4.6
(192)
1,125
hikers
Cainallo - Rifugio Bietti Trail
03:12
7.91km
360m
Hiking
Embark on the Cainallo - Rifugio Bietti Trail, a moderate hike that takes you through diverse landscapes. You will begin with a peaceful walk through a serene beech forest, enjoying the quiet atmosphere. As you ascend, the scenery transforms, opening up to spectacular panoramas of Lake Como and the surrounding…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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1.59 km
Votive Chapel to the Partisans of the "Cacciatori delle Grigne" Brigade
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.95 km
Prada Gate
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Tip by
3.41 km
View of Rifugio Bietti Buzzi
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
3.94 km
Bietti-Buzzi Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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7.91 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.83 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
7.26 km
481 m
108 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Monday 18 May
19°C
6°C
25 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the trail start, and what are the parking options?
The trail typically starts from Cainallo, near Esino Lario. You can usually find parking available in Cainallo, which serves as the main trailhead for this route.
How long does it typically take to hike to Rifugio Bietti-Buzzi?
The one-way hike to Rifugio Bietti-Buzzi usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The full round trip is about 11 kilometers and takes roughly 4 hours and 24 minutes.
Is this trail suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the Cainallo - Rifugio Bietti Trail is generally considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for various fitness levels, including families with children. The initial section is particularly comfortable.
What is the terrain like on the trail?
The terrain varies; the first 40-45 minutes wind through a serene beech forest on a comfortable mule track. As you progress, the environment becomes more rugged and open, with natural paths, mountain hiking paths, and some gravel sections. Some parts may be exposed.
What kind of views can I expect along the way?
After the initial wooded ascent, you'll emerge to spectacular views of Lake Como and the surrounding crests. From the Bietti-Buzzi Hut, you can enjoy a priceless 360-degree panorama of the Grignone and its peaks, as well as expansive views across the lake to the Alps.
What are the main points of interest along the route?
Notable features include the Votive Chapel to the Partisans of the "Cacciatori delle Grigne" Brigade, the magnificent natural rock arch known as Prada Gate, and the View of Rifugio Bietti Buzzi. The trail also passes through areas of geological interest with fossil outcrops and karstic cavities.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail offers diverse landscapes with extraordinary spring blooms and vibrant autumn colors. While beautiful year-round, be aware that during winter, micro-crampons may be necessary due to potential ice on some sections.
Is the Cainallo - Rifugio Bietti Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is under control, especially in areas where wildlife might be present or near exposed sections.
Are there any permits or fees required to hike in Parco Regionale della Grigna Settentrionale?
No, there are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail within the Parco Regionale della Grigna Settentrionale. However, always respect local regulations and leave no trace.
Are there facilities or refreshments available on the trail?
Yes, the Bietti-Buzzi Hut, located at 1719 meters, is a welcoming destination offering refreshment, good local food, and lodging.
Does this trail connect with other hiking routes?
Yes, the route covers 100% of the official 'Cainallo - Rifugio Bietti' trail. It also passes through significant sections of the 'Sentiero Italia - Tappa D12S' and 'Grigne Skymarathon' routes, among others.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
August 3, 2024 On the Grigne, in the province of Lecco, there is a curious limestone rock formation in the shape of an arch that takes the name of "Porta di Prada", formed through the erosion of karst processes over millions of years. The combined action of water and atmospheric agents has shaped the arch as we see it today, and it is nothing more than a remnant of an ancient cave system. Porta di Prada is located at the top of the valley of the same name, at about 1700 meters above sea level on the Grigna, and for its natural beauty and its panoramic position it is a very popular destination among hikers. We reached it starting from Alpe Cainallo, in the municipality of Esino Lario, and after the numerous ritual photos of the Porta we reached the Rifugio Bietti Buzzi for lunch, at an altitude of 1,719 m.a.s.l.
It was not possible to loop with the Bogani refuge due to too much ice.
Today I started from the Cainallo paid car park. The parking meter near the Albergo Cainallo wasn't working and I was left wondering if I would get a fine for the whole walk. The route is very simple and almost always flat, there is a single point equipped with a chain but wide enough not to cause any worries. Leaving early I had the pleasure of meeting several chamois along the route that passes from Porta di Prada to the Bietti Buzzi Refuge. The temperature was decidedly cold +2° with gusts of wind. Super panoramas, recommended as a relaxing walk.
Ring route from Cainallo parking passing through: - Prada nozzle - Bietti Buzzi Refuge - Poletti Brigade votive chapel
Parked the car at vo di moncodeno cost 6 euros for the whole day. Climb to the Bietti Buzzi refuge path n°24 passing through the spectacular Porta di Prada. The path does not present particular difficulties and in 2 hours you arrive at the refuge.
End of July 2024. The sun shines on the rocky and unprotected sections of this challenging trail. A continuous up and down. Departure from a car park without a ticket machine (it is only a few kilometers below), the route winds through the woods and without great difficulty arrives at the beautiful Porta di Prada, a rock arch set in the Grigna. After many stretches in the sun and on steeply sloping rocky terrain you reach the Buzzi refuge. The return follows exactly the same route as the outward journey (unless the route is significantly lengthened and the level of difficulty is increased). 6.5
Starting from the paid car park in Cainallo (Esine Lario), the path crosses a beautiful larch forest, in this case bare with notable leaves on the ground. It is a continuous up and down, not to be underestimated and intended as flat, even if the difference in height to reach the refuge is of little importance. Once you arrive at the Bocchetta di Prada, continue on the well-marked path 24, once you reach the votive chapel, continue towards the refuge and not along the ridge, shortly after you reach the Porta di Prada, a large rock formation 20 meters high. (perhaps unique here in Lombardy). The refuge cannot be seen yet, there is a scree to overcome, but the CAI and rif Lombardia flags can barely be seen. Easy fauna encounters and today a wonderfully clear day. To be done again, in spring/summer.