Crevoladossola - Alpe Colmine Trail (A09)

The main ascent to Colmine di Crevola via the A09 route is considered difficult, featuring a substantial elevation gain and rugged terrain. However, there is also an easier loop variant (sometimes referred to as IA09 or A09a + A09) that explores the hamlets around Crevoladossola, which is classified as easy to medium.

The more challenging ascent to Colmine di Crevola can take between 4.5 and 6.5 hours, depending on your pace and stops. The easier loop around Crevoladossola's hamlets typically takes about 2 hours.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll encounter paved roads, stone steps, traditional mule tracks, and forest paths. As you ascend towards Colmine di Crevola, the path becomes more rugged and steeper, especially in the upper sections. The easier hamlet loop primarily uses mule tracks and internal village roads.

The trail offers stunning panoramic views of the Ossola Valley, including the plain of Domodossola, and glimpses of the Antigorio and Divedro Valleys. You'll pass through picturesque alpine pastures like Alpe Gorta and Alpe Genuina. Highlights include the charming Simbo Village with its ancient houses, and the Panoramic Benches Overlooking the Ossola Valley. Near the summit, you can admire surrounding peaks like Monte Leone and Monte Cistella.

Yes, the route is rich in history. You'll find ancient water wells at Colmine di Crevola, some with ingenious wooden rocker arms. The stone villages, such as Simbo Village, feature historical structures like old washhouses. One variation from Scezza even includes numerous sculptures of animals, angels, and goblins by Luciano Colli.

The trail typically starts from Crevoladossola. Parking is generally available in the village. For specific parking locations, it's advisable to check local signage upon arrival or consult resources like visitcrevoladossola.it or visitossola.it for the most current information.

While specific regulations for this trail are not detailed, generally, dogs are permitted on hiking trails in the region. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to carry waste bags. Please check local guidelines before your visit.

The best time to hike the main ascent to Colmine di Crevola is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and snow has melted from higher elevations. For the easier hamlet loop, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and experience due to snow and ice.

Yes, near the summit of Colmine di Crevola, there is an always-open bivouac, the Bivacco Colmine Alpino Protti Andrea, built by the Alpini of Crevoladossola. This can serve as a resting spot or emergency shelter.

No specific permits or entrance fees are generally required to hike the Crevoladossola - Alpe Colmine Trail (A09). However, it's always good practice to check official local tourism websites like visitcrevoladossola.it for any updated regulations before your trip.

Yes, the route shares sections with other official trails. You'll find it intersects with parts of the Variante a Sentiero delle Frazioni, G00b - Crevoladossola - Oira, F00 - Crevoladossola Municipio - Gondo, and the ViaStockalper Val Divedro.