SKI MOUNTAINEERING

AN UNCONTAMINATED ADVENTURE AMONG THE PEAKS

Formazza Valley is one of the historic destinations for ski mountaineering in Italy, thanks to its location among the snowiest mountains of the Alps. With vast snowfields and imposing Alpine peaks, it is the ideal place for those seeking an adventure off the beaten path, immersed in pristine nature.

Since the early days of skiing in Italy, Val Formazza has been one of the top destinations for ski mountaineers. The imposing peaks of the area, such as the Arbora and the surrounding mountains, offer spectacular and varied routes for all difficulty levels. The ski mountaineering trails are ideal for those seeking a challenge on the highest peaks, far from traditional ski resorts.

Ski mountaineering requires adequate preparation and good knowledge of the mountains. For everyone, it is highly recommended to consult local mountain guides before undertaking a ski mountaineering tour. It is also essential to check weather conditions and always consult the avalanche bulletin to ensure maximum safety during the excursion.

To mitigate risks along ski mountaineering routes, the use of proper equipment is essential. The use of an avalanche transceiver (ARTVA), shovel, probe, and a mobile phone for emergencies is recommended to ensure safety in case of unforeseen events.

Val Formazza is the ideal choice for those seeking an authentic ski mountaineering experience, away from the crowds, in a natural environment of rare beauty. Its vast snowfields and imposing peaks make every excursion a unique experience for those who wish to challenge themselves in one of the most breathtaking places in the Alps.

BASODINO MOUNT

Difficulty: BSA
Starting point: Riale
Starting altitude: 1,730 m. Summit altitude: 3,273 m.
Rest points: Rifugio Maria Luisa 2,156 m.
Duration: approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.
A wonderful hike in a wonderful setting, with a long route, a beautiful couloir (Kastell), a beautiful glacier, and a challenging final ridge.

ROTENTHALHORN OR PUNTA DI VAL ROSSA

Difficulty: BS
Starting point: Riale
Starting altitude: 1730m. Summit altitude: 2968m.
Rest points: Rifugio Maria Luisa 2156m.
Travel time: approximately 5 hours
This route runs along the Val Rossa. The peak marks the watershed between the Val Bedretto and Val Formazza.

BLINNENHORN OR BLIND HORN

Difficulty: BSA
Starting point: Riale
Starting altitude: 1,730 m. Summit altitude: 3,373 m.
Rest points: Claudio and Bruno refuge
Time: approximately 7 hours
Classic ascent to the highest peak in the Formazza Valley. Splendid views of the Bernese Oberland.

HOHSANDHORN OR PUNTA DEL SABBIONE

Difficulty: BS
Starting point: Riale
Starting altitude: 1730 m. Summit altitude: 3182 m.
Rest points: Claudio and Bruno refuge

Time: approximately 7 hours
A less frequented but extremely rewarding summit with a route that runs along the western branch of the Sabbione glacier.

OFENHORN OR PUNTA D’ARBOLA

Difficulty: BSA
Starting point: Ponte
Starting altitude: 1,274 m. Summit altitude: 3,235 m.
Rest points: Myriam Refuge 2,035 m. Margaroli Refuge 2,194 m.
Duration: approximately 7 hours
Called the Queen of the Formazza Valley. Climbing up the Vannino Valley, you can enjoy unexpected Alpine scenery until you reach the Lebendun Pass, where you join the Sabbione Glacier, which leads to the summit.

MOUNT JUPITER

Difficoltà:BS
Località partenza: Ponte
Quota di partenza: 1274m. Quota Vetta: 3009m.
Punti d’appoggio: Rifugio Myriam 2035m. Rifugio Margaroli 2194m.
Tempo percorrenza: 7h circa
Bella e interessante salita in ambiente poco frequentato. Fantastico panorama sulla Val d’Ossola.