A tragic discovery has shaken the Swiss Alps, as five missing skiers were found dead on May 26, 2025, near the Adler Glacier, close to the Rimpfischhorn mountain. This area is not far from the popular tourist town of Zermatt, a known base for mountaineers and skiers.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
The search began when two hikers came across abandoned skis near the 4,199-meter peak. Concerned by what they saw, they alerted authorities. After the alert was raised, rescue crews from Air Zermatt and the Valais police quickly began searching by air and on foot. They later found the skiers' bodies spread out across the snow, at different levels, buried in avalanche debris.
Three of the skiers were found together, while two others were discovered higher up on a steep and narrow snow slope. A fifth pair of skis was found nearby, confirming that all five had been traveling together.
Weather Conditions Under Investigation
The region had seen heavy snowfall in the days before the tragedy. This weather likely contributed to unstable snow layers and triggered avalanches. Officials have not yet shared the names or nationalities of the victims but are closely examining the weather and terrain to understand what went wrong.
A Challenging and Risky Route
Rimpfischhorn is not a beginner’s climb. It’s known for its difficult, high-altitude routes that attract skilled climbers and experienced backcountry skiers. It normally takes around five hours to reach the Rimpfischhorn from Zermatt, and most people spend a night in a mountain hut before or after the climb. While the views and experience are incredible, the risks are real, especially during poor weather.After this heartbreaking loss, experts are reminding people to never underestimate the Alps. Proper planning and the right equipment can make a life-saving difference.
Recommended Safety Gear:
Mammut Barryvox S Avalanche Beacon: Fast and reliable for locating victims.
BCA Tracker 3 Transceiver: Easy to use and compact.
Salewa Lightning 240 Probe: Lightweight and strong for quick snow searches.
Petzl Vertex Helmet: Offers solid head protection on tough terrain.
Garmin eTrex 10 GPS: Helps you navigate even when trails vanish under snow.
Staying informed about weather conditions, avalanche warnings, and having proper training is just as important as carrying safety gear. This incident is a powerful reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the need for extreme caution in the mountains.
