We drive to Riscone and park near the Steakhouse restaurant (approx. 910 m a.s.l.). We cross the car park, get on our skis and follow the Herrnegg piste uphill. You could also leave your car at a small car park further north to save 80 metres of elevation gain. Heavy snowfall accompanies us during our tour.

Soon the well-marked AVS path branches off to the right. In summer this itinerary is popular with hikers, whereas in winter it is covered by enthusiastic ski mountaineers. The path runs across the forest to the peak of the Plan de Corones and is an interesting alternative to classic winter days on the ski slopes as ski mountaineering is practised off-piste. Some sections of the path are rather steep. We walk under the ropes of the cable car and then uphill to the Plan de Corones where we cross the Sylvester slope with caution. Then the itinerary proceeds through the forest.

Slightly lower than the peak we can hear the ringing of the Concordia Peace Bell on the Plan de Corones. We keep to the right while we ascend to the highest point (2,275 m a.s.l.) where we can choose between several refreshment points. After a hearty lunch under the winter sun we are ready for our descent to Riscone with the other skiers either on the Sylvester or the Herrnegg slope.

Please note: this AVS path is a valid alternative in case of bad weather. Please be cautious while crossing the ski slope. The AVS itinerary can be used only during the day as descending along the ski slopes is forbidden at night. Good physical fitness is required to face the considerable elevation gain of the tour.
Medium inclination: 23.4%

Author: BS

Date of the excursion: 11 December 2010
Reviewed in: 2025