Ski tour to Mt Pizzo Rosso Piccolo

Starting at the Fondo Valle mountain hut in Casere, we cross the small bridge on our right leading to the small Holy Spirit Church. From here, we hike on our skis through the right side of the valley bottom towards the Labesaualm mountain hut (1,751 m a.s.l.). From here, the trail gets steeper and leads us into the Valle del Vento (Wind Valley, literally) with its huge avalanche deposits. Taking a slight right bend we reach the so-called "Burgl", a slope leading directly to the Giogo Lungo saddle.

We pass the Giogo Lungo mountain hut (2,603 m) on our right and continue our tour crossing a short steep slope on our left. Consequently, we turn right and hike moderately upwards through the Rötkees Glacier (crevasse danger!) until we reach the saddle (3,200 m). Pay attention on the snow cornices here! From here, we have to hike other 90 m of altitude until we finally reach the summit of Mt Pizzo Rosso Piccolo in the Venediger Group, the sister mountain of the impressive Mt Pizzo Rosso (3,495 m). From Mt Pizzo Rosso Piccolo, we enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding peaks: Mt Cima del Vento (3,051 m), Mt Picco dei Tre Signori (3,499 m), Mt Pizzo Rosso (3,495 m), Mt Punta Merbe (3,090 m) as well as other peaks of the Venediger Group and the Vedrette di Ries mountain range.

We descend on the ascent route, enjoying the beautiful firn snow in the upper section of the glacier area. In case of very safe snow conditions you can chose a more direct route, not passing the Giogo Lungo saddle. The lower part is more difficult to ski because of the avalanche deposits. However, it is worth the effort.

Please note: we recommend to do this ski tour in spring or late spring. It requests safe snow conditions, the left mountain flanks on the lower part of the tour should be completely empty of snow. Moreover, this tour should be started very early after a clear and cold night. The highlight of this tour, beside the great mountain panorama, is the Rötkees glacier area, which offers a wonderful descent on beautiful powder snow. You can also stay overnight in the winter shelter of the Giogo Lungo mountain hut.

Author: BS