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Trekking in Valmalenco

Trekking in Valmalenco

Tips and Routes for High-Altitude Walks

Green, peaceful, authentic. If you are looking for a summer getaway and want to immerse yourself in nature in the Lombard Alps, Valmalenco is the perfect destination. Here, you can discover the energy of the mountains, unwind in the alpine breeze, and marvel at the colors of spring in bloom. Stand in awe as unexpected panoramic views open up before you at the summit. Here are just some of the routes you can explore in our valley, but to truly discover them all, there’s only one thing to do: come and visit us!

EE: Expert Hiker – E: Hiking Trail – T: Easy Trail

Lake Palù

Lake Palù is an unmissable stop for anyone spending their summer holidays in Valmalenco. It can be reached on foot from San Giuseppe, from the ski lift parking area, or from Barchi.

The route starting from San Giuseppe is the longest – taking around an hour and a half – while Lake Palù can be reached from Barchi with a 30–45 minute walk that is also suitable for children.

Once you arrive, you can choose to continue for about 10 minutes to reach Rifugio Lago Palù, where you can stop for lunch or dinner and enjoy traditional Valtellina dishes. Alternatively, you can keep going and turn your walk into a true high-altitude hike leading to Sasso Nero (2,917 m – EE), where you can admire the peak of Mount Bernina, or head towards Rifugio Motta at 2,236 meters.

Starting Point: Barchi parking area
Destination: Lake Palù
Walking Time: approx. 40–60 minutes
Distnace: approx. 2 km
Elevation Gain: approx 250 m
Difficulty: Turistic T
Best Time to Visit: spring, summer and autumn
Route Type: scenic alpine walk

Lake Entova

The trail leading to Lake Entova starts from Prati Pedrana in Valmalenco. It is a scenic route suitable for everyone, making it perfect for families and children who want to explore the mountains with an easy and rewarding walk.

The hike winds through forests and peaceful alpine landscapes, offering the perfect opportunity to experience the valley’s authentic environment at a slow and relaxing pace.

The route takes on average of around 1 hour and 45 minutes, with an elevation gain of 400 metres and a total distance of 3.5 km.

Starting Point: Prati Pedrana
Destination: Lake Entova (1870 m)
Walking Time: approx. 1 hour and 45 minutes
Distance: approx. 3,5 km
Elevetion Gain: approx. 400 m
Difficulty: Hiking Trail – E
Best Time to Visit: late spring – autumn
Route Type: hiking trail

Foliage at Lake Lagazzuolo

Lake Lagazzuolo lies in an area surrounded by larch forests that turn warm shades of gold and amber in autumn, creating enchanting reflections on the water’s surface.

It can be reached either from San Giuseppe or from Barchi. While the route is not particularly long, it features a few steep sections that make it a bit more challenging. Your efforts, however, will be richly rewarded by the beauty of the trail, which winds through peaceful forests and alpine meadows, revealing the most authentic and unspoilt side of Valmalenco.

It is the ideal hike for those who love peace and quiet, and wish to enjoy the autumn colours away from the more crowded trails.

Punto di partenza: San Giuseppe
Punto di arrivo: Lake Lagazzuolo (1993 m)
Tempo di percorrenza: approx. 1,5-2 hours
Distance: approx. 3 km
Elevation Gain: approx. 600 m
Difficulty: Hiking Trail – E
Best Time to Visit: late spring – autumn
Route Type: mountain trail

Rusca Trail

The Rusca Trail, an ancient route connecting Sondrio and Chiesa in Valmalenco, is an itinerary rich in history and natural beauty. In autumn, it becomes especially enchanting as the path winds through mixed woodlands where larches, maples, and other trees take on vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and red.

The trail is moderately challenging and requires a basic level of fitness. Along the way, however, there are plenty of scenic viewpoints and resting areas where you can admire the valley and surrounding mountains. It is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a longer hike that beautifully combines nature, history, and panoramic views

Starting Point: Sondrio
Destination: Chiesa in Valmalenco
Walking Time: approx. 3-4 hours (full route)
Distance: approx. 13 km
Elevation Gain: approx. 750 m
Difficulty: Hiking Trail – E
Best time to visit: spring – autumn
Type of Route: scenic historic trail

Lanzada and the Surrounding Area

Lanzada, although farther from the main alpine lakes, is still an excellent starting point for exploring Valmalenco in autumn. In the forests surrounding the village, larches and beeches turn brilliant shades of gold, creating the perfect setting for scenic walks immersed in nature and silence.

Lake Mufulè

One of the most enjoyable hikes starts from the Alpe Largone area and leads to Lake Mufulè. After leaving the paved road behind, the route follows a short stretch of unpaved road before continuing along the marked trail.

The route forms a loop trail of around 5 km, which can be completed in just over two hours, and is suitable for most hikers. In autumn, the lake reflects the colors of the surrounding forests, enhancing the spectacular autumn foliage and creating especially enchanting views.

Starting Point: Alpe Largone
Destination: Lake Mufulè
Walking Time: approx. 2 hours (loop trail)
Distance: approx. 5 km
Elevation Gain: approx. 350 m
Difficulty: Hiking Trail – E
Best time to Visit: spring – autunmn
Route Type: scenic loop trail

Alta Via of Valmalenco

For expert hikers, the Alta Via della Valmalenco is a high-altitude trekking itinerary stretching around 110 km and divided into 8 stages, connecting the main mountain huts of the valley. The route passes through spectacular locations such as Chiareggio, Lake Palù, the Scerscen valley, and the Campo Moro and Campo Gera dams, offering panoramic views over the Disgrazia, Bernina, and Scalino glaciers. It requires good physical preparation and proper mountain equipment, and is mainly accessible during the summer months.

Total Duration: approx. 8 Stages
Distance: 110km
Elevation Gain: variable, with sections reaching up to 3,000 m in altitude
Difficulty: Expert Hiking Trail – EE
Best Time to Visit: summer months
Route Type: high-altitude trekking route between mountain huts

Enjoy the Mountains Safely!

Before heading out into the mountains, always check the weather conditions, choose appropriate equipment, and plan your route based on your experience level. If in doubt, rely on local alpine guides or ask for information regarding trail and snow conditions.
Infopoint Valmalenco +39 0342 451150.