Piedicavallo to Colle della Mologna Grande Trail

The Historic E60 mule track is a challenging hike that generally takes around 7 hours and 2 minutes to complete. This estimate is for the full 12.3-kilometer route with its significant elevation gain.

The terrain varies significantly. It starts in shaded areas with dense trees, passing through rustic stone houses in the Montà hamlet. As you ascend, the path becomes steeper, leading into increasingly stony pastures and eventually a rugged, rocky landscape around Alpe Anval and Pianel. Some sections may be quite steep and could feature an iron handrail for protection. Higher elevations, like around Alpe Lavazey, are consistently stony.

Along the way, you'll encounter several notable features. You can visit the Rifugio Madonna della Neve, the Wall of Hiking Greetings in Piedicavallo, and enjoy the View of the Cervo Valley from Rifugio Rivetti. The trail also passes the Mologna Grande Pass and the Rivetti Hut. You'll also see characteristic alpine hamlets like Montà and the imposing rock formation of the Mitria.

Given its alpine nature and high elevations, the best time to hike this trail is typically during the summer and early autumn months (June to September). During this period, the snow has usually melted, and the weather conditions are more stable, offering the best chance for clear views and safer passage through the rocky sections.

While there are no explicit restrictions against dogs, this is a difficult trail requiring a very good level of fitness and sure-footedness. The terrain includes steep, stony sections and rugged landscapes. If you bring your dog, ensure they are well-conditioned for such a challenging alpine environment and always keep them on a leash for their safety and that of wildlife.

The trail begins in Piedicavallo. You should be able to find parking in or near the village to access the trailhead. Specific parking areas are not detailed, but Piedicavallo serves as the primary starting point for this historic route.

No, there are no special permits or entrance fees required to hike the Historic E60 mule track. It is generally accessible to the public.

Yes, this route is part of several other significant trails. It covers 100% of the Via Alpina Blue D17, 94% of the GTA: Rifugio Rivetti - Santuario San Giovanni, and 94% of the Sentiero Italia - Tappa E45. It also intersects with sections of the GTA: Sant'Antonio di Valvogna - Rifugio Rivetti and Sentiero Italia - Tappa E46.

The trek offers diverse and captivating scenery. In the lower sections, you'll enjoy tranquil beech forests. As you gain elevation, the views open up to include the majestic Monte Bianco (Mont Blanc) massif and interesting panoramic views of the underlying lakes in Val Sorba. You'll also see characteristic alpine hamlets and the imposing rock formation of the Mitria.

This trail is classified as 'difficult' and requires a very good level of fitness, excellent sure-footedness, sturdy hiking shoes, and prior alpine experience. The route involves a significant elevation gain over steep and stony sections, demanding sustained effort.

Yes, there are mountain huts along or near the route. You can find the Rifugio Madonna della Neve and the Rivetti Hut. The trail also passes by Alpe Anval Superiore, which may offer some form of shelter or facilities.