Croda Alta (3,280 m) is a classic and demanding destination for ski mountaineering in the Val di Vizze. The route crosses meadows, forests, valleys, and glaciers, leading to the summit with breathtaking views over the border Alps.
Route
- Start: from the Sagstallhof farm at the end of the valley.
- First section: climb the large meadow to reach the Pfitscher Pass road, follow it for about 300 m, then turn left into the forest clearing. After 10 minutes, rejoin the Pfitscher Joch road.
- Towards the pass: continue to the second hairpin bend, then turn left through sparse forest to the edge of the tree line.
- Junction Griaplalm/Pfitscherjoch: pass the fourth hairpin bend to reach the signposts.
- Windtal (Wind Valley): ascend the steep gully into the valley, then turn left towards the border ridge.
- Stampflkees glacier: head right towards Zillerflecke and climb along the glacier to the base of the eastern slope.
- Eastern slope: tackle the steep ascent (up to 35°) towards Schrammacher.
- South ridge and summit: follow the ridge to the summit cross. In poor conditions, skis are deposited 100–200 m below the top.
Descent
Return along the same route.
