4.8
(40)
201
hikers
Verzasca Trail
06:35
21.2km
750m
Hiking
This difficult 13.1-mile hike around Lake Vogorno takes you from Verzasca Dam to Lavertezzo, featuring emerald waters and charming villages.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
7.77 km
Corippo – village with 15 inhabitants
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
11.0 km
Ponte dei Salti
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
11.2 km
Lavertezzo Village
Highlight • Settlement
There is also a Postbus connection from Locarno through the Verzasca Valley.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
19.9 km
Verzasca Dam
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
21.2 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
10.6 km
4.01 km
3.49 km
2.10 km
992 m
Surfaces
12.7 km
6.86 km
692 m
638 m
111 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (890 m)
Lowest point (410 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 7 May
20°C
10°C
45 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Tour of Lake Vogorno between Verzasca Dam and Lavertezzo?
This is classified as a difficult hike. It covers 21.2 kilometers with approximately 750 meters of ascent and 770 meters of descent. It requires very good fitness, sure-footedness, sturdy shoes, and some alpine experience due to varied terrain and significant elevation changes.
How long does it typically take to complete this hike?
The hike usually takes around 6 hours and 35 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
What are the main highlights along the way?
You'll encounter several notable points of interest. These include the impressive Verzasca Dam, the picturesque village of Lavertezzo Village with its iconic Ponte dei Salti, and the charming village of Corippo – village with 15 inhabitants. The emerald green waters of the Verzasca River and unique rock formations are a constant scenic highlight.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trail?
The trail offers varied terrain, including forested sections, open fields, and passages through traditional stone villages. Paths can be narrow, lumpy, dirt, and stone, with numerous ups and downs throughout the route.
Where can I park for this hike?
Parking is available near the Verzasca Dam and in Lavertezzo Village. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly.
How can I get to the trailhead using public transport?
The Verzasca Valley is well-served by public bus routes. You can use bus stops in various villages along the valley, including near the Verzasca Dam and Lavertezzo Village, to access or customize your hike.
Is this trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, given the varied and sometimes challenging terrain, ensure your dog is fit for a long hike. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially when passing through villages or near livestock, and be mindful of other hikers.
What is the best time of year to hike this route?
The best time to hike is typically from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable, and the natural beauty of the valley, including the emerald green waters, is at its peak. Always check local weather conditions before you go.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this hike?
No, you do not need a specific permit or to pay an entrance fee to hike this trail in the Verzasca Valley.
Does this route connect with other hiking trails?
Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notable sections include parts of the 02-Sentiero Verzasca, Oviga di Fuori - Corippo, and Vogorno Selvatica, among others, offering opportunities to explore further.
Are there options to shorten the hike or make it easier?
Yes, due to the proximity of public bus routes along the valley, you can easily customize your journey. You can choose to start or end your hike at various villages, effectively shortening the route or focusing on specific, more easily accessible sections.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
On Saturday everything was so gray in Zurich and hardly any prospect of better weather on Sunday. But in Ticino: blue sky, 13 °, according to the forecast. So with an early train to Tenero and because I already knew the upper part of the valley well, this time right there from the train station on foot through the city with a view over Lake Maggiore, up into the Verzasca valley. The valley crossed over the dam. This is where James Bond plunged himself into the Golden Eye. Then the old road further uphill to Mergoscia, from there always above the river to Lavertezzo. Everything with blue skies in warm sun, at least where it shone. Where it didn't seem to go, namely at the bottom of the valley, with temperatures that were cool even for Ticino.
In autumn we hiked from Sognono to Lavertezzo – today we tackled the remaining section of the impressive Verzasca gorge. After crossing the famous Ponte dei Salti, we followed the path on the right side of the valley towards Lago Maggiore. Through shady deciduous forest, a varied trail led us, which required a leisurely pace with its stony passages, roots, and small wooden bridges. At the Ponte di Corippo, we were faced with a choice – and decided on the more demanding, but significantly quieter right side. The ascent was challenging: around 450 meters of altitude gain led us up to the saddle above the Alpe Perbiói, before we finally reached Mergoscia. From here, nature unfortunately gave way to asphalt. We accepted the less appealing section to Contra, where we finally boarded the bus back into the valley. The hike from Lavertezzo to Mergoscia is a quiet and exciting continuation of the first stage from Sognono – less spectacular, but all the more solitary and original.