UKC

Are crampons and axe requiredfro the italian ridge at this time of year?

In reply to Tyler:

erm...yes.

In reply to Tyler:

Depends whether you're a Punter or a Pro!

youtube.com/watch?v=ndAdFSDDnVY&

In reply to Tom Briggs:
I think I'm the next level down from both of them but I assumed that even they would need crampons if it has icy section, how did they cope without?

I'm now wondering if it's too early in the year for this? Is there a lot of snow around still?

In reply to Tyler:

Could be wrong but I'd be surprised if it has been done yet this year, even with crampons - it's all pretty high altitude so takes a long time to clear of snow. The camptocamp website might give you an idea...
http://www.camptocamp.org/routes/57744/en/matterhorn-arete-du-lion

There's probably a webcam view (or two) from Cervinia which will show how much snow there is.
Unless very snow-free you will almost certainly need crampons / axe, even if descending the same way. If you're going 'over the top' and down the Hornli you will definitely need them.

In reply to graham F:

it will be snowy for a while yet.
http://www.meteoblue.com/fr/suisse/meteo-matterhorn