Graue Wand (plaisir)
Bern, CH
The classic “Niedermann Route” climbs prominent crack systems to a summit with wrap around views. The route follows the line of least resistance up this impressive face and offers pitch after pitch of excellent climbing. Especially memorable is the “Ziegenrucken” (the goat’s back) with 40 m of phenomenal laybacking. The often deep and rounded cracks will force you to use your entire repertoire of crack climbing moves and supplementary gear placing skills as well. Rappelling the designated rappel route is straightforward, but always stay a little to the east. With blank ice conditions on the approach, crampons and ice axes are recommended.