Finsteraarhorn

mountain, Switzerland

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Article History

Finsteraarhorn, highest peak (14,022 feet [4,274 metres]) of the Bernese Alps in south-central Switzerland, it lies between the cantons of Bern and Valais south-southeast of the mountain resort of Grindelwald. First ascended in 1812 by three Swiss guides (though this is disputed, and the first ascent may not have been until 1829), the glacier-covered summit is now challenged by many mountaineers. A hut for the climbers lies at 10,017 feet (3,053 metres) to the south of the peak; and the Finsteraarjoch, a pass (10,805 feet [3,293 metres]), lies to the north.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.