Definition
Grand Cornier is a mountain peak in the Pennine Alps, situated in the canton of Valais, Switzerland. It is part of the Dent Blanche massif and ascends to an elevation of approximately 3,901 meters (12,805 feet) above sea level.
Overview
The summit of Grand Cornier lies on the border between the Val d’Hérens and the Mattertal valleys. The mountain was first ascended on 16 June 1865 by a party led by A. W. Moore, accompanied by guides Christian Almer and Ulrich Almer. The peak is a notable objective for experienced alpinists, offering routes that involve mixed rock and ice climbing. The surrounding region is characterized by extensive glaciation, including the adjacent Moming and Grandes Jorasses glaciers.
Etymology / Origin
The name “Grand Cornier” derives from French, where grand means “large” or “great,” and cornier is related to the word corne (“horn”), a common descriptor for sharply pointed mountain peaks. The term therefore conveys the notion of a “great horn,” reflecting the mountain’s prominent, pyramidal shape.
Characteristics
- Elevation: ~3,901 m (12,805 ft)
- Prominence: Approximately 236 m (774 ft) relative to the surrounding terrain.
- Geology: Composed primarily of crystalline metamorphic rocks typical of the Pennine Alps, including gneiss and schist.
- Glaciation: The north‑ and east‑facing slopes are heavily glaciated; the Moming glacier lies at its base.
- Climbing Routes: The classic “Normal Route” follows the southwest ridge, graded AD (assez difficile). More technical climbs include the north‑west face (graded D+ to TD).
- Access: Approaches commonly commence from the villages of Zinal or Täsch, using mountain huts such as the Cabane de la Blanche (3,152 m) as staging points.
Related Topics
- Dent Blanche: The parent peak of Grand Cornier, rising to 4,357 m.
- Pennine Alps: The mountain range encompassing Grand Cornier and other notable summits such as the Matterhorn and Weisshorn.
- Alpine Mountaineering: Historical and contemporary practices of climbing high alpine peaks in the Alps.
- Swiss Alpine Club (SAC): Organization responsible for maintaining mountain huts and trail infrastructure in the region.
- Glaciology of the Alps: Scientific study of the glaciers surrounding Grand Cornier, relevant for climate change research.