The freeride descent to the Lac de Moiry reservoir in Zinal is not particularly technically demanding. However, the descent shines with the typical charms of the main ridge of the Valais Alps, the characteristic dam wall and some crisp alternatives. This tour in the rear Val d'Anniviers can only be recommended to those who appreciate peace and seclusion and at the same time don't want to climb too much - also and perhaps especially because of the return journey on the Postbus. This freeride tour is already skiable according to the current snow conditions (end of Dec. 2011) - PowderGuide tested!
Tour description
The starting point of the freeride descent is the mountain station of the "Corne de Soirebois" chairlift. Follow the ridge southwards until you reach the "Col de Soirebois" saddle. From here, the descent is almost self-explanatory, as from this point you have a direct view of the dam that forms Lac de Moiry. The descent to the reservoir is a rather leisurely one. If you want a wilder ride, you can choose a route that leads directly into the valley without the "detour" via the reservoir. However, this rocky terrain is two levels more challenging and is only recommended with local knowledge or a local guide.
Once you have passed the dam wall, it is best to simply follow the left side of the valley to the north. This part requires a lot of pushing in slow snow conditions. As soon as the valley widens again and makes a small bend, turn right into a shortcut that leads directly to Grimentz, where you can take the post bus to Zinal or visit the ski area in Grimentz.
Information
Difficulty (5-level scale): ***
Special hazards: Entry couloir, route finding
Average steepness/Maximum steepness: 35°/ 40°
Exposure: N-O
Altitude difference start and finish: 2.896 m | 1,580 m
Altitude difference uphill and downhill: 0 m | 1300 m
Duration: 2 hours
Best time of year: December - April
Accommodation: Various in Val d'Anniviers
Addresses:Sierre-Anniviers Tourisme, +41 (0)848 84 80 27, Remontees mecaniques Zinal SA, +41 (0)274 75 13 62
How to get there: AB Martigny to Sierre, exit Val d'Anniviers almost to the end of the valley in the direction of Zinal
Topographical maps: Ski touring maps 1:50000: 273S Montana, 283S Arolla; National map 1:25.000: 1327 Evolène, 1307 Vissoie
Book tip: This freeride tour is described in the book "PowderGuide: The best freeride areas in the Alps" (p. 242ff)
