Exploring the conditions

11.03.2020-12.03.2020 - The day begins late and comfortably because we have nothing big planned today. Richard and I are going for a gentle ski tour to the Alpeiner Scharte (1630 Hm) to explore the ice and snow conditions in the valley. There are some highlights along the route, such as the Moonwalk (WI6/M7, 1000 m) and the Schrammacher Diagonale (M5-, 800 m). Unfortunately, we quickly realize that the spring like temperatures have quite affected the ice falls. The ice falls of the Moonwalk are still standing, but some of them have large transverse cracks. However, the conditions along the Schrammacher Diagonale look very promising. Definitely a target for one of the next days when it is supposed to get colder again. On the upper part of the ski tour we are facing enormous snow pilling which wastes a lot of our time. After a short rest in the Alpeiner Scharte we decide to descend via the Geraer Hut to inspect the winter shelter. The shelter is open, very cozy and offers a good opportunity to shorten the approach for some of the tours.

On the following day the temperatures are even higher. We therefore decide to use the day for shopping, planning and relaxing.

No relying on the weather forecast

13.03.2020 - In the morning the clouds are hanging low and there is no trace of the peaks surrounding us. But the weather forecast promises that it would clear up in the afternoon with cold temperatures. Therefore, Richard and I plan to summit the Olperer (2300 Hm) starting from the valley of Vals. Using touring skis, we ascent again to the Geraer Hut where we have a short break. Unfortunately, the visibility is not getting better in the afternoon. Only occasionally the sky opens up and gives a view of the beautiful winter landscape. Luckily, the GPS track, I loaded onto my watch the day before, leads the way. When we arrive at the foot of the Olperer North Ridge (2-3, 350 m), it is freezing cold and windy at a temperature of -10 degrees Celsius. We strap on the crampons and set off with one ice tool each. The climbing on the ridge is sometimes tricky because the smooth rock slabs are only covered by a thin layer of snow. Due to the crusted snow and the bad visibility, the descent using touring skis is also exciting. When we arrive back in the valley, Barbara is already waiting to serve us dinner. Late in the evening Monika, Richard’s girlfriend, and Bernhard, Richard’s brother, arrive in the valley, too.

Overnight stay: N 47.037525, E 11.578625

Lessons learned

• When ski touring in spring, always bring along an agent to prevent snow pilling on the skins.
• Even the most reliable weather app may provide a wrong forecast.