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March 9, 2025
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lago della Vecchia Hut
4.5
(97)
563
hikers
10.8km
04:23
890m
890m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Via Alpina Blue Trail: Stage D18, a rewarding journey spanning 6.7 miles (10.8 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2915 feet (888 metres). This stage, typically completed in about 4 hours and 23 minutes, takes you through diverse alpine landscapes. You will ascend past vibrant summer pastures and into the picturesque Jatzet basin, where rhododendrons and larches paint the scenery. Later, the trail descends on an old mule path, expertly carved into the rock, featuring around 400 bends. Along the way, you will discover charming Walser villages like Tresinot and Beccaz, offering a glimpse into local culture.
As a point-to-point route, you will need to arrange transport or accommodation in Issime for your finish. This stage is part of the more demanding Via Alpina Blue Route, so ensure you have good fitness, are sure-footed, and are comfortable with heights. While no special mountaineering equipment is necessary in snow-free conditions, be prepared for varied terrain and sections that may be exposed. Always check local conditions before you set out, especially concerning weather and trail accessibility.
This particular stage offers a unique insight into the historical engineering of alpine trails, exemplified by the meticulously constructed old mule path. It also provides a cultural journey through traditional Walser villages, showcasing a distinct Alpine heritage. The Via Alpina Blue Trail is renowned for its challenging yet incredibly scenic passages through the Italian Alps, making this stage a memorable part of a larger adventure.
4.2
(11)
49
hikers
11.0km
04:31
920m
920m
Embark on the difficult From Piedicavallo to Lago della Vecchia - Ring tour, a challenging 6.8-mile (11.0 km) hike that demands good fitness and orientation skills. You will climb 3023 feet (921 metres) over approximately 4 hours and 31 minutes, traversing varied terrain from dense beech forests to rugged alpine areas. The route transforms as you ascend, revealing flowering clearings, grassy terraces, and stony paths, culminating in expansive views and the pristine glacial waters of Lago della Vecchia.
This demanding loop begins in Piedicavallo, guiding you through a landscape that transitions from lush forests to high alpine vistas. Be prepared for less-beaten paths, high grass, and sometimes faint markings, especially if you venture into the Irogna Valley segment. The full ring tour is rated as difficult, making it suitable for experienced hikers seeking a substantial alpine adventure.
Discover the historical significance of the trail, which incorporates a well-preserved ancient mule track (E50) built by Senator Federico Rosazza between 1876 and 1879. A highlight is Lago della Vecchia, steeped in the local legend of an "Old Woman and the Bear," and near it, the welcoming Rifugio Lago della Vecchia, offering traditional Piedmontese cuisine and overnight stays. You will also pass ancient stone huts and hamlets like Rosei, showcasing traditional alpine architecture.
4.0
(4)
29
hikers
15.7km
08:19
1,450m
1,450m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,850 m
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Wednesday 10 June
16°C
8°C
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