Explore the Orobic Trail: A Hike from Ardesio to Alpe Corte Refuge This page describes the first stage of the Orobic Trail to the Alpe Corte Refuge, a circular hiking route that winds through the majestic mountains of the Bergamo Orobie range. This first section, from Ardesio to the Alpe Corte Refuge, offers a rewarding trekking experience, amidst varied landscapes and charming mountain villages.
Remember to pack your "Orobic Passport" – it's the perfect way to collect stamps at the rifugios and create a lasting memory of your Orobic adventure!
The trail begins with a descent towards the Serio River, passing through the area near the hydroelectric power plant. Ascending along the road that leads to the hamlets of Cacciamali and Cerrete, you'll reach the Alpini Chapel. From here, the path becomes more challenging, climbing to an elevation of about 800 meters where it meets a forest road. This section offers a wonderful opportunity to observe the local flora and fauna.
After crossing the stream near Albareti, the trail continues along the "Acqualina" nature path, which leads to an old restored sawmill, a symbol of the area's artisan tradition. Upon reaching Valcanale, situated at 987 meters (3238 feet), follow the Alpe Corte road to its end. Here, the journey culminates at the Alpe Corte Refuge, at an altitude of 1415 meters (4642 feet), an ideal place for a rest and to enjoy the surrounding panorama.
Ardesio - Serio River Bridge: The trail gently descends towards the Serio River, crossing it near the hydroelectric power plant.
Ascent towards Cacciamali/Cerrete: Continue uphill, following the road that leads to the hamlets of Cacciamali and Cerrete, until you reach the road to the Alpini Chapel.
Alpini Chapel - Forest Road: After passing the chapel, the most challenging section of the trail begins, with a climb that reaches an altitude of about 800 meters, where it intersects a forest road.
Valcanale: The forest road leads to Valcanale, crossing the stream near Albareti. Here you can follow the "Acqualina" nature path, which passes by an old restored sawmill.
Valcanale - Alpe Corte Refuge: Once you reach Valcanale (987 m), follow the Alpe Corte road to its end, where you'll take the forest road that leads to the Alpe Corte Refuge (1415 m).
Points of Interest Ardesio: The starting point of the itinerary, Ardesio is a town of about 3,000 inhabitants located in Val Seriana. Be sure to visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie, built in 1600 following a miraculous apparition. Valcanale: This valley extends along the Acqualina stream, in an area rich in pastures and dense vegetation. Alpe Corte Refuge: Located at 1,410 meters (4626 feet) above sea level in Alpe Corte, this refuge sits in a grassy basin surrounded by coniferous forests at the foot of Pizzo Arera. The refuge, open year-round, also offers food and drinks. Additional Tips Along the route, you can admire splendid views of the surrounding mountains, such as Pizzo Arera, Monte Secco, and Monte Fop. The best time to tackle this stage is from June to September, when the weather is milder and the risk of snow is lower. It is recommended to wear hiking boots and appropriate clothing for the mountains, and to bring enough water and food. You can stay overnight at the Alpe Corte Refuge; booking is recommended.
