Monviso - Normal Route

Day 1: Pian del Re (2020 m) – Quintino SELLA Refuge (2640 m)

From the Pian del Re parking lot towards the imposing shapes of Monviso and Visolotto (south), head toward the source of the Po. From here starts a steep mule track ascending with some switchbacks to the grassy basin where Lake Fiorenza lies (2113 m - 20 minutes). After passing a small saddle, you reach the small Lake Chiaretto (2264 m). The path continues to the right, bypassing the valley floor and maintaining elevation above the lake, then ascending diagonally ever steeper along the scree towards the slopes of Viso Mozzo. The trail makes its way between the boulders and, with short switchbacks, skirts Viso Mozzo and reaches the Viso Pass (2650 m) on its slopes. A short slightly descending section leads to the Quintino Sella Refuge (2640 m).

Day 2: Quintino Sella Refuge (2640 m) – Monviso (3841 m)

From Sagnette Pass you reach it in about an hour from the Quintino Sella refuge, first following a good trail leading to the base of the gully below the Pass. Here the trail becomes steeper and soon turns into a track (yellow marks); a good supply of ropes and steel chains facilitates the ascent. From Sagnette Pass (2991 m) head towards the large stone cairn built on the head of the Viso Glacier, first descending into the Forcioline valley along a trail trace and then following numerous cairns marking the route. You cross the basin once occupied by the glacier, pointing toward a reddish wall, then turn right and climb a ramp of piled blocks up to the metal structure of the Andreotti Bivouac (3225 m, usable only in emergencies). You then reach the base of the tiny Sella Glacier, which you ascend until encountering a ledge that cuts across the mountain face almost flatly. Continue left to the foot of a small waterfall; from here you follow yellow marks leading to the summit. Now climb along a rocky ridge past the spire called “Duomo di Milano” (3500 m approx.); pass some rugged rocks and arrive at the base of a small reddish wall. Continue right along a crack, cross a slab, and turning left gain a good terrace. The next crux must be climbed through small chimneys (“i Fornelli”); this is a mandatory passage of grade II+, which can become challenging if icy. You then reach a shoulder on the southeast ridge, from which the Sella Refuge is visible. Continue passing under a distinctive pinnacle called the “Eagle’s Head,” cross a gully (caution with snow), and gain the East Ridge. Finally, turn left and after passing the last easy rises of the ridge, reach the summit.