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Gampenbahn Rinne

Ischgl

A brilliant couloir which is best skied in spring snow.

Also in Graubünden, Switzerland

Freeride Skiing Severe

Distance
2.4 km
Ascent
2 m
Descent
835 m
Low Point
1.9 km
High Point
2.8 km
Gradient
39˚
Gampenbahn Rinne Map

With its wide open faces and varied terrain, Ischgl is something of a mecca for spring snow and routes like this demonstrate why. The route can obviously be skied in powder too, but skiing it in spring reduces the risk of avalanche and is generally faster and more fun.

Description

From the top of the Palinkopf or Gampenbahn lift, follow red piste number 40 for 2 hairpin turns and then drop off right into this line. The main couloir isn't visible from the point where you drop in, and the whole entry slope rolls away, giving the start of the line an air of seriousness. There are cliffs around as you enter the line so do approach with caution, but trust that the couloir will reveal itself as you get closer to it!

The exact entry you take into the line will depend on conditions - the line here is the best one provided you sufficient and stable snow. If this entrance proves impossible, ski right to reach the Gampenbahn lift cables, ski under these for 50 metres and then go back left across a hanging slope and try to access the couloir from this.

However you get into it the couloir is pleasantly steep but not scary, narrow but not tight; in other words it is an awful lot of fun! Surf down it, skiing either the left or right bank as and when they look appealing and exit onto wider slopes below.

Once onto the wider slopes keep pushing out to the right and enjoy some more fantastic skiing all the way back to the foot of the Gampenbahn chairlift.

Difficulty

Severe

Steep skiing at 38-45 degrees. This requires very good technique and the risk of falling has serious consequences.

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

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between February and April

Features

  • Couloir

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area