Description

This is a classic ski tour which takes in a huge amount of fabulous scenery in return for a relatively small amount of skinning.

It's an ideal intermediate tour and doesn't involve anything technical, although it does pass through avalanche terrain. Start in the village of Campo Carlo Magno, just north of the larger and better known town of Madonna di Campiglio.

Ski/pole east across cross country ski tracks (which cover what is a golf course in summer) to reach a clear track into a forest. Skin along the track as it leads you gently north-east before swinging due east into the valley that makes up the bulk of this tour.

As you progress into the valley and emerge out of the trees the angle of the slope increases and you quickly find yourself in high mountain terrain.

The valley can be climbed (and descended) just about anywhere so take this line as a suggestion for an ascent route and choose exactly where you go according to the prevailing conditions. There are not many features to worry about in the valley so just enjoy the ascent and the wild ambience that the towering peaks around you provide. Eventually you'll come to the col at the head of the valley, and what a col it is! There are huge views in all directions and it all feels disproportionally "out there" considering how close you are to civilisation. Once you're done admiring the views and ambience, ski back down the valley, picking a line according to where the best snow is.

Upon reaching the cross country tracks/golf course either put skins back on to reach the road again or simply put your skis on your shoulder and hike for 10 minutes.

Grab an Italian coffee and toast your day!