Mount Pramaggiore is one of the most captivating ski mountaineering destinations in the Friulian Dolomites. The route starting from Forni di Sopra crosses the enchanting Val di Suola, reaches the Flaiban-Pacherini Hut, and continues towards saddles and open slopes that offer spectacular views and highly rewarding descents.
Ascent: from Val di Suola to the Pramaggiore saddles
From the bridge over the Tagliamento River, follow the Palas forest road, usually snow-covered until late April. The trail climbs the Val di Suola along the summer path, leading to the Pacherini Hut—an ideal spot for a short break.
From the hut, two options open up:
- Below the Siòn – Torrione Comici buttress, a more direct and scenic line
- Along the slopes beneath Cima di Suola, wider and more regular
- Before reaching Passo di Suola, choose the option that best suits the conditions:
- Forcella Sidòn → the more technical variant, suitable for experienced skiers
- Elevation 2058 m below Monte Rua → the easier and safer alternative
From here, continue to Forcella Pramaggiore and follow the summer route to the summit of Mount Pramaggiore. The final stretch requires removing skis; steep-skiing enthusiasts may carry them for the descent.
Equipment and safety
This itinerary requires solid mountaineering experience and proper gear:
- ice axe
- crampons
- rope (recommended in case of hard snow or exposed sections)
Near the saddles, especially in spring, the snow can be very firm: it is often necessary to strap skis onto the backpack and proceed with crampons.
Starting early is essential to avoid slushy snow on the way back through Val di Suola.
Descent: gullies and open slopes back to Forni di Sopra
From the summit, descend through snowy gullies, keeping an oblique line to the left until you reach Forcella Pramaggiore again.
From here you can choose:
- Forcella Sidòn → for those seeking steeper slopes
- Elevation 2058 m → the more comfortable and safer option
The return follows the ascent route, with the possibility of exploring the gentle Grua slopes before re-entering Val di Suola and descending to Forni di Sopra.
