4.8
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1,145
hikers
Aosta Valley High Route 2 - Stage 9
06:48
15.4km
990m
Hiking
Embark on the Aosta Valley High Route 2 - Stage 9, a challenging hike that takes you deep into the Gran Paradiso National Park. This difficult route covers 9.6 miles (15.4 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 3257 feet (993 metres), requiring about 6 hours and 47 minutes…
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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2.18 km
Ibex in Gran Paradiso National Park
Highlight • Natural
Translated by Google •
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2.31 km
Paradisia Alpine Garden
Highlight • Natural Monument
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8.69 km
XII Apostoli Range
Highlight • Summit
9.52 km
Pedestrian Warning Sign in Gran Paradiso National Park
Highlight • Structure
9.77 km
Torrent de Grand Loson
Highlight • River
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10.7 km
View of Monte Herban
Highlight • Viewpoint
11.2 km
Alpine ruin with cattle trough
Highlight • Structure
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11.3 km
Grand Loson Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
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13.1 km
Bar Ristorante Valnontey
Highlight • Restaurant
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13.2 km
Valnontey and Valnontey River, Gran Paradiso National Park
Highlight • River
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15.4 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
11.0 km
3.69 km
478 m
143 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
9.05 km
3.61 km
1.70 km
724 m
232 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,580 m)
Lowest point (1,580 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Sunday 17 May
4°C
-1°C
53 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 4.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is Stage 9 of the Aosta Valley High Route 2?
Stage 9, which descends from Vittorio Sella Refuge to Cogne, is generally considered a moderate hike. While the Alta Via 2 as a whole is challenging, this specific stage requires good physical fitness and sure-footedness on mostly accessible paths.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?
The terrain is diverse, transitioning from higher alpine environments to more settled valley areas. You'll encounter marked alpine paths on stable soil, grassy sections, rocky areas, and some scree. Expect picturesque views of larch forests, glacial cirques, and traditional pastoral hamlets.
What are the main natural features and viewpoints along the way?
This stage offers deep immersion in the natural beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park. You can enjoy views towards major Alpine giants like Gran Paradiso and the southern edge of Monte Rosa. Notable natural features include the Torrent de Grand Loson, the Grand Loson Waterfall, and the Valnontey River. Keep an eye out for the View of Monte Herban.
What wildlife might I see in Gran Paradiso National Park?
Gran Paradiso National Park is renowned for its wildlife. Hikers often spot chamois, golden eagles, and the iconic Ibex, especially in the higher alpine sections.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for hiking in Gran Paradiso National Park?
Generally, there are no specific entrance fees or permits required for hiking on established trails within Gran Paradiso National Park. However, it is a protected area, so visitors must adhere to park regulations, such as staying on marked paths, not disturbing wildlife, and not collecting plants or minerals.
Is this trail dog-friendly?
Hiking with dogs in Gran Paradiso National Park is subject to strict regulations to protect wildlife. Dogs are generally not allowed on most trails within the core zone of the park, even on a leash. It's best to check the official Gran Paradiso National Park website for the most current and detailed rules regarding dog access before planning your hike.
What is the best time of year to hike this stage?
The best time to hike this stage of the Alta Via 2 is typically from late June to early September. During this period, the snow has usually melted from higher passes, and the weather is generally more stable. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before you go.
Where does the trail start, and is there parking or public transport access?
Stage 9 typically starts from the Vittorio Sella Refuge and descends towards Cogne. For accessing the start of this stage, you would generally need to hike to the refuge first. Cogne, the endpoint, is accessible by public transport, with bus services connecting it to Aosta. Parking options are available in Cogne for those arriving by car.
Are there any facilities like cafes or restaurants along the route?
As this stage descends from a refuge to a town, you'll find facilities at both ends. The Vittorio Sella Refuge offers food and accommodation. Upon reaching Valnontey, you can find the Bar Ristorante Valnontey, and more options are available once you reach Cogne.
Does this trail intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, this route is part of the larger Alta Via n. 2 della Valle d'Aosta. Specifically, this stage is designated as "Alta Via n. 2 della Valle d'Aosta - Tappa 9". You may also encounter short sections of the "Sentiero 22E Bivacco Martinotti" and "Alta Via n. 2 della Valle d'Aosta - Tappa 8" near the start.
What are some unique points of interest on this stage?
Beyond the stunning natural beauty, you might encounter the Paradisia Alpine Garden, a beautiful botanical garden showcasing alpine flora. There's also an Alpine ruin with cattle trough, offering a glimpse into traditional pastoral life, and a Pedestrian Warning Sign unique to Gran Paradiso National Park.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
The ibex hike through the Gran Paradiso Natural Park to Pascieux and Gran Lauson is an unforgettable experience, in a very beautiful natural paradise. The route offers breathtaking views of the Alpine region and, with a bit of luck, the opportunity to observe ibex, chamois and golden eagles/bearded vultures in their natural habitat. The starting point of the hike was in the heart of the Gran Paradiso Natural Park, one of the oldest national parks in Europe. From here the route led through the impressive landscape of mountains, valleys and forests. The path was well marked and had a steady climb (830 meters in altitude) that rewarded with impressive landscapes and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. In Pascieux, a long-abandoned settlement awaited us at the foot of the mountains. The further steep climb to Gran Lauson was worth it because we saw a large number of chamois on the lower slopes. I suspect there wasn't an ibex there, unfortunately. But I can only determine this at home when I evaluate the images from the camera. A pair of bearded vultures drew attention with their unmistakable call as they circled close to the rock walls and looked for prey. After a while of wildlife watching we left Gran Lauson. Past an inhabited house that was guarded by two powerful, “chained” livestock guard dogs, we walked at a distance from the building, the same way back to our starting point. We rejected the return route I had originally planned in favor of my wife, as the alpine path down the valley would have been too difficult. This ibex tour through the Gran Paradiso Natural Park to Pascieux and Gran Lauson was an unforgettable experience that thrilled us. With the breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to observe chamois and bearded vultures in their natural habitat, this route offered us a sustainable experience.
Magnificent, very well-maintained paths, the ascent is gradual and at first in the forest. We thought of doing the loop indicated on komoot via the lake of Lauson then continuing on path 18B down towards the bottom of the valley but following the damage caused by the bad weather of 2024, the path is closed... So, from the lake, reverse all the way, we went back down the same way. Interesting little tip, the parking is paid in Volnontey (5€/day) except for a few spaces on the far right of the parking lot, white lines confirmed free by the carabinieri... 😉