Hiking – Dino Icardi Trail
A splendid high-mountain loop starting at the base of the Stroppia Waterfalls.
Due to its length and significant elevation gain, the route is reserved for well-trained hikers; touching some of the most beautiful and wild places in the Upper Maira Valley, it offers immense satisfaction. It is best tackled at the beginning of summer, when the Stroppia Waterfalls – the highest natural waterfall drop in Italy – are in full flow.
The trail is dedicated to the mountaineer Dino Icardi from Dronero, who passed away in 1988.
The itinerary can be split into two days by staying overnight at Bivacco Barenghi – 2,815 m – always open, located on the eastern shore of Lago del Vallonasso. The bivouac is named after Milanese mountaineer Giuseppe Barenghi, the first to climb Mount Api in the Himalayas; it can also serve as a base for ascents to several peaks in the area, including: Tête de la Fremo – grade E, Buc de Nubiera – grade PD (max III), Brec de Chambeyron – grade PD (max IV), Aiguille de Chambeyron – grade PD (max II+ / III), Tête de l’Homme – grade F (max II).
THE ITINERARY
Elevation gain: 1,260 m
Maximum altitude: Colle Gippiera, 2,950 m
The first section of the trail climbs the debris cone at the base of the waterfalls, overcomes an initial rocky step, and opens into the basin of Lac Ars – 2,050 m. The path then ascends the rocky wall via sections carved into the stone by the Alpini of the Valcamonica Battalion in 1939/40 – as recalled by an inscription on a stone in one of the support walls – reaching first Bivacco Stroppia – 2,260 m, resting on a panoramic ledge, and then Passo dell’Asino – 2,309 m, which leads into the grand Vallonasso di Stroppia.
Beyond Lago Niera, whose waters feed the waterfalls, the trail gains altitude in the hanging valley, beneath the cliffs of Buc de Nubiera and Brec de Chambeyron. Continuing along the main direction, you reach Lago del Vallonasso, near which stands Bivacco Barenghi – 2,815 m. From the bivouac, it is highly recommended to climb to Colle di Gippiera, on the Italian-French border, offering breathtaking views of the Lago dei Nove Colori and the dramatic ridges of the Aiguille de Chambeyron.
From Bivacco Barenghi, the trail continues south toward the Finestra di Stroppia, reaching Lago della Finestra – 2,794 m and Colle dell’Infernetto – 2,783 m. The descent through the steep scree gully – often snow-covered until late in the season – requires caution, but is aided by the presence of a fixed rope. The valley then opens into wide pastures and joins the Vallone del Maurin, where a comfortable dirt road leads back to the starting point.
Mountain sports are potentially dangerous activities and should only be undertaken with the proper equipment and preparation. We recommend checking the weather and avalanche forecasts before setting off on a hike and/or contacting a guide for accompaniment. Campo Base S.r.l. disclaims any responsibility for the advice and itineraries provided here, which should be personally assessed based on weather and snow conditions.