Besides Mönch Jungfrau has to be the most popular mountain in Berner Oberland range. Vast majority of climbers take the SE ridge to reach the 4158 m. high summit. It is recommended to overnight at the Mönchjochshytte and start early in the morning to avoid the hot midday sun.
The night was pitch black when I started the approach to the base of the route in July 2006. Path was well worn so it was easy to move quickly without losing the way. After sunrise the temperature rose rapidly weakening the snow bridges. I also wanted to make it back to Jungfraujoch by noon to get use of my cheaper early-morning railway tickets. The guided parties moved quickly so I did not hurry to get pass but enjoyed the views when the rising sun coloured the surrounding mountains. On the way down many took the shorter and steeper way to Jungfraujoch but moving solo I estimated the ascent route to be less dangerous although longer way across the glacier. I felt satisfaction when I got seated in the train taking me back down to the valley; I had climbed five UIAA-listed 4000ers in three days.