Valvel Traverse

On the left side, follow the signs for Valvelspitze/Rabenkopf on path number 7. You gain altitude quickly. At about 2500m, turn right towards Rabenkopf and reach the Schnalser col over a lot of scree and finally somewhat steep terrain. The path to the Schnalser col north of the gorge, as marked in the Alpine Club app, no longer exists.

From the Schnalser col, ascend southwards directly along the ridge and reach the Northern Valvelspitze with moderate difficulties (mostly I, one spot II). Some sections can be bypassed. 

The ridge route to the Valvel notch is quite exposed. Therefore, intuitively descend through a gully into the bowl southeast of the summit towards the former Gawlez glacier. Crampons and the ability to read terrain are advantageous here. In the bowl, keep to the right to lose as little altitude as possible. Once you see the Valvel notch, ascend the steep gully/slope at its easiest point. Directly on the ridge (II), continue southwards (dodging right a few times) to the Middle Valvelspitze.

Descending into the Matscher Valley from the notch after the summit is possible, but the terrain is rather loose and at least 35 degrees steep. The safer route is continuing directly on the ridge, which never exceeds difficulty grade II. However, it is partially very steep and requires more caution and slower progress when there is snow. Crampons or microspikes are a must, an ice axe provides more security in some sections until you reach the main summit of the Valvelspitze with its famous marble table offering a magnificent view of the Weißkugel and a grand panoramic view of the Vinschgau mountain world.

From the summit of the Southern Valvelspitze, follow the markings southwards into a basin, overcome a short ascent heading east, and then continue descending on a marked trail to the gorge.

From the gorge, it only takes 30 minutes by MTB to return to the starting point.