Tuesday 27 February 2007: my first real ski-touring trip, with Patrick, heading for Monte Morrone in the Velino group.
We go down through the wood towards the Prati del Cerasolo with the low sun among the beeches, then climb back up the Valle dell'Asino, at times with skis on our shoulders because the south-facing slopes have almost no snow. From Vado dell'Asina, a remote spot few hikers reach, the winter view of Puzzillo, Velino, Sevice and Murolungo is one of the finest I know. Monte Morrone stays there, waiting.
The way back is gruelling: a bad fall, a twisted knee, the path lost in the wood and hours on crusty snow, until we reach Campo Felice after sunset.
Only repeat this trip if you know the Prati del Cerasolo well: they are vast and in the wood it is easy to lose the track. Before setting off, check the snow and avalanche bulletin.
Length: 3 min 30 sec
The full story: Ski touring from Vado dell'Asina across the Prati del Cerasolo. More short films in the Video Stories section.