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The Hidden Spine

A great line in Vassicohkka

Ski Touring Extreme

Distance
15 km
Ascent
1.2 km
Descent
1.2 km
Duration
6-7 hrs
Low Point
508 m
High Point
1.5 km
Gradient
56˚
The Hidden Spine Map

The Hidden Spine is located near the south summit of Vassi Massif. It's a great and challenging line.

Description

Start your approach from Vassijaure railway station. Go under the tunnel and follow the most obvious route towards the valley. It will take 2hrs or more to reach the point where you can see this ski line.

At this point it's good to look at your surroundings and think about potential dangers. Take your time here and make a plan. The biggest avalanche problem can be in the less technical area of the line and not the part where the most technical skill is needed.

Start moving up the slope all the way until you can't tour anymore. Make the switch to climbing. It's important to have crampons and at least one ice axe. The wall will be icy in some spots so checking out the route you want to come down is a good idea. This way you know how the snow is all the way.

Once you reach the top, change to riding mode under a huge and - most likely - icy rockwall.

Descend the same way you came up. It's very steep in the beginning but mellows out in the midway. Ride all the way to the lake at the bottom. This is a special line that requires special conditions and special commitment.

Difficulty

Extreme

Extreme skiing terrain above 45 degrees. These routes are reserved for experienced experts.

High Exposure (E3)

3 out of 4

In case of a fall, death is highly likely.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between April and May

Features

  • Alpine
  • Single Descent
  • Ski Mountaineering

Equipment required

  • Rope
  • Skins
  • Ice axe
  • Crampons

Similar routes nearby