Cima Sass Ciampac: the panoramic balcony of Val Badia

Every step is never quite the same, just as every hike evokes new sensations. We retrace the path of a climb we’ve already completed, to discover different facets of the mountain. The splendid Dolomitic panoramas of the Gardena Pass provide the backdrop: on one side lies Val Gardena, dominated by the Sassolungo Group, and on the other, Val Badia, with the Tofane peaks on the horizon blending with the summits of the Fanes Dolomites.

The first ascent along the scree-covered slopes of the Cir Towers leads us through rocky terraces. As we gain altitude, we traverse the heart of a rocky basin scattered with sharp towers and dolomitic debris of various shapes. These rocky spires accompany us closely, creating a dramatic setting that unfolds both ahead and behind us toward the jagged Sella Group. Upon reaching the Cir Saddle, we can admire from above the path just traveled — an intricate and thrilling labyrinth of rocks.

After the climb, the next destination is the Forcella de Crespeina, offering views of the Puez massif and its main peaks, at the end of a rocky, lunar-like plateau. From here, the ascent to the summit of Sass Ciampac continues along a narrow, rocky trail, never overly demanding. The slope steepens, and the path narrows. In some sections, the rocky ridge opens up, revealing windows onto steep, dizzying scree gullies plunging down into the valley. Focus heightens, every step becomes deliberate, until at last the summit plateau of Sass Ciampac comes into view.

A 360-degree panorama surrounds us — from the Puez and Sella Groups stretching all the way to the Tofane, Pelmo, and Civetta. The small rocks around the summit are not difficult to climb, yet they offer moments of suspension, as our feet edge toward the rocky terraces, always eager to look just a little further. Toward something new and yet familiar, with our gaze fixed ahead — on the same trail that always has something more to offer.