The Chrachenhorn is great alternative to the well travelled Aeplihorn (which is just over 3000m, and thus a popular target for ski tourers). Chrachen means “gorge” or “ravine” in Swiss German and the name probably comes from the very steep North and Southwest slopes of that peak. Both slopes are only skied a few times every winter!

For further peaks in the Monstein region click here.

The mountain is relatively easy to climb over Northwest ridge which is almost always windblown. Thus ski crampons (Harscheisen) are recommended. The peak offers great views into the rugged mountains to the South.

The main reason the Chrachenhorn is not often climbed it that the great descents to the North and Southwest are quite steep (35 to 40 degrees at the top) and require save avalanche conditions and some steep skiing skills.

We skied the Southwest face all the way down to Inneralpen. Despite the warm weather and relatively little snow (in early February 2020) we found great virgin powder almost all the way down. Colleagues on that day skied the North couloir which was also great.