Sellrain on 02.05.2025 | kurz.ski

Snow condition

Remarkable snow conditions for the selected altitude band, similar to a tidal basin that is constantly filled by avalanches and slowly tapers off with robust summer snow in late spring. Avalanches also scatter stones and deposit themselves in nodules, which is not very conducive to skiing, but the shape of the band down to almost 2000m is nevertheless astonishing (hence 3 stars).

Snow quality

Firn up to Sulz in the top third, then avalanche tracks offer good grip, finally through the tangle of nodules with reasonably good steering options (soft, but quite a few boulders). Special attention should be paid to a frozen steep step - I slipped when stepping down and only realized after the supposed mishap that it was even better this way (grippy ice).

Setting off 2 to more hours earlier would be sensible, steps in the gully section with crampons went deep in places (knees to thighs), but mostly doable on the ascent between 10-12:00 with more effort, it didn't harm the descent. We bypassed the first ice section on the ascent, on the descent it was probably only possible so late in the day.

Overall impression

A very individual CR, as hardly anyone is looking for something like this. The fascination lies in the possibilities away from distant glaciers in small-scale, enclosed bands in an all-round alpine environment. It is surprising to find such a long route without a long approach. Softened up, the whole thing is certainly more fun than frozen hard. The overall impression is based on the mix of natural gems, the challenge on offer and the opportunities that arise. On the "Day for the Protection of the Alps", the last stop was at the LeoKino - the film "Requiem in White" by Harry Putz - a recommendation for everyone...