14/09/2026
The Eiger North Face has shaped generations of climbers. Now it has a new line.
This summer, (IG) and (IG) completed the first ascent of Solar Eclipse, a new 33-pitch route established over 13 days on one of alpinism's most historic walls.
The project began years ago, with Roger and Raphael Schmid opening the first pitches before injury put the route on hold. This season, Fay and Roger returned to continue the vision, supported throughout by (IG) and a small team effort that made the ascent possible.
Rather than forcing a line through the face, they followed the natural weaknesses of the mountain as they revealed themselves. The result is a route that stays true to the character of the Eiger: steep, committing, and adventurous, combining modern protection where necessary with sections that still demand route finding, judgment, and traditional climbing skills.
Over 18 days on the project, including 13 living on the wall, the pair hauled gear, food, and water up the face, sleeping on portaledges as they slowly worked higher. One night, suspended above the valley, they watched a solar eclipse from their ledge. The memory would eventually give the route its name.
For Fay, the first ascent marks another chapter in the evolving history of women on the Eiger North Face. For both climbers, the goal was never simply to add another route to the mountain, but to create a line that respects its rich history while leaving future parties with the same sense of exploration that makes alpine climbing so compelling.
Solar Eclipse. 33 pitches. A new route on the Eiger North Face.