Via Ferrata Passo Santner
Description
Overall an easy ferrata, only equipped with cables in the final third of the route. Mostly it is a safe ascent along ledges and gullies. Short and easy climb on rock with some exposure. At the beginning of summer, it involves crossing a dangerous icy couloir (crampons recommended). Sure footing and alpine experience are essential due to exposed sections and short parts of free climbing (Grade I and II).
Access & starting point
From Val d'Ega to Passo di Costalunga, then follow the turnoff to Passo Nigra to reach Malga Frommer. Park at the hut and take the Re Laurino chairlift to Rifugio Fronza alle Coronelle, 2339 m (summer lift service: early June to mid-October).
Approach
Above Rifugio Fronza (open from mid-June to late September), climb rocky ledges (partially equipped) along trail 542s to reach the start of the ferrata. The section is exposed and not equipped and leads to the start via brief stretches of free climbing (Grade I and II).
Route
Medium-length excursion, which can be extended into a loop around the Catinaccio. The ascent and descent along the ferrata require sure-footedness and some alpine experience due to brief sections of free climbing and the nature of the access path. Safety installations were renewed in 2013.
Technical Details
Short ferrata not fully equipped with steel cables. Short ladder on a vertical drop. Access is partly on exposed rocky trail with some free climbing (Grade I and II). In spring, the notorious icy couloir may hold snow for a long time. The most technically demanding section is exiting the icy couloir.
Descent
Return via the same route or traverse the Gardeccia basin and cross the Passo delle Coronelle. From Rifugio Passo Santner (open June–October), descend a bit past the ferrata exit, then down to Rifugio Re Alberto I° and Rifugio Vajolet (trail 542s). Continue on the road to the junction at Passo delle Coronelle (trail 541). Climb to the Pass (trail 550) and descend on the opposite side, just as steep, back to Rifugio Fronza. This adds 430 m of ascent and 1½ hours uphill and 1½ hours downhill.
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