In 1864, Peter Sarbach was a porter for Sir Edward Whymper in one of his attempts to ascend the Matterhorn. Subsequently, he became a guide in the Swiss Alps and surrounding area. The competent guiding skills of Peter Sarbach were well renowned. At age 53, he was invited to Canada for an 1897 first ascent expedition of Mt. Lefroy; and hence he became the first Swiss guide to work in the Canadian Rockies.