Backcountry Skiing in Alagna: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Nestled into the Valsesia valley in the province of Vercelli, Piedmont, Alagna is an incredible backcountry skiing destination.

Home to just 430 full-time residents, the idyllic and sleepy town comes alive when the first snows arrive. Alagna is well regarded as one of the freeride capitals of the Alps, something to keep in mind when you head to the town for some backcountry skiing.

Among the most popular options for experienced backcountry skiers is the 10-kilometer long Balma descent. Beginning at 2.000 meters in elevation, the long and thrilling backcountry ride takes you down into the valley through the trees. The elevation drop is about 1.500 meters. Perfect for ambitious powder hounds.

Heading out to the Cavallo glacier is another popular option. This run last for 14 kilometers and takes you down about 2.200 meters into idyllic town.

Stunning scenery

Alagna is blessed with some of the best scenery in all of the Italian Alps. Take in magnificent views of some of the most iconic mountains in Italy, along with alpine vallyers, formidable glaciers and evergreen forests. Any backcountry skiing trip combines adventure with amazing views and will leave you wanting to come back for more. Don’t forget your camera!

Convenient location

Whether you plan on simply sticking around the village itself or heading a bit farther afield. Alagna is a great spot to base your activities. The ski village is conveniently located near several other resort towns, including Champoluc and Gressoney. The town is also a great starting point for any adventure on the Monterosa massif. Whether you only have a few days or an entire week to explore, Alagna is the perfect starting point.

Magnificent Monte Rosa

For those intrepid enough to attempt a backcountry skiing ascent of Monte Rosa, and enjoy the thrilling ride back down, then Alagna is a great spot to start. Offering plenty of cable cars well up onto the massif, there are plenty of routes to take up to the summit and various ridges. Rides back down are fast, exciting and stunningly scenic.

During the winter, average daily temperatures range from -7 °C to -10 °C on the slopes of the mountains. Factoring in the windchill and temperatures can feel as cold as -15 °C to -20 °C. Snow generally begins to fall in Alagna in January and piles up quickly, sticking well until about April.

Any trip to Alagna best begins with a flight into the Milan Malpensa (MXP) airport. From here, the town is just a two hour drive away. Buses are also available, but take a bit longer than driving.

Italian

+39

Euro

January to April