Highlight • Waterfall
Grand Loson Waterfall
Hiking
4.9
(171)
Running
5.0
(4)
Alpine skiing
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso
Tips
September 20, 2022
Hiking
•
October 8, 2020
Hiking
•
September 3, 2022
Hiking
•
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Grand Loson Waterfall
4.8
(206)
1,188
hikers
15.4km
06:48
990m
990m
Embark on the Aosta Valley High Route 2 - Stage 9, a challenging hike that takes you deep into the Gran Paradiso National Park. This difficult route covers 9.6 miles (15.4 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 3257 feet (993 metres), requiring about 6 hours and 47 minutes to complete. As you traverse diverse terrain, from marked alpine paths to grassy areas and rocky sections, you'll be treated to picturesque views of larch forests and glacial cirques, offering a true immersion in nature.
To prepare for this demanding stage, ensure you have good physical fitness and sure-footedness, as the varied terrain includes descents from the refuge to the valley. While the paths are mostly accessible, the overall difficulty means you should plan your start time carefully to allow ample daylight. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially concerning weather and trail accessibility in alpine environments.
This stage is particularly notable for its rich wildlife; keep an eye out for chamois and ibex, especially around the areas highlighted for their presence within Gran Paradiso National Park. The route provides a unique opportunity to experience the raw beauty of the Aosta Valley's high alpine landscape, making it a memorable part of the Alta Via 2.
4.9
(174)
1,083
hikers
11.1km
05:37
910m
910m
Embark on a difficult hike to Rifugio Vittorio Sella from Cogne, a journey of 6.9 miles (11.1 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2994 feet (913 metres), typically taking 5 hours and 37 minutes. Starting from Valnontey, you will first wind through a beautiful pine forest, following old royal hunting trails on a mule track with wide hairpins. As you climb, the path transitions to high-altitude meadows, offering views of rocky sections, streams, and impressive waterfalls like the Grand Loson Waterfall. The route provides spectacular vistas of snowy peaks, particularly the Valnontey glaciers, and the surrounding majestic mountains. You might also spot abandoned stone houses and an alpine lake as you ascend towards the Alpe Lauson basin where the hut sits.
This difficult hike demands good fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy hiking shoes due to its continuous and constant slope. Alpine experience is also recommended for this excursionist trail. The journey begins from Valnontey, often near the Paradisia Alpine Garden, which serves as the primary access point. While not overly technical, the significant elevation gain requires preparation.
The trail is particularly famous for the abundant wildlife within Gran Paradiso National Park; you might frequently spot ibex, chamois, marmots, and even golden eagles. The Rifugio Vittorio Sella itself has historical significance, originally built in the 1860s as a royal hunting lodge for King Vittorio Emanuele II before becoming a public alpine hut. This route is one of the most frequented excursions in the Cogne valley, serving as a vital base for exploring the park and a key stop on multi-day treks like the Alta Via della Valle d'Aosta n. 2.
5.0
(10)
72
hikers
25.7km
12:57
2,140m
2,140m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,960 m
Weather
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Sunday 21 June
26°C
13°C
46 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
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