Advanced Brenta Piccola Trek

Your trek begins in Madonna di Campiglio. Walk along Via Vallesinella to reach Rifugio Vallesinella.The sound of waterfalls will guide you on your ascent through the forest. After a scenic stop at the viewpoint over the Vallesinella cascades, you’ll reach Malga Vallesinella di Sopra—a peaceful alpine hut ideal for a quick break. The trail then climbs steadily through thinning woods and rocky slopes to Rifugio Graffer al Grostè, where you can relax with a good meal and enjoy the warm mountain atmosphere.

From Graffer, the trail crosses high-altitude terrain with open views of the surrounding peaks. As you make your way toward Rifugio Tuckett, you’ll be treated to sweeping panoramas of the Brenta Dolomites and distant glimpses of the Adamello and Presanella ranges. The path winds through alpine meadows and rocky outcrops, ending at this iconic hut where you can unwind beneath the dramatic peaks.

This alternative route is designed for trekkers who still want to experience a via ferrata stage when the Via Ferrata Alfredo Benini is closed. By bypassing the Alfredo Benini section, this variant follows the second half of the original route and joins the SOSAT Via Ferrata, allowing you to continue towards Rifugio Alimonta while avoiding the affected area. We strongly recommend checking current route conditions with the hut warden before setting out. Although shorter than the standard stage, it still offers a challenging high-alpine traverse through the heart of the Brenta Dolomites, with spectacular views of the surrounding limestone peaks, including Cima Brenta and the central Brenta massif.

The highlight of the day is the SOSAT Via Ferrata (Sentiero Ottaviani Segata Alfredo Tosa), one of the classic equipped routes in the Brenta. Although this variant is shorter than the standard route via Alfredo Benini and SOSAT, it remains a demanding mountain stage that should not be underestimated. The via ferrata is generally rated as moderate and requires previous via ferrata experience, sure-footedness, and confidence on exposed terrain. The route includes narrow ledges, cable-protected sections, and several vertical ladders that require concentration and careful movement throughout.

Proper via ferrata equipment is mandatory, including a helmet, harness, and certified via ferrata set. A good head for heights is essential, as much of the route remains exposed throughout the traverse. These sections should only be attempted in stable weather conditions and with good visibility, as wet rock, thunderstorms, or poor visibility can significantly increase the difficulty and objective hazards. After completing the SOSAT Via Ferrata, the route continues across high-alpine terrain before making a final ascent to Rifugio Alimonta, beautifully situated beneath the imposing cliffs of Cima Brenta.

The final day kicks off at Rifugio Alimonta, perched high among the jagged peaks of the Brenta Dolomites. A short climb leads you up to the Bocca dei Armi before beginning your descent, with towering cliffs and sweeping alpine vistas accompanying you along the way.

As you drop down past Rifugio Brentei and into greener valleys, the trail winds through rocky terrain, a mountain tunnel, and peaceful forest paths. Waterfalls begin to appear as you reach the Vallesinella area, where the sound of cascading water welcomes you to the valley. Your trek ends at the welcoming Rifugio Vallesinella – the perfect place to rest and reflect on an unforgettable journey. From there, you can return to the alpine town of Madonna di Campiglio via Via Vallesinella.