A shorter but beautiful and scenic ski tour above Vršič, unjustly underrated compared to the much more visited neighboring Mala Mojstrovka.
moderate
Distance 2.9 km
Duration2:30 h
Ascent463 m
Descent463 m
Highest point2,087 m
Lowest point1,611 m
Most visitors traveling across the Vršič Pass do not even notice Nad Šitom glava in the neighborhood of the elongated Mojstrovka and the mighty Prisojnik. The ascent and skiing from the top is a relatively short ski touring adventure. But it still contains all the elements of a classic ski tour: a relatively steep climb that requires caution, and stunning views from the top. Due to the considerable steepness, the descent in good conditions is a real treat.
Author’s recommendation
Nad Šitom glava, accompanied by an experienced ski touring guide, is a suitable introductory tour for good skiers who would also like to try ski touring.
Author
Janko Humar
Update: August 24, 2021
Difficulty
moderate
Technique
Stamina
Experience
Landscape
Highest point
Nad Šitom glava, 2,087 m
Lowest point
Prelaz Vršič, 1,611 m
Best time of year
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Cardinal direction
Track types
Show elevation profile
Safety information
Despite the fact that the ski tour is short, it is relatively steep and recommended only in stable snow conditions. After new snow, the risk of avalanches increases. In hard snow slipping becomes a danger. At the top, the cornices need to be considered. There are often large cornices that form on the leeward side of the ridge.
Tips and hints
Nad Šitom glava is a suitable choice if you do not have time for a full day tour. It is also recommended as an introduction to the ski touring season.
Start
Parking lot at the Vršič Pass (1611 m). If the pass is not plowed, the starting point is wherever the car can be parked. (1,605 m)
Coordinates:
DD
46.432992, 13.743374
DMS
46°25'58.8"N 13°44'36.1"E
UTM
33T 403458 5142924
w3w
///solos.lining.willpower
Destination
Top of Nad Šitom glava (2087 m) – Vršič (1611 m) or where the car was parked.
Turn-by-turn directions
If the road over the pass is not plowed, leave the car wherever you can and continue along the snowy road to the pass. If the road is plowed, leave the car in the parking lot below Tičarjev dom (Tičar Lodge) (1611 m).
Continue straight up below Mojstrovka. At this point it is very likely to come across tracks made by previous tour skiers, as this is a popular tour. When the slope gradient increases, larch trees on the right side can be spotted. From there continue switch backing straight up. Alternatively, you can follow in the direction of Mojstovka below the steep walls above.Before entering the couloir leading to Vratca, turn right.
The ascent through the larch trees or the long traverse from the left leads us to slightly flatter slopes. Towards the right, ascend to the top of Nad Šitom glava (2087 m). On the summit ridge, avoid the cornices.
Despite the fact that Nad Šitom glava is a relatively modest peak compared to its neighbors, it still offers luxurious views: of the Julian Alps ridges on the Primorska side, on the steep walls of Prisojnik and Škrlatica in the neighborhood and further on to Austria, all the way to their highest mountain Grossglockner.
The slopes for the descent are mostly wide and ski-friendly. Choose the descent path that is most appropriate to your skiing ability.
Note
all notes on protected areas
Public transport
There is no public transport.
Getting there
From the Gorenjska side: From Kranjska Gora along the only road to the Vršič Pass.
From the Primorska side: from Bovec head in the direction of Trenta and on to the Vršič Pass.
Parking
Park on the top of the pass. In case the road is not plowed, leave the car wherever it is possible - taking care not to obstruct others or road machinery.
Coordinates
DD
46.432992, 13.743374
DMS
46°25'58.8"N 13°44'36.1"E
UTM
33T 403458 5142924
w3w
///solos.lining.willpower
Arrival by train, car, foot or bike
Book recommendation by the author
Igor Jenčič: Veliki turno smučarski vodnik (Sidarta)
Questions and answers
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