Freeriding on the Gemsstock

If you love carving your own lines through deep powder and taking off for bold jumps, the Gemsstock is the place to be — the 2,961 m north face above Andermatt is considered one of the best freeride mountains in the Alps.

Thanks to its north-facing aspect and glacier setting, powder keeps exceptionally well on the Gemsstock — the season usually lasts from mid-November well into spring. Besides steep glacier descents, you'll find untouched slopes in partly secured terrain off the pistes, along with plenty of natural jumps and drops.

The classics

• Guspis — the big journey: around 1,500 vertical metres through a wide, mostly moderate valley, ending right in Hospental — practically at the hostel's front door.
• Felsental — the enjoyable variant down to Andermatt; in good conditions it's manageable even with a little less experience.
• Giraffe — the demanding line to Andermatt with a steep entrance couloir: for experienced freeriders with local knowledge only.
• Geissberg — the fourth classic on the mountain, likewise for skilled riders.
• Bernhard Russi Run — the black glacier piste named after Uri's Olympic champion: a groomed run with a high-alpine backdrop.

Freestyle

If that's not enough, head for the g-park at the Gurschenalp. It gives freestylers and anyone who loves getting airborne the chance for bold jumps. And if you like, you can wind down the day comfortably at the g-lounge.

Safety

Off-piste rules apply: check the avalanche bulletin, carry full emergency equipment (transceiver, shovel, probe) and, when in doubt, go with a mountain guide. Our reception is happy to help with current conditions and contacts to local guides.