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Piz Medel West

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Piz Medel West (Piz Medel Western Peak) is a significant secondary summit within the Piz Medel massif in the Adula Alps, standing at approximately 3,150 meters. Located in the canton of Graubünden, it is closely connected to the main summit by a firn-covered ridge. The surrounding landscape is defined by the Medel Glacier, which stretches across the northern and western flanks. The mountain is part of the crystalline Gotthard Massif and consists predominantly of gneiss. Mountaineers often combine the ascent of this peak with the main summit as part of a glaciated tour. From this vantage point, there are excellent views over the Greina Plateau and the Ticinese Alps to the south. Historically, the accessibility of the peak is linked to the Medelser Hut, which has served as an alpine base for over a century. The high-alpine climate requires full glacier equipment for a safe passage, even during the summer months.

Location: Switzerland
Top sights: Scopi · Cima della Bianca · Piz Miez
Nearby: Disentis (11 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-8	-8	-4	1	6	11	12	12	8	4	-2	-7
Rain mm	74	66	87	111	162	163	156	181	120	122	133	89

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The west summit is often climbed as part of a traverse or from the Medelser Hut. Access to the mountain massif is usually via Curaglia in the canton of Graubünden through the Val Medel.

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Best season

For the demanding west summit, the best conditions are present between July and September. Alpine experience is important when choosing the timing due to potential residual snow fields.

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Terrain & paths

The terrain is very demanding and requires confidence on rock and ice in a high-alpine environment. Steep flanks and partially unstable ground characterize the path to the west summit.

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What to bring

In addition to standard high-altitude gear, securing equipment for climbing passages is often necessary. A helmet for protection against potential rockfall is strongly recommended in this terrain.

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Parking

Parking spaces are available in Curaglia, although capacity for long-term parking may be limited. It is recommended to use official hiking car parks and to check the local signage carefully.

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Safety

This is not terrain for beginners; alpine experience in difficult terrain is an absolute prerequisite. The assessment of avalanche danger in winter and spring must be done professionally.

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Time needed

Including the approach and summit climb, one should expect a total duration of at least 8 to 10 hours. Often, the tour is planned as part of a multi-day undertaking in the Adula Alps.

Geography

Coordinates

46.60000, 8.86000

Facts

Piz Medel West reaches an altitude of approximately 3,150 meters.
It is a key feature of the Medel glacial plateau.
The summit is composed of metamorphic rock from the Gotthard Massif.
It marks the western portion of the massif overlooking Val Medel.
The ascent is typically part of ski mountaineering or high-alpine tours.
The Medelser Hut at 2,524m serves as the standard starting point.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Piz Medel<1 km · EExplore →

Piz della Drausa Nord8 km · SWExplore →

Piz della Drausa9 km · SWExplore →

Piz Olivone10 km · SEExplore →

Disentis11 km · NExplore →

Piz Terri South14 km · EExplore →

Piz Terri North15 km · NEExplore →

Piz della Tavola16 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Piz Medel West (3)

Scopi📍 landmark

Scopi is a peak in the Lepontine Alps on the border between Grisons and Ticino.

Cima della Bianca 📍 landmark

A white peak on the western ridge of Piz Medel.

Piz Miez 📍 landmark

A central peak among the Piz Medel group.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Piz Medel West located?

It is located on the border between the cantons of Graubünden and Ticino at 3210 m.

Are there glaciers there?

Yes, the Medel Glacier covers the northern flank of the mountain massif.

Which hut serves as a base?

The Camona da Medel (2524 m) is the convenient starting point for the climb.

Is glacier equipment necessary?

Yes, rope, crampons, and an ice axe are required to cross the Medel Glacier.

Can the mountain be climbed in winter?

Yes, it is a popular destination for ski tourers under stable avalanche conditions.

Piz Medel West: where is it located?

Piz Medel West is located in Switzerland.

Piz Medel West: what is there to see?

Highlights include Scopi, Cima della Bianca, Piz Miez.

Piz Medel West: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Piz Medel West: why is it worth visiting?

Piz Medel West (Piz Medel Western Peak) is a significant secondary summit within the Piz Medel massif in the Adula Alps, standing at approximately 3,150 meters.

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