UKC

I'm currently trying to plan an ice climbing trip for next Feb and Cogne is looking like the favourite destination but can't find a huge amount of info on walk ins and any need for skis / snow shoes, could the collective wisdom of UKC shine any light on this for me?

In reply to davegardner:
I've been six or seven times and never "needed" either skis or snow shoes. Having said that I have often wished I has skis for the boring trek back down the valley but more for speed than necessity.

Al

In reply to davegardner:

If there's enough snow for snow shoes/skis the avi risk is likely too high to climb anyway.

Approach skis or x-country skis can make the 8km plod next to the manicured xc trail a bit less boring. I've skid in once on touring setup, but in hindsight it didn't feel worth it. Had quite a fun few turns and drops back down from the base of one of the routes to the valley in fresh powder once though

In reply to davegardner:

Like me old chum "Grid" (see above) I've been there a lot and never used skis. If you did decide to try it you can hire them cheaply in the village. I keep meaning to but, even with 40 years plus of downhill ski-ing I'm crap at langlauf - just can't seem to get the rhythm. Will be there in Feb - might see you - I'll be the silly old fool falling off his skis!

In reply to davegardner:
As others have said. Also bear in mind that skis = boots on your back, unless you plan to climb in ski touring boots. If there is a path, the walk ins are between half an hour and two hours for most stuff.

In reply to davegardner:
I agree with all the above posts, but highly recommend trekking / walking poles for the walk in/out especially with fresh snow. Skis are a good idea, but only for a rest day from climbing, or if it gets too warm for safe climbing. There is a mini downhill resort in the valley and proper skiing is not far to drive

Sounds good then, thanks everyone. Fingers crossed for good conditions now!