Piz Lunghin and the Triple Watershed

The full hike, including the ascent to Piz Lunghin, typically takes around 5 hours and 37 minutes to complete. This estimate is for the specific route described, covering approximately 11 kilometers.

This is considered a difficult hike. While the path to Lunghin Pass is generally moderate, the final ascent to the summit of Piz Lunghin is significantly more challenging. It requires good fitness, sure-footedness, sturdy shoes, and some alpine experience due to exposed sections and difficult passages, often marked as an alpine hiking trail (blue-white).

The trail offers several remarkable features. You'll pass the serene Lake Lunghin, nestled in a valley with rocky buttresses. The most significant highlight is Lunghin Pass, a unique triple watershed. From the summit of Piz Lunghin, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Val Bregaglia, Lake Sils, Lake Silvaplana, and the distant Bernina and Disgrazia mountain groups.

Lunghin Pass is renowned as one of Europe's rare triple watersheds. At this point (2,645m), water runoff flows into three major river basins, eventually reaching three different seas: the Black Sea (via the Danube), the North Sea (via the Rhine), and the Adriatic Sea (via the Po). It's often called the "roof of Europe" due to this unique geographical feature.

Parking is available in Maloja, which serves as the starting point for this hike. Look for designated parking areas within the village, especially near the trailhead, to begin your ascent.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, given the difficult sections, especially towards the summit of Piz Lunghin, ensure your dog is fit and accustomed to alpine terrain. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and be mindful of other hikers.

The best time to hike Piz Lunghin is typically during the summer months (June to September) when the snow has melted, and the weather conditions are most stable. Always check the local weather forecast before you go, as alpine conditions can change rapidly.

No, you do not need a specific permit or to pay an entrance fee to hike this trail or to enter Parc Ela. Parc Ela is a nature park, and access to its trails is generally free. However, always respect local regulations, stay on marked paths, and practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.

The terrain varies significantly. It starts with ascents through meadows, often with hairpin bends. As you approach Lake Lunghin, the landscape becomes more barren and stony, almost lunar. The final climb to Piz Lunghin involves steeper sections, scree, and potentially gentle snowfields, with a narrow ridge that requires sure-footedness.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with several other official trails. You will find parts of the Bernina Tour, Via Engiadina, and Inn-Radweg along the way. Smaller portions also intersect with the Via Bregaglia, Alpine Bike - Etappe 4, Senda Segantini - Etappe 2, Senda Segantini - Etappe 3, and Via Giovanni Segantini.

Yes, Maloja is accessible by public transport. You can typically reach Maloja by bus from St. Moritz or other nearby Engadine villages, making it convenient to start the hike without a private car.