Corno dell'Agna Loop Trail

Hikers typically start their journey from Sant'Antonio. You can find parking in the village, and then proceed on a carriage road (CAI 129) towards Rifugio Brandet. From there, the trail to Lago dell'Agna begins.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it is located within the Riserva Naturale Valli di Sant'Antonio, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure their safety, especially in areas with livestock or steep sections.

The best time to undertake this hike is typically during the late spring, summer, and early autumn months (June to September). During these periods, the weather is generally more stable, and the alpine lake and surrounding pastures are at their most beautiful. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for hiking within the Riserva Naturale Valli di Sant'Antonio. However, it's important to respect the reserve's regulations, such as staying on marked trails, not disturbing wildlife, and carrying out all your trash.

The hike from Rifugio Brandet to Lago dell'Agna involves a significant ascent of approximately 900 meters. It typically takes around 2.5 hours of walking one way from the Rifugio to the lake, making the round trip roughly 5 hours of active hiking time, not including breaks.

The terrain is varied and challenging. After leaving Rifugio Brandet, you'll follow a carriage road for a stretch, then deviate onto CAI 129B which ascends steeply through dense forest. Further up, the trail emerges into open pastures with old farmhouse ruins. The final approach to the lake can involve rocky or slightly slippery sections, especially near streams. Sure-footedness is essential.

The hike offers stunning natural beauty within the Val Brandet. You'll encounter numerous streams, small waterfalls, and secluded clearings. Notable highlights include Fallen Trees and a Stone Fountain in Riserva Naturale Valli di Sant'Antonio. The ultimate reward is Lago dell'Agna itself, a beautiful alpine lake nestled between Corno dell'Agna and Monte Sessa.

This specific route to Lago dell'Agna from Rifugio Brandet is primarily an out-and-back trail. You will return along the same path after reaching the lake.

Rifugio Brandet, at the start of the main ascent, offers facilities. Along the trail itself, you'll find numerous streams and small waterfalls, which can be sources of water, but it's always advisable to carry sufficient water or use a water filter for safety. There are no other official facilities directly on the path to the lake.

While you might find references to CAI trail 131 in other contexts, the hike to Lago dell'Agna from Rifugio Brandet is consistently identified with CAI trail 129B. CAI trail 129 is the main route leading to Rifugio Brandet from Sant'Antonio. It's important to follow the markings for CAI 129B once you're past the Rifugio.

Yes, the route to Lago dell'Agna from Rifugio Brandet follows CAI 129B. This path is an offshoot of CAI 129, which leads to Rifugio Brandet. Additionally, a small section of the route (approximately 8%) overlaps with the Sentiero Malga Barbione.