Chironico South

[Note: due to the big size of the Chironico topos, we advise you to download them for offline use while on a good WiFi connection. It's best not to leave the download view or switch to other apps before it's completed.]

Chironico is one of the most popular bouldering areas in Europe. Together with Cresciano and Magic Wood, it's a must-visit destination in Switzerland and there’s a good reason for that. In a rather compact area you can find more than 2000 boulder problems within a rather short walking distance surrounded by a beautiful mountain landscape.

The rock type is excellent quality gneiss with good friction, technical foot holds and overhangs. The typical Chironico route consists from overhangs with crimps, but you'll find all kinds of styles in the area.

There’s routes for all levels and the most common grades fall between 6A-7B. This makes it a great destination for both beginners and more advanced climbers. The terrain is pretty flat and thanks to the paths it’s rather easy to move around in the area. This also makes many landings pleasant. Chironico is very suitable for families with kids as the approaches are short (1-25min) and often the ground is safe for the little ones to roam around.

Most popular seasons in Chironico are spring and autumn, when the temperatures are often pleasant both for hanging out and low enough to have a good friction. If you're looking for the very best friction, then winter is your choice but then the weather is also more unpredictable with a higher chance for snow and rain. Summer can work if you don't mind the heat and not-so-amazing friction.

The geology of the boulders in Chironico dates back 11.000 years. A massive landslide coming from across the valley spitted the boulders. The first developers started to brush as early as the early 80's. Richi Signer was one of the most important ones in these early days. The main areas were a fact. In 1995 the area saw new light when Richi brought Andy Lusier to Chironico.

Not much later Michi Tresch, Ivan Tresch and Fred Nicole brushed and opened many lines. In the later 1990's and early 2000's Ueli Gygax and Dave Graham were some of the more active hardcore openers. Overall during the years dozens of climbers have contributed to the development of this beautiful place.