The Zell am Ziller to Gerlos ski link - the essence of skiing
I was back in the Zillertal Valley yesterday and for those who like cold air, new snow and superb views then it would have been a day to remember. I am not sure of the temperatures out of the sun but the fresh snow under ski was squeaking, as were my fingers as I adjusted camera gear at 2500m - it was mighty cold. I was back in the Zillertal Arena and skied from Zell am Ziller into Gerlos of the first time in the 2009/10 season. The high altitude ski route that has been forged through the peaks is one of my top ski runs in the world. On paper there is nothing extraordinary about the route - it has several flat sections and the vertical is nothing out of the ordinary. But for me it is the purpose of the route that represents the real essence of skiing - getting between locations in hostile conditions - I love every second of my time on this route. Not for the powder flying over my head, or the steeps that require serious commitment, but for the realisation every time I am on it, that skiing has its roots in adaptation and survival in hostile environments. And if you do need steep powder then there is also plenty of that on either end of this special route.
The latest video snow report from the 3rd January 2010 on this superb ski route:
The Brown family National Lampoons euro ski trip is on . We are planning a 30 March arrival after the France,Switzerland then Austria route. If any bloggers have route tips feel free to post them.
On a slightly more ‘fishy’ note Josh has a namesake in our brand new Argos fish tank ! Grace named him and he is one of a group of 5 fine looking silver minnos.
It will be soooooo good to get the kids on skis…Mutters kinder region beware !
Perfect, Mutters really is great for families and the adults can take a run down the Gotznerabfahrt. The Stubai Glacier would be another great option, the kids facilities at the Gamsgarten mid-station are second to none. And a trip to the Zillertal Arena is an absolute must - spring skiing there is fantastic. I am not sure Josh would understand the concept of a fish named after him although his current favourite book is ‘Barry the Fish with Fingers’, but as soon as he is able to understand I will be sure to let him know.