Rascias

This is the best-known ski mountaineering ascent in the Champorcher Valley. The first section follows a level road leading to Dondena, but once you reach it, beautiful skiable slopes await, continuing all the way to the broad summit.
If the Champorcher road is open, the excursion is also possible later in the season, when it is possible to drive to Dondena. In this case, only the final section of the ascent on the attractive slopes is required.
If you do not have excellent knowledge of winter mountain conditions, it is strongly recommended to go with a qualified mountain guide.
For up-to-date snow conditions, check the website www.gulliver.it.

From the Pont-Saint-Martin motorway exit, turn left towards Aosta. At the roundabout, keep left, continuing in the direction of Aosta.
Drive past Donnas and reach Bard. After the village, at the roundabout, turn left towards Champorcher. Pass through the village of Hône and enter the Champorcher Valley.
Continue past Pontboset and follow the road as far as Champorcher. At the end of the village, turn right towards Dondena. The road climbs past Grand and Petit Mont Blanc, leading to a large car park, beyond which the road is usually snow-covered.
Alternatively, from the Verrès motorway exit, turn right towards Turin. Continue past Arnad until you reach the roundabout, where you turn right following the signs for Champorcher.

From the car park, follow the country road towards the starting point of the Barbustel Refuge trail (at certain times of year, this section may still be accessible by car). Continue along the gently sloping road until you reach Dondena.
Descend to cross the stream, then climb up the opposite slope. Now ascend the attractive slopes, passing a slightly steeper section on the right, until you reach the wide hollow below Monte Dondena.
Continue for a short stretch, then bear left to reach the broad ridge between Rascias and Monte Dondena. From here, the terrain becomes steeper as you approach the level summit, where the exact high point can be difficult to identify.
If the snow is stable, it is possible to descend directly without passing via the small pass. From Dondena, return along the country road to the car.
Please note: the route described is indicative only — depending on snow conditions, follow the safest and most suitable path.