A rope team climbing Gran Paradiso

MOUNTAINEERING / ASCENT

Gran Paradiso

Two days in the heart of the high mountains.

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RUNOUT / MOUNTAIN GUIDES
Duration2 days
WhenFrom May to September
WhereValsavarenche
For whomGood preparation and first mountaineering experiences

THE EXPERIENCE

Gran Paradiso

Gran Paradiso is one of the most iconic mountains of the Graian Alps and the highest peak entirely located in Italian territory. A two-day experience in the heart of the National Park of the same name, among wild valleys, imposing rock walls and spectacular glacial environments. The climb develops in a high mountain environment of great beauty, where the landscapes progressively change: from the larch woods and alpine pastures of Valsavarenche you reach the moraines and large glaciers at the foot of the peak.

Two days to experience the Gran Paradiso, immerse yourself in the high mountain environment and conquer one of the most representative peaks of the Alps.

THE PATH

The program.

Day 1 – Climb to the Vittorio Emanuele II refuge or Chabod

Our meeting is scheduled in Pont, in Valsavarenche. From here we will begin the climb on foot along paths that develop through larch forests and large alpine pastures, with splendid views of the mountains of the National Park.

Progressively the landscape will give way to a more rocky and wild environment, until you reach the Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II (2,732 m) or the Rifugio Chabod (2,750 m).

Once we arrive at the refuge, we will prepare for the next day's ascent, checking the equipment and studying the progression techniques with crampons and ice axe. We will spend the night here, immersed in the atmosphere of the high mountains.

Day 2 – Gran Paradiso 4,061 m

Departure is scheduled for the early hours of the morning. We will begin the climb crossing moraines and glacial slopes, progressively gaining altitude until we reach the wide snow-covered spaces of the Gran Paradiso glacier.

The roped progression will lead us towards the upper part of the mountain, through an environment characterized by crevasses and spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.

We will finally reach the summit ridge, where the most characteristic passage of the ascent awaits us: some rock passages that lead to the famous Madonnina, near the summit at 4,061 metres.

From the top we will be able to admire an extraordinary panorama of the great mountains of the Western Alps. After a well-deserved break we will begin the descent along the ascent route, returning to the refuge and subsequently to Pont, where our adventure will end.

The program is adapted to weather, terrain conditions and group level. Itinerary and logistics are confirmed with the guide before departure.

THE DETAILS THAT COUNT

Practical information.

Technical level: 4/10

The climb to Gran Paradiso takes place on glacial terrain and presents generally moderate technical difficulties. You must know how to use crampons and an ice axe and be familiar with rope progression. The final part presents some passages on rock that require attention and safety in movement.

Physical preparation: 6/10

The experience develops over two consecutive days. The first involves approximately 750–800 meters of positive altitude difference to reach the refuge, while the second is more challenging, with approximately 1,300 meters of positive altitude difference to the summit, followed by the descent. Good physical condition and a decent habit of walking in the mountains are required, also considering the several hours of activity in a high altitude environment.

The details that matter

  • Duration: 2 days
  • Maximum altitude: 4,061 m – Gran Paradiso
  • Altitude difference: approximately 750–800 m on the first day and 1,300 m on the second uphill
  • Overnight stay: Vittorio Emanuele II Refuge or Chabod Refuge
  • Environment: Alpine paths, moraines, glaciers and rocky ridges
  • Accompaniment: Alpine Guide

Who is it aimed at?

The climb to Gran Paradiso is aimed at people who wish to experience mountaineering at high altitude, tackling a classic itinerary of the Western Alps.

It is suitable for those who are in good physical condition, are used to walking in the mountains and are interested in dealing with the glacial environment. It is advisable to already have minimal mountaineering experience and familiarity with the use of crampons and ice axe.

It is not necessary to be an expert mountaineer, but it is important to have good physical preparation and the ability to face a challenging climb at high altitude, accompanied by an Alpine Guide

From 1 to 4 participants.

Prices per person

ParticipantsPer person
1 person€700
2 people€400
3 people€350
4 people€300

BEFORE YOU LEAVE

Your pack,
made simple.

Technical equipment and logistics:

Don't worry about the technical material, we'll take care of it! We will provide you with everything you need to face the climb safely: mountaineering boots, ice axe, crampons, harness and helmet.

Equipment and clothing:

  • trekking poles
  • warm beanie
  • cap with visor
  • sun cream
  • glacier sunglasses
  • neck gaiter
  • thermal base layers for upper and lower body
  • breathable fleece
  • insulating fleece
  • down jacket
  • waterproof shell type jacket
  • mountaineering trousers
  • light gloves
  • warm insulated gloves
  • mountain socks

KEEP EXPLORING

Another
horizon.

More experiences on similar terrain.

Enlarged photograph