Alta Via del Granito - Classic

From the Malga Sorgazza hut, now a restaurant, take the spirited hiking trail No. 328 that leads, along Lake Costa Brunella, to Forcella Quarazza. This is where the mountains turn on the charm, with loose rocks, uneven paths, and the occasional scramble where your hands might come in handy. From Forzelon di Rava you can take a detour to, Cimon Rava (2,436 m), which offers stunning views of the peaks of the Cresta del Frate. Descend and continue on 332 to the top of the Val di Rava, eventually arriving at Forcella Ravetta. Now descend sharply, passing under the northern slope of the imposing Cima Caldenave and order a beer at the eponymous classic Rifugio Caldenave.

Descend from Rifugio Caldenave to the plateau, cross the stream, and follow path 360 through the scenic Val dell’Inferno, passing several alpine lakes on the way to Forcella delle Buse Todesche. From there, continue north on path 373 along the eastern slopes of the Cengello and Cima Lasteati until you reach Forcella Magna, a historic pass connecting Val Sorgazza with Alta Val Cia. During World War I, this pass was accessible via a cart road used by Italian troops to install large artillery, the ruins of which can still be seen today.

From Forcella Magna, the trail climbs steeply toward Passo Socede on path 380. It’s a demanding but rewarding stretch, requiring some effort as it zigzags through rugged granite terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of WWI trenches before reaching a fork just before the pass. From here, it’s another 15 minutes to Rifugio Cima d’Asta (Ottone Brentari).

From Rifugio Cima d'Asta descend to the foot of the cable car. Then along the forest road to Malga Sorgazza, where the hike ends. From the hut, if you have the time and want to make more of your Alta Via del Granito, we recommend the ascent of Cima d'Asta (2,847 m - 1 hour 15 minutes / 370 m difference in altitude), the highest summit of the group and, of course, again fantastic views.