Overview
Lanzo Crossing is a traverse that links four distinct valleys: Val di Tesso, Valle di Viù, Val d’Ala, and Val Grande. This trek allows you to experience the full range of environments the Lanzo Valleys have to offer: from historic hamlets and mid-mountain woodlands to high-altitude larch forests and alpine lakes. The route crosses mountain passes exceeding 3,000 meters, leading you beneath the imposing peaks that divide the valleys. As an alternative to the GTA (Great Alpine Traverse), it offers the significant advantage of a circular loop that can be completed entirely without a car, thanks to the railway that conveniently serves the start and end points.
It is an itinerary destined to become a classic for fit hikers and high-altitude trekking enthusiasts.
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Stages
1
Lanzo Crossing 1 – From the train to the mountain hut
Lanzo TorineseThe first stage leads from the town of Lanzo Torinese to Rifugio Salvin. The journey begins in Lanzo, reachable by train. After exploring the historic town, the route climbs the southern slopes of the Valle Tesso. You will traverse lush woodlands and ancient hamlets rich in historical and sacred architecture,…
2
Lanzo Crossing 2 – Along the ridgeline of Val Grande
Monastero di LanzoThe second stage leads from Rifugio Salvin to Chialamberto. A highly panoramic stage following the Alta Via Canavesana, straddling the ridge between Val Locana (Gran Paradiso) and Val Grande. While the views are rewarding, the descent from Monte Bellavarda requires careful attention and sure-footedness.
3
Lanzo Crossing 3 – Through woods and ancient alpine pastures
ChialambertoA long but accessible stage that immerses you in the mid-mountain environments of Val Grande di Lanzo. The route winds through atmospheric beech forests and traditional stone hamlets, culminating in the breathtaking viewpoint from the summit of Bec di Mea.
4
Lanzo Crossing 4 – Heaven Can’t Wait
GroscavalloThe fourth stage leads from Forno Alpi Graie to Balme or to the Molino bivouac shelter. A demanding stage due to its length and elevation gain, crossing from Val Grande to Val d’Ala. The route traverses the first section of the striking Vallone di Sea, an area of immense natural…
5
Lanzo Crossing 5 – Climbing towards the glaciers
BalmeThe fifth stage leads from Balme to Rifugio Gastaldi. The most famous itinerary in Val d’Ala. Crossing the scenic Pian della Mussa, the trail ascends in the presence of the Uja di Ciamarella and leads to the foot of the Uja Bessanese, where one of the oldest refuges in the…
6
Lanzo Crossing 6 – Traverse beneath the giants
BalmeThe sixth stage leads from Rifugio Gastaldi to Rifugio Cibrario. A high-altitude traverse leading from the head of Val d’Ala to the upper Val di Viù. The route unfolds through a striking alpine environment dominated by the imposing peaks that form the natural border with nearby France.
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Lanzo Crossing 7 – Through mountain passes and ancient Roman roads
UsseglioThe seventh stage leads from Rifugio Cibrario to Usseglio. A spectacular high-altitude stage that links several mountain passes to reach the Colle dell'Autaret and the scenic Malciaussia basin, before returning to Usseglio. While the itinerary presents no technical challenges, it should not be underestimated due to its significant length and…
8
Lanzo Crossing 8 – In the footsteps of the Holy Shroud
UsseglioThe eighth stage leads from Usseglio to Viù. A long and evocative stage that leads from the upper Val di Viù to the valley’s main town. The route winds through beech forests, crosses mountain streams, and passes through traditional Alpine hamlets. Part of the trek follows the "Percorsi Sindonici" (Shroud…
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Lanzo Crossing 9 – Closing the Circle
ViùThe ninth and final stage leads from the town of Viù to Pessinetto. The concluding stage of the traverse is accessible and manageable, featuring moderate distances and elevation changes. The route climbs through the beautiful valley north of Viù to reach Colle della Cialmetta, before descending back toward Val d’Ala…
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