Trail 113: Carcoforo to Colle della Bottiggia

The trail starts in the charming village of Carcoforo. Parking is generally available in the village, which serves as the primary trailhead for this route.

This route is rated as difficult due to its length (approximately 9.4 km one way) and significant altitude difference of about 1158 meters. The final ascent to Colle della Bottiggia is strenuous and involves rocky terrain. It is not recommended for beginners or young families without prior alpine hiking experience and adequate equipment.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll start on a shared path, then pass through sparse larch woods with rhododendrons and berries. Higher up, it opens into vast pastures, smooth rock slabs, and scree fields, remnants of ancient glaciers. Small streams are also present. The final section to the pass is rocky and arduous.

The trail offers a grand variety of high-mountain environments. You'll pass by Alpe Massero, which also hosts Rifugio Massero. From Colle della Bottiggia (2607m), you're rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Val Quarazza, the south and east faces of Monte Rosa, and peaks like Cima Jazzi and Strahlhorn.

The best time to hike this route is typically from late spring to early autumn, generally June to September. Snowfields can persist until late summer in the valley preceding the pass, so be prepared for varied conditions. Rifugio Massero is open and guarded from June to September.

While specific regulations for dogs on this exact trail are not detailed, it's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash in alpine environments, especially in areas with wildlife or grazing animals. Always ensure your dog is capable of handling the strenuous terrain and altitude.

As this trail is located within Parco Naturale Alta Valsesia, there are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required for hiking. However, always respect park regulations regarding waste, wildlife, and trail etiquette.

Yes, sections of this route intersect with other official trails. You'll find it overlaps with parts of B98a - Alpe Schena - Colle della Bottigia, GTA: Carcoforo - Rima, Sentiero Italia - Tappa E48, and Straa par al Massero.

Yes, the Rifugio Massero, located at 2082m, offers a perfect resting spot about 2.5 hours into the hike. It is open and guarded from June to September, providing an opportunity for a break and potentially refreshments.

This route is notable for its historical significance as the most convenient trade and mining route between Carcoforo and Macugnaga. It also offers incredibly diverse alpine ecosystems, from larch forests to glaciated landscapes, and provides breathtaking panoramic views of Monte Rosa from the pass. It's a truly immersive alpine wilderness experience.

Given the trail's difficulty and alpine environment, you should bring sturdy hiking boots, appropriate layers of clothing for changing weather, rain gear, plenty of water, snacks, a map and compass or GPS device, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Trekking poles are highly recommended for the steep and rocky sections.