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490.00

Activities

Climb to Castore Peak (Group Hike)

Level: Advanced
Start date: 20 June
End date: 14 September
Participants: Max 3

My goal

If you have already conquered Capanna Margherita and feel the call of high-altitude mountaineering, Castor mountaineering (4226 m) is your next natural goal.

The climb starts from Rifugio Quintino Sella (3585 m) and crosses the Ghiacciaio del Felik, featuring a varied and stimulating route. The final ridge, sharp and exposed, requires concentration, but is never excessively difficult, even in its steepest and most technical sections.

Castor mountaineering is a balanced experience that mixes intense emotions and physical effort. From the top, we will gaze down at Gressoney, quiet and asleep, as the sunrise paints the Lyskamm in orange hues. In the distance, we will spot the lights of Capanna Gnifetti, almost keeping us company. Reaching the summit will be overwhelming: the Matterhorn, Gran Paradiso, Mont Blanc, and Monviso will fill the horizon, offering a unique sensation of smallness and wonder in the face of the grandeur of the Alps.

Read here the story of an ascent to Castor Peak.

Group Hike  € 490,00 / person

The hike will be confirmed upon reaching the minimum number of participants, which is 3.

The price includes: IFMGA mountain guide for 2 days, half board at Quintino Sella refuge, half board of the guide, round-trip cable car to Colle Bettaforca, technical equipment if needed (harness, crampons)

Not included in the price: accident insurance (recommended), meals not specified for yourself and the guide, and everything not mentioned under the “price includes” section.

Day 1

Meeting with the guide at the ticket office of the lifts in Staffal, Gressoney. Equipment check and distribution of technical materials. We will take the cable car to Colle della Bettaforca (2700 m) and then begin the ascent of about 3 hours and 30 minutes to Rifugio Quintino Sella (3585 m), including a short section of an easy via ferrata that is partially exposed in the final stretch. Dinner and overnight stay at Rifugio Quintino Sella.

Day 2

We will depart at dawn for an ascent of about 3 hours and 30 minutes to Punta Castore (4226 m). The route will offer several surprises: we will start with a gentle path that will then become steep and almost technical, leading us to the majestic ridge. This ridge, thin and exposed but not too long, will make our ascent an unforgettable experience. During the descent, we will follow the same trail back to Rifugio Quintino Sella, arriving in Gressoney around 4:30 PM.

Upper Body:

  • Technical shirt (also short-sleeved)
  • Long-sleeved thermal shirt
  • Fleece
  • Down jacket
  • Waterproof/windproof shell jacket

Lower Body:

  • 2 pairs of thermal or ski socks
  • Thermal leggings
  • Windproof mountaineering pants

Gloves and Head Accessories:

  • Warm gloves
  • Spare lightweight gloves
  • Warm hat (covers the ears)
  • Neck buff

Eye Protection:

  • Sunglasses with category 3 or 4 protection
  • Ski goggles for low-visibility conditions

Technical Gear:

  • 30/35-liter backpack
  • 10 or 12-point crampons
  • Ice axe with steel blade
  • Helmet
  • Lightweight, adjustable harness
  • Telescopic poles

Essential Accessories:

  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Headlamp and power bank
  • 1-liter stainless steel thermos
  • SPF 50+ sunscreen
  • Hydrating lip balm
  • Energy snacks and basic medication

Essential Personal Hygiene:

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Small comb
  • Lightweight, compact towel

ATTENTION: The sleeping bag liner is mandatory in all shelters. We recommend a lightweight but, above all, reusable sleeping bag liner. Let’s protect the mountains from waste. We use this one.

 

Practicing mountaineering involves risks, including severe or fatal injuries. All Monte Rosa guides are certified by IFMGA and are committed to minimizing dangers. It is important to know that risk cannot be completely eliminated, and this is an aspect you confirm you accept by signing a reservation contract for an ascent with us.

The guides will assist you in reaching your goals and in having an enjoyable experience. It is essential to trust their judgment and accept the decisions they make. Being well-prepared and in good physical shape is crucial to ensure safety during the ascents.

If the guide believes you are not ready for the booked ascent, they will suggest an appropriate alternative. In the event of unexpected bad weather that makes the ascent dangerous, the guide will propose a mutually agreed alternative ascent.


FAQ #1 – Will I suffer from altitude sickness?
High altitude can cause altitude sickness, with symptoms such as headaches, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Gradual acclimatization helps reduce the risk and intensity of symptoms. Being in good physical shape and well-trained makes the experience less exhausting.
FAQ #2 – Are there any medications that can help with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is highly subjective, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It is advisable to bring only the headache and nausea medications that you are already familiar with and have used before. Nevertheless, we recommend consulting your primary healthcare provider for personalized advice
FAQ #3 – What happens if I feel unwell during the ascent?
If you feel unwell in the hut, we will organize an early descent. In the case of severe discomfort during the hike, we will turn back. In the event of severe illness, the guide will alert the rescue services, and you will be taken to the hospital by helicopter.
FAQ #4 – Can I join a group if I’m alone?
Certainly! Choose your experience from the group hikes page by clicking here
FAQ #5 – Do I need a sleeping bag?
No, Monterosa’s refuges provide pillows, duvets, or blankets! However, the use of a sleeping bag liner is mandatory, and you can purchase it for a minimal cost at specialized stores. Click here for more information (affiliate link)
FAQ #6 – Can I rent high mountain clothing and equipment?
You can rent equipment (boots, poles, ice axe) in Alagna, Gressoney and Champoluc. However, it will not be possible to rent clothing.
FAQ #7 – If I do not reach the summit, will I be refunded?
No, no refund is provided.
FAQ #8 – What is the required fitness level for the excursion?
To successfully complete this experience, you need good physical endurance and training that allows you to sustain at least 4/5 hours of uphill walking plus the same amount in descent. Preparing with specific training will help you tackle the challenges of the route and fully enjoy the adventure.

Populate the form and secure your spot now!

Climb to Castore Peak (Group Hike)

490.00


INSURANCE

Our packages do not include insurance. Since many of you are members of mountain clubs, which offer excellent coverage for their members, or already have personal insurance, we aim to avoid redundancy.

However, if you are not yet insured (and we highly recommend you consider it) and would like coverage for:

  • Medical assistance and expenses in case of injury, 24/7 assistance and reimbursement of medical expenses, Search and rescue costs, Emergency support, Reimbursement for unused lessons, equipment, accommodations, and passes, Civil liability for damages to third parties during outdoor activities

you can explore the available options on Europ Assistance or on L’Arca Assicurazioni.

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