FRANCOLINI 1
Back-country skiing
FRANCOLINI 1
The Francolini 1 trail is an itinerary dedicated to ski mountaineering on mainly open terrain, designed to offer a logical, varied, and safe ascent, with clear and continuous references.<br />From the parking lot located below the old departure station of the disused chairlift, climb up keeping to the left (trail information boards). After a few meters, take the marked trail that enters the valley and runs alongside the stream, following the route signs. <p>Unlike Francolini 2, here you do not cross the stream, but climb up it, staying at the bottom of the valley, passing close to the aqueduct.<br />The trail then leads to a wide plateau that opens up on the right: climb gently up towards Malga Fontanelle, which you leave on your right, continuing towards the Francolini ski slope.<br />Once you reach the slope, continue along the edge of the woods, without entering them, keeping to a clear and easily visible uphill path.</p> <p>Near the new ski lift (cable car), you will reach the valley below, which you will climb with a few changes of direction until you rejoin the upper part of the trail. From here, continue along the edge of the forest until you reach the Stella d'Italia mountain hut/refuge, the end point of the itinerary.<br />The route is marked, with generally moderate gradients, and is suitable for those looking for a regular, well-marked and consistent climb, ideal for both training and a progressive approach to ski mountaineering in the Francolini area.</p>