Colere – Petto peak
This itinerary is suitable for experienced ski mountaineers. The Colere – Pizzo di Petto route offers unique and breathtaking views of Presolana and the entire valley.
Technical data
Difficulty: intermediate-advanced
Elevation gain: over 1000 meters
Estimated time: 5/6 hours
Starting point
The route can be started from the access point on Via Carbonera, a short distance from the Colere Mountain ski lifts. Parking location.
During peak winter days, parking at the ski lifts may be paid. We recommend checking on site to avoid inconvenience.
Route
From the large lower dirt parking lot (1050 m a.s.l.), follow the uphill road that runs along the left side of the small village.
Once at the top, take the mule track that ascends the mountain following the clear ski mountaineering route signs until reaching some charming chalets just outside the forest (1240 m).
Continue carefully ascending the downhill ski slope: keep to the right following the snowmaking system (behind the snow guns).
After 200 meters, cross the slope laterally (CAUTION) and continue along the mule track.
Once you reach the intermediate station Polzone (1570 m), continue along the far right edge, ascending a section of the slope (CAUTION: sometimes an alternative passage is available beyond the safety net; it is more scenic and safer to take this route as it avoids re-entering the piste).
After about 300 meters further up, continue along the clear ski mountaineering track that moves away from the slopes. Further ahead, with several switchbacks, ascend the gully that leads to Conchetta (1790 m).
From here, follow the track that starts from Teveno Barbarossa (C.A.I. 431), which continues flat before ascending, after a long traverse, into a wide hollow below the summit. Keep to the right along the prominent ridge that leads to the obvious notch on the left of the summit.
Depending on conditions, reach the Pizzo Petto summit (2262 m) on foot or on skis, being careful of potential cornices to the NE.
The descent follows the ascent route or, at the end of the valley before the forest, keep right and ascend towards Monte Ferrante, reaching the ski slopes in view.
Snowshoers
The ascent can also be done with snowshoes. In this case, you can take advantage of the chairlift that goes from Colere up to the base of Monte Ferrante. Traverse extensively under the mountain and ascend to the Conchetta Valley notch, then continue as described above.
During some periods of the year, especially sunny periods, the area is subject to avalanches. We recommend contacting the tourist offices or the local CAI subsection before attempting the excursion. For ski mountaineers, an avalanche transceiver (ARTVA), probe, and shovel are essential.