Colle del Lys

Gressoney La Trinité

Monte Rosa

A mandatory step to access the highest 4000m in the region

Ski Touring Moderate

Distance
3.4 km
Ascent
972 m
Descent
1 m
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
3.3 km
High Point
4.2 km
Gradient
46˚
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Colle del Lys Map

This is a popular ski touring route which is generally considered to be moderate. It's extremely remote, it features medium exposure (e2) and is typically done between March and September. From a low point of 3.3 km to the maximum altitude of 4.2 km, the route covers 3.4 km, 972 vertical metres of ascent and 1 vertical metres of descent. It's graded 2.2 and Labande grade 3. You'll need rope, skins and crampons to complete it safely.

Description

Colle del Lys is a mandatory place to reach in order to gain access to the main 4000m peaks in the area. This Colle divides Italy from Switzerland and just climbing it alone is a great adventure

Difficulty

Moderate

Slopes become slightly steeper at around 25-30 degrees.

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 March and September

Features

  • Glacier
  • Walk Required

Equipment required

  • Rope
  • Skins
  • Crampons

Similar routes nearby

5.2 km away

Liskamm West Summit (4479 m)

Liskamm West Summit (4479 m)

Venture up Switzerland’s famously treacherous Liskamm 4000er, affectionately nicknamed the “people eater”.

Severe Ski Touring

Distance
15 km
Ascent
1.3 km
Descent
2 km

5.9 km away

Berni Couloir

Berni Couloir

One of the most aesthetic couloirs on this side of the mountain

Severe Ski Touring

Distance
2.9 km
Ascent
55 m
Descent
880 m
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Guidebooks in this area

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