Blanchard - Passo Superiore Bettolina - Rifugio Sella

One of the most demanding trails in the entire Aosta Valley network, this 9.4-kilometre route ascends nearly 1869 metres from Blanchard (1731 m) to the Rifugio Quintino Sella at 3593 metres, in the high glacial environment of the Monte Rosa massif. Classified EE, the route demands excellent physical fitness, appropriate mountaineering equipment, and solid high-altitude navigation skills. The lower section passes through woodland and alpine pastures before the terrain becomes rocky and barren, with residual snowfields and scree. The Quintino Sella hut is a historic base for ascents of Castore and other Monte Rosa summits. Rapid weather changes at this altitude are common and must be taken seriously.