Stages 4–7

Weissmies and Valais

153.4

Distance (km)

18

+4000m Peaks

56:26:49

Activity (hours)

17933

Elevation gain (m)

4:49:17

Avg. hours of sleep

153.4

Distance (km)

18

+4000m Peaks

56:26:49

Activity (hours)

17933

Elevation gain (m)

4:49:17

Avg. hours of sleep

The toughest days so far

In the latest stages of the challenge, Kilian has linked 31 summits, including the peaks of Dürrenhorn (4,035m), Stecknadelhorn (4,241m), Nadelhorn (4,327m), Dom des Mischabels (4,545m), and Strahlhorn (4,190m). This brings his total to 41 summits connected via their ridges.

Weather conditions have made stages 4, 5, 6, and 7 the most challenging so far. However, Kilian was accompanied by a few friends and family, including his mother, which added an extra layer of enjoyment to these climbs.

Over the four stages, Kilian has logged more than 56 hours of activity and covered 153.4 km to connect 31 summits over 4,000 meters in the Alps. Some of these peaks, like Zumsteinspitze (4,563m), Nordend (4,609m), and Dufourspitze, also known as Monte Rosa (4,634m), exceed 4,500 meters in height, testing Kilian’s physical, technical, and mental limits.

Stage 4 / Weissmies: Climb + Bike
Stage 5 / Valais 1: Climb
Stage 6 / Valais 2: Climb
Stage 7 / Valais 3: Climb

“Whilst I push my human limits, I’m witnessing nature’s own limits—glaciers shrinking, permafrost melting, and once-climbable routes disappearing.”

Kilian Jornet

Alpine glaciers: the true treasure

Glacial landscapes are one of the defining features of the Alps. These massive ice formations are not only visually stunning but also play a crucial role as indicators of the effects of climate change.

Glaciers play a fundamental role in shaping the Alpine landscape and serve as vital reservoirs of freshwater, supporting ecosystems and providing essential resources for many local communities. They are crucial for water supply, hydroelectric power, and irrigation across much of Europe. Therefore, visible changes in glaciers provide clear evidence of shifts in temperature and precipitation.

Durability that rises to the challenge

The technical demands of this project highlight how essential durable gear can be for success.

As individual outdoor enthusiasts and as organisations, we must find ways to enjoy nature’s landscapes while respecting and preserving them.Therefore, durability is crucial in Alpine Connections, especially with the Tomir 2.0. The longer our sports equipment lasts, the more we can limit overconsumption. Plus, it is essential that Kilian’s shoes endure the demands of such technical terrain.

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