37th Himalaya-Karakoram-Tibet Workshop

First day (Monviso Massif) - The Monviso Massif is one of the best-preserved relics of oceanic crust in the western Alps that formed during opening of the Mesozoic western Alpine Tethys and that underwent HP-UHP metamorphism during Alpine subduction. The first day gives the almost unique chance to see and appreciate different portions of the ancient ocean along a mountain trail. The field trip itinerary is located in a medium-high mountain environment in front of the east face of Monviso (3841 m), which is the symbol of the Cottian Alps. The excursion will start from the spring of the longest Italian river (Po) and will reach three spectacular mountain lakes through a typical glacial landscape.

Second day (Dora Maira Massif) - The second day is devoted to the observations of the polyphase deformation of subducted continental crust. Different rocks, building up the polycyclic unit (experiencing both Alpine and pre-Alpine orogenesis), will be observed along a spectacular trail path, shaped by glacier activity in the Northern portion of the Dora Maira. Starting from the Prali village (Germanasca valley) we will reach outcrops with the aid of a chairlift. From there we will walk on a gentle footpath.