A hut‑to‑hut loop trek exploring the Brenta Dolomites

In western Trentino Brenta Dolomites stands out vigorously in a succession of peaks and bell towers. This chain stands in an isolated position compared to the other Dolomite massifs and stands out due to its wild and uncontaminated natural environments. Here the atmosphere is different from the rest of the Dolomites: the landscape appears more austere, the rock faces steeper, and the ledges more pronounced, creating a rugged world that has fascinated hikers and mountaineers for generations.

The classic traverse of the Brenta range follows the Sentiero delle Bocchette, known as the most famous high‑altitude via ferrata in all the Dolomites. This legendary route makes use of natural ledges and vertical ladders to connect the mountain huts from Passo Grosté to the Val d'Ambiez.

There is, however, another way to experience the Brenta - more accessible and ideal for those who wish to discover this unique massif without tackling equipped sections or using technical gear. It is a trekking itinerary that unfolds entirely along marked mountain trails, allowing you to complete a hut‑to‑hut journey through the heart of the Brenta Dolomites. Starting from the green forests surrounding Malga Vaglianella and Vagliana, the route gradually leads you toward the rock walls of Passo Grosté, a spectacular approach that immediately offers a taste of the Brenta’s vertical character. You then continue toward the upper Val Brenta, crossing landscapes rich in contrasts until you reach the Vallesinella Waterfalls, one of the most iconic and scenic spots in the entire group.

The entire itinerary follows easy, well‑marked trails with no technical difficulties, and includes overnight stays in welcoming mountain huts equipped with all essential services. You will tackle moderate stages designed to provide a gradual introduction to multi‑day trekking. The tour is well‑suited for a first hut‑to‑hut experience and can also be undertaken by families with children who want to explore this more gentle and immersive way of experiencing the mountains.

Program details:

• Day 1
  Arrival in Val di Sole and check-in in 3* hotel.
   
• Day 2 - GROSTÈ
  Ascent: +640m. Descent: -70m. Altitude: 1560 - 2260m. Distance: 8km. Hiking time: 3h.
  From the bus stop take the path up to Malga Mondifrà. Walking surrounded by a larch forest you reach two other alpine dairies: Malga Vaglianella and Malga Vagliana which surprise you for their characteristic use of stones and wood. Once you reach the edge of the forest, around 2000 metres, the landscape changes radically and you will find yourself surrounded by the typical light gray of the Dolomia rock. Once you reach the hut it is possible to visit the extraordinary archaeological site Orti della Regina along trail 336. It is one of the most beautiful natural terraces in the entire Brenta Group, so called because legend has it that a queen and her entourage came here to plant flowers and shallots. It is famous not only for this legend, but also for the fact that numerous boulders with amazing fossils are still visible. Dinner and overnight stay in a hut.
   
• Day 3 - CENTRAL BRENTA DOLOMITES
  Ascent: +275m. Descent: -270m. Altitude: 2260 - 2440m. Distance: 6km. Hiking time: 2h30.
  Today's trek begins by hiking to the Grosté pass to admire a fantastic new landscape. After this quick climb the path becomes gentler and you walk at altitude without significant differences in height. You will walk on rocky terrain typical of the Dolomites and you will reach the unique location of the hut where you will spend the night. Dinner and overnight stay in hut.
   
• Day 4 - ALIMONTA: DOLOMITE AMPHITHEATER 
  Ascent: +600m. Descent: -685m. Altitude: 2040 - 2580m. Distance: 9km. Hiking time: 5h.
  The first part of the third hiking day is free of significant differences in altitude and offers new splendid views of the Adamello mountain group, in particular the surprising Presanella peak. Once you reach the hut where you spend the night, you can take the trail to easily reach Alimonta hut, where it will be possible to rest in a fascinating natural amphitheater crowded with vertical walls. Return to the previous hut by hiking on the same path. Dinner and overnight stay in hut.
   
• Day 5 - VALLESINELLA WATERFALLS
  Ascent: +40m. Descent: -700m. Altitude: 1510 - 2190m. Distance: 7km. Hiking time: 3h.
  You begin the descent by retracing yesterday's path until you find the signs to reach the Casinei hut. Here you can treat yourself to a tasty break before continuing the hike into the woods taking the Cascate trail so as not to miss the fantastic Vallesinella waterfalls. After enjoying the beauty and freshness of the waterfalls, you reach the Vallesinella bus station where you can decide whether to take the shuttle to Madonna di Campiglio or walk to the alpine town. Bus from Madonna di Campiglio to return to Val di Sole. Dinner and overnight stay in hotel.
   
• Day 6
  After breakfast, check-out and departure.

Additional clarifications

The program could be changed at the discretion of the Campo Base Team / Mountain Guide (UIAGM certified) based on weather conditions and snow levels, maintaining unaltered, however, the basic structure and the aims of the proposal.

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