If you follow Nordic skiing at the World Cup level you may have heard of athletes making a trip in the summer and fall to the Stelvio Glacier in Italy. This is where the sport’s finest test their fitness and train long hours at high elevation on summer snow. But in a pandemic year where long travel is not safe, did you know that the Stowevio Glacier is only a short drive for most MNC members?
Although it involves a hike and not a tram ride to the skiable terrain, the views are no less inspiring. On a sunny day, you will see lots of skiers making the pilgrimage up to the glacier with the promise of early-season snow while the ground is bare at lower elevations…
The high alpine terrain of the Stelvio is known for its lack of oxygen, so athletes must be very careful to not train too hard or too fast before they become acclimated. However, with the Stowevio Glacier topping out at just over 4,000 feet the altitude is not much to worry about. You can still expect pristine white snow and rocky outcroppings much like that of the Domomites.
It’s important to wear sunscreen to be protected from the high alpine rays. Although conditions are often good, old skis are usually recommended since the occasional rock may pop up on the trail. However, snow-capped pine trees and well-packed surfaces are usually suitable for skiers looking to get in early striding and gliding.
On the Stelvio Glacier, the altitude means it’s very hard to do intensity training and push yourself. However, given the low elevation of the Stowevio Glacier, along with ample manmade snow at the main parking area, it’s possible to have World Cup-level race efforts such as the 200m relay sprint course with downhill jump feature and backpack directional markings. It’s true: on October 31st the races of the 20/21 season have already begun.
