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Cassin Route (Southwest Face)

5A | TD | V Edit route
The Cassin Route on the Southwest Face is the famous historic line on Pizzo Badile and a major alpine classic. It is a very serious and sustained climb, combining steep rock climbing with exposed, committing mountain terrain. The route is known for its length, difficulty, and the need for solid route-finding and efficient movement. It is far more demanding than the normal route and is generally attempted by experienced alpinists only. The face can be affected by rockfall and rapidly changing weather. This route is extensively documented and remains one of the most celebrated climbs in the Alps.

Route Outline

Approach from the Val Masino / Gianetti Hut side
Climb the Southwest Face on the Cassin line
Pass the major rock and mixed sections of the wall
Gain the summit ridge near the top of the face
Summit of Pizzo Badile -> descend by the chosen descent route

More routes on Pizzo Badile

Normal Route (North Ridge)

4A | D | IV
The North Ridge is the classic normal route on Pizzo Badile and is one of the mountain's best-known ascents. It is a serious alpine climb on steep, exposed rock with mixed sections depending on conditions. The route is long and committing, with route-finding and weather playing a major role in safety. Rock quality is generally good for the range, but loose sections and objective hazards can still be present. It is typically climbed from a high bivouac or hut approach rather than as a single-day outing. The route is well documented in major alpine guidebooks and is the standard way to the summit for competent alpinists.
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South Ridge

4A | D | IV
The South Ridge is a documented alpine route on Pizzo Badile and is climbed as a serious ridge ascent. It involves sustained exposed climbing on steep rock, with mixed conditions possible depending on season. The route is less famous than the Cassin Route but remains a real and established line on the mountain. It requires good route-finding and comfort on exposed alpine terrain. Conditions and descent logistics are important because the mountain is remote and the terrain is committing. It is a genuine mountaineering route rather than a hiking path.
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