Val Formazza Famiglia Trek

The hike starts high above the valley at the mountain station, where the cable car fades from view and the silence of the alpine bowl takes over. Gentle paths lead through grassy slopes and scattered rocks, with wide views towards the rounded summit of Nufenenstock. It is a relaxed introduction, perfect for families to get used to the altitude and the open, bright landscape around Val Corno.

The route first dips slightly towards the pastures around Mandelli, crossing streams and small bridges where the water runs straight from the snowfields. From here the path begins to climb in easy zigzags into the upper valley. The further you go, the more the massif of Corno Gries appears, with traces of old glacier and wind-carved ridges above the trail.

The final stretch traverses a rocky slope on a well-marked path, with one last short climb to reach the stone buildings of Capanna Corno Gries. The hut sits like a balcony above the valley, with plenty of flat rocks for children to explore. Inside you find a welcoming dining room, warm drinks and simple family rooms, the ideal place to settle in for the night.

From the hut the day unfolds almost like a balcony walk, staying high above the valleys while slowly crossing from Switzerland into Italy. The landscape is wide and open, with Corno Gries and Piccolo Corno Gries keeping you company on the skyline. It feels adventurous yet manageable, a good mix for curious kids and relaxed parents.

The route begins with an easy traverse on mountain paths towards Passo di San Giacomo at about 2,308 metres. Along the way you pass small tarns, old border posts and traces of former military tracks. After the pass the trail bends south, and the scenery softens as you leave the rocky crest behind and enter Italian ground.

A gentle descent leads to the shores of Lago Toggia, its reservoir framed by grass slopes and the distant ridge of Blinnenhorn. Following the track around the water, you soon spot Rifugio Maria Luisa on a small rise near Lago Castel at 2,224 metres. The hut welcomes families with a sunny terrace, hearty food and plenty of space to stretch tired legs.