Originally Posted by
FrootBooter
Hmm, In Europe, all pistes must be secured before they can be opened. This means during avalanche danger, any avalanche prone slope that could run onto a piste must be secured in some way. If avalanche conditions warrant they are controlled.
In addition to pistes, there are 'high mountain itineraires'. Itineraires are not prepared pistes(not groomed), but marked ways through natural mountain terrain which have been secured from known risks if you stay within the stated distance of the markers. It is suggested that skiers retain a guide when skiing itineraires. Itineraires may be open or closed. If closed, it may be for any number of risks, including avalanche danger. To know why one is closed you would have to ask patrol. If an itineraire is open, any slope that can avalanche onto the marked itineraire has been deemed secure, through avalanche control measures if the conditions warrant. An itineraire being closed does not mean it is illegal to go there. It means you, or another responsible party, assume responsibility for all of the risks, as the resort has not deemed it secure
Though I do not know the particular details of itineraire management between Switzerland, Austria, Italy and France they are at least similar. The terrain accessed with the Aiguille du Midi tram is quite unique and in a league of its own. I am sure the management is as unique.
Avalanche control and how it affects the day feels very similar between Europe and the US, what with closed lifts/opening times etc. The real difference is the way boundaries are managed.