Loop routes, Steep Skiing, Day trip
The closest to Gudauri reserves of excellent powder, one of the largest and most beautiful routes near the resort. Steep skiing options.
AD: Somewhat difficult (Assez difficile)
Duration of skinning up ⇡
03:30 h.
S4 : Slopes up to 45°, if exposure is low (between 30 and 40° if it is high or the passage is narrow). Very good skiing abilities are required.
Very remote: Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.
Medium Exposure (E2): As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.
More routes and information about the region
Deda Ena — the peak’s name on the west of the Gudauri resort, clearly visible as a classic isosceles triangle, translated from the Georgian as «Mother Language», named so in honour of the Georgian alphabet. High altitudes, north-eastern exposition, and protection from extreme winds allow enjoying excellent powder even a month after the last snowfall.
Heading to this route is possible only in conditions of good visibility with a favorable forecast. In conditions of poor visibility ("white out weather") on the diverse terrain of this circus, you can easily lose visual landmarks and get into an avalanche area or into a rocky drop.
It is necessary to pass steep and avalanche areas at a distance from each other. Before the first steep ascent to the ridge, located to the left of the central cirque crest, further transforming into a flat plateau, it is necessary to perform snow tests (avalanche pit). You’ll need to do this in order to assess the degree of avalanche danger, to decide on the further continuation of ascent, and to select a descent line.
Check the level of avalanche danger before setting off for the route! Daily updated information on the level of avalanche danger can be found in the Gudauri Travel Bar (www.gudauri.bar).
Skins, Ski Crampons, Standard avalanche equipment (beeper, probe, shovel)
Mobile communication is on the itinerary
Is the route accessible when the Cross Pass is closed?
No
January, February, March, April
Recommended maps for this region
Trekking Map # 4: Khevi, Stephantsminda, Gudauri, Truso. Skale 1 : 50 000.
You can find information regarding the level of avalanche danger in the region, buy maps of the route, join an organized group, or order a professional mountain guide on this route in the Gudauri Travel Bar (www.gudauri.bar).
Rescue service: +995 790 211 100
Fire service, police, medical assistance: 112
Helicopters: +995 32 2243 503, +995 595 350 900, +995 595 404 606
Copying any fragment of this guidebook is acceptable with active link to the source www.gudauri.travel.
Equipment:
Standard equipment for one-day ski-tour, and, if you want to ascend Deda Ena peak -ski crampons, ice-axe, and safety climbing gear.