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Gaislachkogl avalanche barrier left

Sölden

Trentino-Alto Adige

Long big mountain off-piste. Because of the danger in the beginning of the line it is for experienced riders only.

Freeride Skiing Difficult

Distance
1.5 km
Ascent
0 m
Descent
658 m
Low Point
2.3 km
High Point
2.9 km
Gradient
45˚
Gaislachkogl avalanche barrier left Map

The beginning of the line is nearly on top of Gaislachkogl. This entry is the same as the entry for the off-piste of the left side of the avalanche barrier or the “Gaislachkogl off-piste variation”. First go on top of Gaislachkogl. As with many other lines, you need to follow slope number 1 before starting. Look for the obvious left curve with the Gaislachkogl on the left side. Instead of taking the curve you need to go straight ahead. On the right side there will be wooden fences. On the outside of the left curve, there will be yellow sign to inform you about the big mountain danger in this area, and that you are leaving the safe slopes. Behind this sign is the massive rocky ridge. This is the ridge you'll need to follow for this line and others in that area. It's best to check it out from the top before leaving the slopes because then you can see if it's possible to build some speed to make it up the ridge. Depending on snow conditions, you can ride or may need to hike a little along the ridge. Take care in this area. Don't slip or fall down on the right side; there are some huge cliffs here which you can check out from the gondola. After reaching something that appears to be a smaller peak, you are at the start point. This is the entry for the “Gaislachkogl off-piste variation”, but to enjoy the snow on the right of the avalanche barriers you'll need to follow the ridge right in front of you just a little bit further. The area on the ridge is totally exposed to the wind and there's never usually a lot of snow there. Stay on the right side of the ridge and find your way through the rocks. Sometimes you might need to hike a little. If you are riding too much on the right, it is just possible to ride the right side of the avalanche barriers, not the left line anymore. The ridge is where you need to make a decision about whether to go. There you find the couloir-like line, it is not as narrow as the “Gaislachkkogl off-piste variation”. Follow the natural line but stay on the right side, after it ends. Keep in mind that the area you want to ride down next is on the right side. After some metres it is possible to make a right turn and enter the second part of the line, right next to the avalanche barriers. Crossing too early to the right makes no sense, enjoy the better snow here instead of the wind exposed top of the snowy ridge. If you followed these steps, you are facing a big open off-piste. Now the decision is simply choosing your line. It is possible to go between the avalanche barriers first or just ride down on the left side of them. From here you have some hundred meters of mellow off-piste in front of you and there is no chance of getting lost. The pistes are visible below and you will end up there after finishing your line.

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

4 out of 4

In the high mountains or remote conditions, all individuals must be completely autonomous in every situation.

Best time to visit

between December and March

Features

  • Cliffs

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area