both main routes start at SAC huts and cross glaciers, so you need a rope, crampons and crevasse-rescue skills. The key hazard is the bergschrund below the east snow flank, which can be hard to pass when wide open.

• From the Claridenhütte (normal route): about 810 m of ascent and 3.5 to 4.5 hours, grade PD, I. The path leads onto the Claridenfirn, across the glacier and up the east snow flank. The hut is easiest reached by cable car via Fisetengrat.
• From the Planurahütte (2,947 m): the shortest option, around 320 m and 1 to 2 hours, also PD, I. You follow the glacial ridge to the Claridenpass, then head north over the Claridenfirn to the east flank.
• Hut to hut: crossing from the Claridenhütte to the Planurahütte via the Claridenfirn and Hüfijoch takes roughly 3 to 4 hours, and the Clariden summit fits easily into that day.

Can you ski it?

Yes. After the Tödi, Clariden is the second most popular ski tour in the Glarus Alps. From the Claridenhütte the ascent is about 1,025 m and takes 4.5 to 6 hours.

When should you go?

In summer, conditions depend on the state of the glacier and the bergschrund, so ask at the hut before setting out. Spring suits ski touring. In winter or poor weather, a glacier trip without a guide is a bad idea.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Clariden? 3,267 m above sea level.

Which huts are closest? The Claridenhütte and the Planurahütte, both run by the SAC. The Planurahütte offers the shorter approach.

Do I need glacier equipment? Yes. Both routes cross glaciers, so bring a rope, crampons and the skills to move safely among crevasses.

What is the hardest section? The bergschrund on the east flank. Climbers pass it on the right or avoid it by taking the rocks toward the northeast ridge.