Pra Bianco pass

An interesting loop trail that can be done as an alternative to the much more frequented Punta Regina hike.
Starting from the top of the Weissmatten chairlift, the route is short but offers excellent views of Monte Rosa.
Some sectors are steep and should be attempted only on dry terrain.
It is also possible to extend the route by doing the Garda Pass – Punta Regina – Col Ranzola hike, then following the trail back to the small lake.

From the Pont-Saint-Martin motorway exit, turn right towards Turin. At the second roundabout, turn left following the signs for Gressoney.
The road climbs for a few hundred meters before turning right into the Lys Valley, passing through the villages of Lillianes, Fontainemore, Issime, and Gaby.
Continue until you reach the large car park on the left, where the Weissmatten chairlift starts and where you can leave your car.

From the top of the chairlift, take the main path ascending toward Col Ranzola until you reach the Alpe Pra Bianco.
Leaving the Col Ranzola path on your right (which will be used for the return), continue along the floor of the flat valley. After a final steep section, you reach Pra Bianco Pass.
After a break to enjoy the view of Monte Rosa, begin the descent on the opposite side.
The path crosses the steep slope, passing just below Garda Pass without reaching it.
Here, you intersect the path coming from Punta Regina and descend quickly to the small lake.
At the end of the lake, on the right, take the trail that returns to Weissmatten. Follow it along some slightly exposed sections, secured with a safety rope, until reaching a small ridge.
Follow the ridge for a short stretch, then traverse to the right to reach Alpe Pra Bianco, from where you return to Weissmatten along the morning route.