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Hiking trails & Routes
Italy
Piedmont
Vercelli
Fobello

GTA: Rimella to Alpe Baranca Trail

Moderate

4.5

(4)

27

hikers

GTA: Rimella to Alpe Baranca Trail

03:56

9.34km

580m

Hiking

Embark on a moderate hike along the GTA: Rimella to Alpe Baranca Trail, a 5.8-mile (9.3 km) journey that takes about 3 hours and 56 minutes to complete. You will gain 1919 feet (585 metres) in elevation as you explore rich forests and flowering meadows. The route offers diverse views…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Get Directions

1

4.62 km

Alpine Chapel

Highlight • Religious Site

Chiesetta Alpina
'Dedicata a coloro che alla patria donarono la vita senza nulla chiedere'.

Beautiful chapel located on an alpine meadow invites to spiritual rest.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

2

4.86 km

Alpe Baranca Hut

Highlight • Mountain Hut

The Alpe Baranca Refuge is located in the basin of the same name, in an enchanting setting. This is where the Via Alpina and the GTA, the Great Crossing of …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

3

5.93 km

Val Baranca

Highlight • Gorge

4

6.90 km

Cappella San Maria

Highlight • Religious Site

Beautiful picturesque field chapel is located here on your life path. Take a moment and greet her with AVE.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

5

7.15 km

Chapel of San Giuseppe

Highlight • Religious Site

Small chapel of San Giuseppe is hidden in the shadow of the ruin. Take your time to hit the pause button.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

6

7.47 km

La Gazza - Santa Maria

Highlight • Settlement

Small town at the end of the inhabited valley. From here you connect to the Grande Traversata delle Alpi (GTA).

Translated by Google •

Tip by

7

8.24 km

Santa Maria Village, Fobello

Highlight • Settlement

Santa Maria is one of the 23 hamlets of Fobello and is included in the Alta Valsesia Natural Park. It is located in Val Mastallone, a side valley of Valsesia. This charming village is also a GTA stopover.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

8.72 km

Rudito Vardadiena falls

Waterfall

B

9.34 km

End point

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.80 km

3.54 km

Surfaces

5.81 km

3.52 km

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

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Sunday 12 July

26°C

18°C

69 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the trail?

Parking is available in the village of Rimella, which serves as the starting point for this segment of the GTA. Look for designated parking areas within the village.

Is the GTA: Rimella to Alpe Baranca Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep your dog on a leash, especially when passing through hamlets or near any livestock you might encounter along the route.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The ideal time to hike this trail is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, you'll experience pleasant weather, flowering meadows, and accessible conditions. Winter hiking is possible but requires specialized gear and experience due to snow and ice.

Do I need any permits or pay an entrance fee for this hike?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the GTA: Rimella to Alpe Baranca Trail. It's freely accessible to the public.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

The terrain is varied, starting with some asphalt road sections before transitioning to path number 538. You'll encounter ascents and descents, including narrow hairpin bends, stretches of old carriage road, and mule tracks. The path winds through lush forests and open meadows, with some sections being rugged and others more gentle. Sure-footedness is recommended.

What are some notable features or landmarks along the way?

The trail offers diverse scenery and historical points. You'll pass through picturesque hamlets like La Gazza - Santa Maria and encounter historic chapels such as Alpine Chapel, Cappella San Maria, and Chapel of San Giuseppe. The route also features the Mastallone stream, a majestic beech clump, and the impressive double waterfall of the Pissoni. The destination, Alpe Baranca Hut, offers spectacular panoramic mountain views.

Does this trail connect with other long-distance hiking routes?

Yes, this trail is a segment of the well-known Grande Traversata delle Alpi (GTA). It also overlaps with sections of the Sentiero Italia - Tappa E50 and the Via Alpina Blue D13, making it part of a larger network of trails through the Italian Alps.

Is there accommodation or food available at Alpe Baranca?

Yes, at the destination, Alpe Baranca Hut, you'll find a mountain hut (rifugio) that offers warm hospitality, food, and accommodation. It's a great place to rest, refuel, and experience local culture.

Are there any historical or cultural aspects to look out for?

Absolutely. The region is rich in history and Walser culture. You'll pass through historic hamlets, some almost abandoned, offering a glimpse into the past. Near Lake Baranca, you can find the ruins of Villa Aprilia, an eclectic villa with a fascinating history tied to the Lancia family and WWII.

What is the best strategy for hiking this trail to maximize the experience?

Consider starting your hike early in the morning from Rimella to allow ample time to enjoy the diverse scenery and historical points without feeling rushed. The trail's moderate difficulty means you can take your time exploring the hamlets and natural features. Ending at Alpe Baranca Hut provides a rewarding finish with hospitality and stunning views.

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