We returned to the Silvretta region this year, at the end of a rather dry spell. Luckily, or unluckily depending on your perspective, we brought some stormy weather with us!

Day one: we ride through the bustling metropolis of the Ischgl ski area, to the windy cold top of the Piz Val Gronda lift. Joining us, though hardly recognizable in their ski garb, are (right to left) Andrew Schmidt, Maggie Pierce, Børre Johnsen, and Amy Caddell (Kathy in foreground).

After a rather exciting descent in complete white-out conditions, we avoid creek bottoms and wind features and arrive safely at the Heidelberger hut.

After lunch, an afternoon hike up to the Piz Mottana.

Andrew and Mark do some mapwork before dinner.

Day two dawns sunny and cool. Leaving the Heidelberger behind, we head out.

heading up the valley toward our highpoint, the Kronenjoch.

Despite the wind of previous days, we did find some nice snow on our descent toward the Jamtal hut!

After a picnic lunch in the sun, we followed a skin track up to a powder stash...

Which was not bad at all.

Andrew signing his name.

And arrive at the Jamtal hut in time for an hour or so of sun on the terrace.

The following day we headed up toward the Hintere Jamspitze.

Somewhat cloudy skies made for flat light, but the snow conditions were good.

The summit shot!

Steeply at first, we descend the peak.

Our descent ends in fog, sadly! But not before some good turns were had.

Day four, we have a gorgeous day for our traverse to the Wiesbadener hut.

Nice snow as we approach the Ochsenscharte and the Dreiländerspitze.

It gets alpine on the Dreiländerspitze!

Another summit!

But wait! There's more! We still have to get down...

Oh, and what awaits us once we do! The best snow of the trip so far, and good visibility too.

We like-y.

Seeking out sheltered patches where the wind has not worked too hard.

It is working up high!

And our last cozy friendly hut, the Wiesbadener.

Sunset from the Wiesbadener.

The hut beckons.

In case you're wondering, no, there is no wifi. But there is schnaps! Get your priorities in order, people!!!

The following morning, day 5, dawns cold, windy, and foggy. We start out undaunted for an attempt on Piz Buin.

Persisten clouds along the ridgeline, and a buffetting headwind on the glacier, have us bundling up and hunkering down.

We did not climb the peak. It was enough of an environmental challenge to ski safely down again over wind slabby slopes.

On our last day, we said goodbye to the Wiesbadener hut and headed up the hill en route to civilization.

Another high point in another wind-swept and bitter cold situation. But still smiling, mostly!

Feeling our way down once again in wind and flat light.

There is no way to sugar coat the description of this snow, some of the most challenging we've skied, and in very difficult visibility as well. Luckily all were strong and skilled skiers.

The nordic track that takes us back to the Paznauntal.

Jouney's end in Wirl, we all are ready for a hot bath and a good meal! Thanks to the group for their great skiing and coping skills! It was a fun week because of you all.