Ski touring traverse of Gran Paradiso
A spectacular ski mountaineering traverse on the iconic peak of the Italian Alps: the Gran Paradiso, the only 4,000-meter peak entirely within Italy. A glacial environment, vast panoramas, and an unforgettable high-altitude ski experience in the heart of Gran Paradiso National Park.
Dates
2-4 people
Participants
Location
Physical level
Experience needed
High-mountain ski mountaineering traverse around the Gran Paradiso massif, including a summit ascent (4,061 m) and overnight stays in mountain huts.
A complete and varied itinerary combining glacial environments, wide skiable slopes, and scenic ridges, crossing wild valleys and quintessential Alpine landscapes. A true journey on skis in the heart of Italy’s only 4,000-meter peak entirely within its borders.
What level is required
A solid experience in ski mountaineering is required (BSA level), along with familiarity with daily elevation gains of 1,000 to 1,500 m. Glacier travel with a rope is part of the itinerary. Therefore, good physical fitness and the ability to sustain multiple consecutive days of effort are essential.
What to expect
Progressive ascents in a glacial environment, with early morning starts for summit days, surrounded by spectacular views of Mont Blanc, Grivola, and other peaks of the Aosta Valley. Expect long, rewarding descents on glaciers and wide slopes, as well as the authentic atmosphere of Alpine huts. In short, an intense, technical, and highly rewarding experience. A tour that combines adventure, skill, and outstanding high-altitude skiing.
Program
Day 1 - Into the Heart of the Park
From Valnontey, above Cogne, we begin our adventure, gradually entering the harsh yet captivating environment of the Gran Paradiso.
The ascent to Rifugio Vittorio Sella is steady and scenic. An ideal stage to get accustomed, find your rhythm, and enjoy the first views of the area’s impressive walls.
Elevation gain: +900 m
An introductory day focused on acclimatization.
Day 2 - Crossing the Gran Serra
We enter the heart of the tour. From Rifugio Vittorio Sella, we gradually ascend to cross the Gran Serra, a natural gateway between Cogne and Valsavarenche.
The environment becomes more Alpine, the panoramas open up, and the descent toward the valley is wide and rewarding, leading to Rifugio Chabod.
Elevation gain: +1,400 m
Descent: -1,200 m
A full, varied, and technically engaging stage.
Day 3 - The Summit of Gran Paradiso
The iconic day of the traverse. We start at dawn from Rifugio Chabod, progressing across glaciers with a steady ascent to the summit plateau.
The final meters along the ridge lead to the Madonnina on the summit of Gran Paradiso (4,061 m).
From the top, enjoy vast panoramas of Mont Blanc and the Western Alps.
A long, continuous descent follows down to Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II.
Elevation gain: +1,300 m
Descent: -1,300 m
The most intense and thrilling day of the tour.
Day 4 - Into the Wild Piedmont
We leave Valsavarenche and cross the watershed, entering a more remote and tranquil environment.
The traverse toward Rifugio Pontese offers less-frequented scenery, with long slopes and a beautiful final ski down into the Piedmontese valley.
Elevation gain: +900 m
Descent: -1,500 m
A stage with truly spectacular landscapes.
Day 5 - The Grand Return Loop
The final day, the longest and most complete. From Rifugio Pontese, we ascend once more to the watershed before descending into Valeille, a valley parallel to Valnontey, thus completing the grand loop around the Gran Paradiso massif.
A physically demanding but highly rewarding stage, with a long, continuous final descent all the way to the valley floor.
Elevation gain: +1,300 m
Descent: –2,000 m
An epic conclusion to a true high-mountain traverse.
Referring guides
Gallery
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From 1 to 4 people for this event
1 person
The booking will be confirmed after availability check