4.7
(31)
171
hikers
High Lakes Trail - Stage 1
05:40
15.3km
600m
Hiking
Hike the difficult 9.5-mile High Lakes Trail - Stage 1 in Orobie Bergamasche, gaining 1970 feet with views of Toro Pass.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Get Directions
110 m
To Rifugio Buzzoni from Piani di Bobbio
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
196 m
Barzio-Piani di Bobbio cable car upper station
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
935 m
Rifugio Lecco
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.43 km
Sanctuary of the Queen of the Mountains
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
2.99 km
View of Val Brembana
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.20 km
Passo del Gandazzo
Mountain Pass
6.79 km
Bocchetta di Foppabona
Mountain Pass
7.40 km
Alpe Foppabona
Highlight • Natural
Translated by Google •
Tip by
8.15 km
Grassi Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
10.3 km
View of the Orobie Bergamasche Mountains
Highlight • Viewpoint
11.0 km
Toro Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
15.3 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.35 km
3.52 km
3.41 km
Surfaces
9.27 km
2.91 km
2.15 km
611 m
325 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (2,010 m)
Lowest point (1,630 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 13 May
13°C
4°C
97 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 5.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the High Lakes Trail - Stage 1 begin, and what are the parking options?
This stage of the High Lakes Trail starts from Piani di Bobbio. You can reach Piani di Bobbio via the Barzio-Piani di Bobbio cable car upper station, which typically has parking available at its base station in Barzio.
What is the terrain like on this stage of the High Lakes Trail?
The terrain is varied and challenging, characteristic of a difficult mountain hike. You'll encounter mountain paths with significant elevation changes, including an ascent of over 600 meters and a similar descent. Expect rocky sections, especially around the Toro Pass, and potentially exposed areas.
What are the main points of interest and views along the route?
Along this stage, you'll pass several notable points. These include the Rifugio Buzzoni, Rifugio Lecco, and the Grassi Hut, which offer opportunities for rest. Scenic highlights include the Sanctuary of the Queen of the Mountains, stunning View of Val Brembana, Alpe Foppabona, and expansive View of the Orobie Bergamasche Mountains.
Is this trail suitable for dogs?
While dogs are generally allowed on trails in the Orobie Bergamasche region, it's important to keep them on a leash, especially due to the presence of wildlife and grazing animals. Given the trail's 'difficult' rating and significant elevation changes, ensure your dog is fit enough for a long and strenuous hike.
What is the best time of year to hike this stage of the High Lakes Trail?
The best time to hike this trail is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September). During these months, the weather is generally more stable, and snow has usually melted from higher elevations. Always check local weather conditions before you go, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for hiking in the Orobie Bergamasche region?
Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for hiking on public trails within the Orobie Bergamasche region. However, it's always good practice to check with local tourist information centers or park authorities for any specific regulations or temporary restrictions, especially if you plan to stay overnight in huts.
Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, this route is part of a larger network of trails. It covers 100% of the 'Sentiero dei Laghi Alto - Tappa 1' and significant portions of the 'Dorsale Orobica Lecchese (percorso alto)' (99%), 'Dorsale Orobica Lecchese (percorso basso)' (99%), and 'Alta Via della Valsassina - Tappa 3' (95%). You'll also find it intersecting with parts of '101 - Tappa 3' and 'Sentiero delle Orobie Occidentali - Tappa 2'.
What should I bring for a difficult hike like this?
For a difficult hike of this duration and elevation, essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots, appropriate layered clothing, rain gear, a map and compass or GPS device, sufficient water (at least 2-3 liters), high-energy snacks, a first-aid kit, sun protection, and a headlamp. Trekking poles can also be very helpful on steep or uneven terrain.
Are there opportunities for food and accommodation along the way?
Yes, the trail passes by several mountain huts (rifugi) such as Rifugio Buzzoni, Rifugio Lecco, and the Grassi Hut. These typically offer food, drinks, and overnight accommodation, but it's advisable to check their opening times and make reservations, especially during peak season.
Is the High Lakes Trail - Stage 1 a loop or an out-and-back trail?
This specific stage is a point-to-point hike, starting from Piani di Bobbio and concluding at the Grassi Hut. It is not a loop, so you will need to arrange transportation or plan for the return journey from the endpoint.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trail?
The Orobie Bergamasche mountains are home to diverse wildlife. While sightings are never guaranteed, you might spot chamois, ibex, marmots, and various bird species, including birds of prey. Being observant and quiet increases your chances of seeing animals in their natural habitat.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Nice excursion. Passo del Toro can also be practiced with dogs (if you follow it, it is better to keep them on a leash due to the likelihood of encountering wild animals). In some places a lot of gravel. For those who descend to Barzio with the cable car, pay attention to the time of the last ride (5.30 pm) and to the unknown cable car blockage due to strong winds!
We had little time and, before returning to the plans of Bobbio, we decided to make a jump to the lake of Sasso dal Grassi, using the direct: don't do it, it's not worth it. The start of the trail is five minutes after the marked refuge (1h to the lakes). After covering a hundred meters, turn right along an unmarked and almost invisible track and descend facing a couple of aided (simple) sections along a very narrow path covered with vegetation, with some collapsed sections. Overall it looks like an old path completely abandoned to itself. Less than a kilometer from the lake, the path becomes very narrow, covered with vegetation, narrow to the point of not being able to rest more than one foot at a time and, gradually, it becomes more and more exposed, with an equipped part. To all these amenities we must add the fact that in over two hours we have not met anyone and some sections of the path have collapsed. In my opinion, to be avoided.
Spectacular course, but only for trained people