Via Ferrata Vernale Ferrata (Ferrata Ombretta)
Description
The short Ferrata Ombretta is an equipped section within a longer route that climbs the Val de Contrin to reach the summit of Cima Ombretta. This demanding route offers a magnificent view of the imposing southern face of the Marmolada. The route involves significant elevation gain and is best done in good physical condition.
Access & starting point
From Trentino: Follow the Val di Fassa to reach Canazei. Continue towards Passo Fedaia for a few kilometres until you reach Alba. Park in the large (paid) lot near the Ciampac cable car. From Bolzano: Follow the Val Gardena to Passo Sella, descend to Canazei, then on to Alba. From Veneto: Follow the Passo Fedaia road down to Canazei and on to Alba.
Approach
Park your car and take trail CAI 602, which enters the forest. Cross a stream, ignore the fork to 602A (which descends to Penia), and climb a steep zigzag path to reach Baita Locia Contrin (1736 m – about 30 min from the car). Continue up a wide valley—Val de Contrin. Stay on CAI 602, ignoring paths to Colac and Passo San Nicolò/Col Ombert. After approx. 1h30, you reach Rifugio Contrin (2016 m), where you can optionally stay the night. From here, follow trail CAI 607 through forest, ascending south-southeast. Ignore signs to 606 and 610, and follow the trail toward Passo Ombretta and Forcella Marmolada.
Route
The ferrata follows a logical line, climbing a slope with a gentler incline than the rocky bastion above the cave. Technically, the ferrata has no major difficulties, though it should not be underestimated due to its placement in a long, demanding high-mountain itinerary. The ground is not tiring and offers a wide variety of views and hiking situations.
Technical Details
Ferrata Ombretta (also known as Ferrata Vernale) is a short, beginner-friendly route suitable for newcomers to ferratas. It is set in a high-altitude environment and reaches Cima Ombretta at 3000 m, which, although not too difficult to reach, should not be underestimated. The excursion has a significant elevation gain, making it physically demanding. The rugged mountain setting and the impressive view of the Marmolada's southern wall from the Ombretta ridge make the long hike worthwhile. The ferrata gear has been recently renovated and is in excellent condition.
Descent
From the saddle, follow a short slightly exposed ridge, then descend via scree and a trail, eventually reaching a short equipped section and then bivouac Dal Bianco (2730 m – about 1 hr from summit). Continue on trail 606 toward Contrin along Val Ombretta, with stunning views of Marmolada's south face. The trail later intersects trail 610 (from Forcella Marmolada) and continues to Contrin (about 1 hr 20 min from Passo Ombretta). From Contrin, follow the same route back to Alba di Canazei.
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