Conditions Optimales
Description
Piz Palü, Switzerland
Piz Palü, standing at approximately 3900 meters, is a challenging destination primarily suited for experienced mountaineers and paragliders. The ascent begins at the Diavolezza cable car station, a few kilometers north of the Bernina Pass. The elevation gain to the Diavolezza Hut, which is more of a hotel located at the mountain station, is nearly 900 meters. If you're not acclimatized, it's advisable to hike this stretch to get used to the altitude. The Diavolezza Hut is often crowded in good weather, so making a reservation is recommended.
The climb to the summit starts early, around 4 AM, due to the demanding nature of the route. The path is not consistently steep, but crevasses can be time-consuming to navigate, and the reduced oxygen levels at this altitude make the climb more strenuous.
From the Diavolezza, head southeast. The route is not well-marked, so navigation can be challenging. After a short walk, you'll encounter a wooden staircase that helps you descend a rock block, followed by the mountain station of a winter-only chairlift. Be cautious here, as the paths split, and the correct route to Piz Palü is initially unmarked and descends slightly to the right.
After about an hour, you'll reach the Pers Glacier, where roping up is necessary. The glacier is relatively flat initially but soon reveals large crevasses that must be navigated carefully. The path then ascends steadily to the ridge at 3726 meters, where you can start your flight if the wind at the summit is too strong.
The final 200 meters to the summit are steep, with a 35-40 degree incline. Once you reach the east summit at 3882 meters, the physical challenge eases, but the narrow ridge to the main summit requires surefootedness and a head for heights.
The launch site is a few meters west of the summit, ideal if the wind is from the northwest to northeast. If the wind is too strong, you can also launch from the ridge at 3726 meters or the Bellavista notch west of Piz Palü.
Landing options include the end of the Morteratsch Glacier, though the terrain is rocky and not ideal for paragliding. Alternatively, you can land near the Berninahaus, about 500 meters north of the Diavolezza cable car station, or on a meadow south of the station. Be aware of potential strong valley winds in the summer months.
Flight routes from the summit or the ridge at 3726 meters can easily reach the landing site at Berninahaus. If the wind direction changes unexpectedly, you can also start southward from the summit, potentially landing near Biancosee at the Bernina Pass or towards Poschiavo.
Requirements for this tour include high alpine experience in both mountaineering and paragliding, as well as essential equipment like crampons, ice axes, and ropes.
For more detailed information, visit [Piz Palü](http://www.paraalpin.de/piz_palue_3905m.htm).
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