L'Evêque

L'Evêque is a 3,716 m summit in the Pennine Alps, rising above the Arolla valley in the municipality of Evolène, canton of Valais, Switzerland. Among mountaineers it ranks as one of the highest peaks in the valley, and from below it is an easy landmark to pick out.

What is L'Evêque and where is it?

The peak sits right above the Col Collon pass, south of the Mont Collon massif and close to the Italian border. Together with the slightly lower, twin-summited Mitre de l'Evêque (about 3,653 m) it forms a distinctive double tower, visible from many points in the upper Val d'Hérens. Glaciers drain its flanks toward Arolla, including the Glacier d'Arolla. The French name means "the bishop"; this page is about the mountain, not a person or building.

How do you get close to it?

Expeditions start in Arolla, the village at the head of the valley above Evolène. From there a trail leads to the Refuge des Bouquetins (2,980 m) in the rear of the valley. The Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) puts the approach at roughly 4.5 hours and 1,150 m of climbing, graded T4. Depending on glacier conditions, crampons may be needed. An older variant between the Bas and Haut Glacier d'Arolla is closed and no longer maintained, so stay on the official route.

What is the climb like?

This is a high-alpine objective, not a hike. Guides describe two classic lines, both starting from the Bouquetins hut area:

• North flank from the Collon glacier, graded PD and listed by some sources as the normal route.
• South-west ridge, graded AD+, crossing the Col de Collon glacier and a crevasse zone at roughly 3,100–3,300 m. It is described as a fine, rarely visited ridge on good rock (III/IV).

Sources disagree on which line counts as standard, so check a current topo or ask a local guide before you go. Glacier gear, rope skills and stable weather are essential.

When should you go?

In summer and early autumn the hut serves as the base for high-mountain trips. In spring the peak is often climbed on skis, as it lies near the Haute Route. Glacier conditions change week to week, so ask at the hut or with Arolla guides for current information.

What else is nearby?

Arolla has drawn botanists and geologists since the 18th century, and the first mountain guides appeared here in 1838. Today it is one of the more atmospheric bases for hiking in the Valais: larch forests, glaciers in view and trails of every difficulty. If you lack alpine experience, you can still enjoy the double silhouette of L'Evêque and the Mitre from the valley, or walk up to the Bouquetins hut.

Frequently asked questions

How high is L'Evêque?

3,716 m above sea level, making it one of the highest summits of the Arolla valley.

Where does the trip start?

In Arolla, reached via Evolène. From there a trail climbs to the Refuge des Bouquetins at 2,980 m.

Is the ascent difficult?

Yes, it is a glaciated alpine climb. The north flank is graded PD and the south-west ridge AD+.

Can it be climbed in spring?

Spring is a popular time for ski mountaineers, but it requires experience and an avalanche assessment.