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1,300.00

Activities

Pollux Castor Traverse

Level: Advanced
Start date: 1 June
End date: 14 September
Participants: Max 3

My goal

The Pollux Castor Traverse traverse is a captivating loop that connects two of the most beautiful 4000-meter peaks of Monte Rosa. It is an extraordinary, challenging, and varied experience. Choosing the traverse means engaging with all types of high mountain terrain, immersed in one of the most stunning landscapes of Monte Rosa. It serves as a central stop on the Spaghetti Tour, and offers a high mountain experience that introduces you to the world of high-level mountaineering. The base camp is the beautiful Ayas Guides’ refuge, nestled below the Breithorn, which can be reached from Champoluc in just over 3 hours.

The numbers of the Pollux Castor Traverse
2 peaks over 4000 m: Polluce at 4089 m, Castore at 4223 m
Elevation gain on the first day: 1000 m
Elevation gain on the second day: 1200 m

Check the webcams of Monte Rosa.

1 alpinist: € 1300,00
2 alpinists: € 700,00 / person
3 alpinists: € 500,00 / person

The price includes: IFMGA mountain guide for the 2 days of the tour, off-road taxi from Saint Jacques to the upper Verra plains, half board at the Lambronecca refuge, technical equipment, off-road taxi from Colle Bettaforca to Frachey.

Day 1
Meeting with the mountain guide at 2 PM at the Frachey cable cars, where we will check the equipment and distribute the technical gear. We will drive by jeep to the upper Verra plains, where the trail to the Lambronecca refuge begins, perched on the edge of the large Verra glacier, offering spectacular views of the Breithorn range. Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2
At dawn, we will ascend the Grande Ghiacciaio di Verra to the base of the southern ridge of Polluce. Depending on the conditions, we will tackle a steep snow slope or a mixed ridge that will lead us to a chimney equipped with chains. After passing the chimney, we will reach the summit ridge, where the statue of the Madonna with Child is located. After adjusting our gear, we will face the spectacular snowy ridge that will take us to the summit of Polluce at 4089 meters (about 2.5 to 3 hours from the refuge).

After descending along the same route, we will continue towards the majestic west face of Castore. The ascent, zigzagging between crevasses, culminates with a final 45° pitch that will lead us to the final ridge, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss side of Monte Rosa. We will reach the summit of Castore at 4225 meters in about 2.5 hours from the Ghiacciaio di Verra.

The descent towards Colle Felik will challenge us on a horizontal ridge, providing an opportunity to better understand what the traverse of the Lyskamm entails, always visible ahead of us, and perhaps consider it as a future project.

From Colle Felik, we will descend a 40° slope that will take us to the calm Ghiacciaio del Felik and the Quintino Sella refuge. To return to Frachey, we will follow the equipped ridge of Ometto and then the trail towards Colle della Bettaforca, from where we will descend by off-road vehicle.

– 5 layers of clothing for the upper body (thermal shirt, light fleece, heavy fleece, down jacket, anorak.)
– two set of gloves (soft and ski ones)
– heavy trousers (windproof)
– underpants
– gaiters
– rigid, ankle height, waterproof boots
– two pair of ski socks
– hat that covers your ears
– sunglasses (with 3 or 4 protection)
– sun screen & lip balm
– ice axe (if are used to it)
– harness & crampons
– headlamp
– sleeping bag liner
– 1lt water bottle/thermos
– poles
– helmet (recommended but not compulsory)

 

If you have any doubts about the necessary equipment, click here! You’ll find a detailed guide and links to products recommended by the Monte Rosa Guides.

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!

Pollux Castor Traverse

1,300.00


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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