Mont Collon

Mont Collon is a 3,637 m peak in the Pennine Alps, in the Swiss canton of Valais, within the municipality of Evolène. Seen from the village of Arolla at the head of the Val d'Hérens, its glaciated north face dominates the southern skyline. The mountain stands close to the Italian border.

Where is Mont Collon?

The peak rises above the Arolla Glacier valley, facing the Pigne d'Arolla across the ice. Its coordinates are roughly 45.976° N, 7.505° E. It shares the area with other well-known summits above Arolla, but it is a separate mountain with its own climbing routes.

How do you get there?

Arolla is the base, reached by road from the Rhône valley through the Val d'Hérens and Evolène. From there, climbers head up the Pièce Glacier to the Cabane des Vignettes (Swiss Alpine Club, about 3,160 m), a stop on the Haute Route from Zermatt to Chamonix. The hut is staffed in summer and its winter room stays open all year. Opening dates differ between sources, so check them before you go.

Can you climb it?

This is an objective for experienced mountaineers with a rope, glacier gear and ideally a guide. The normal route leaves the Cabane des Vignettes, crosses the Col de Charmotane and follows the west ridge. Along the way you cross a few ledges and a chimney, then step onto the glacier at about 3,580 m. The rock is often loose, and the steepest step on the descent is usually roped down. A harder alternative is the south-east spur (Voie du Soleil Levant, SS/5a), for seasoned climbers. In winter and spring the area is also a ski-touring destination.

Who climbed it first?

The first ascent took place on 31 July 1867, by George Edward Foster with guides Hans Baumann and Johann Kronig. The west ridge, now the standard line, was first climbed on 3 August 1876 by A. Cust and F. Gardiner with guides Peter and Johannes Knubel.

What else is nearby?

Arolla has a long alpine tradition. The Historical Dictionary of Switzerland notes grazing here from the 13th century, the first mountaineers and guides in 1838, and the first guesthouse in 1865. Hiking paths lead from Arolla to the Arolla Glacier, which lies between Mont Collon and the Pigne d'Arolla. Close by is the Col de Collon (3,130 m), an old crossing between Valais and the Aosta Valley that fell out of use as glaciers advanced.

When should you go?

The climbing season runs from July to September, when the hut is staffed. Winter and spring belong to ski tourers on the Haute Route. Walks to the glacier are best from June to October.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Mont Collon?

3,637 m above sea level.

Where does the climb start?

At the Cabane des Vignettes (about 3,160 m), reached from Arolla over the Pièce Glacier.

Is it a beginner's peak?

No. The route demands glacier skills, rope work and judgment on loose rock. Beginners should go with a guide.

Is Mont Collon the same as the Pigne d'Arolla?

No. They are two separate peaks above Arolla, divided by the Arolla Glacier.