The most beautiful snowshoe hikes in Lombardy
Walking on snow with snowshoes is a unique experience, combining breathtaking views and pure relax.
Lombardy is a perfect destination for mountain and winter lovers, offering a wide range of routes ideal for unforgettable snowshoeing hikes. With snowshoes on your feet, you can explore enchanting landscapes, enjoy the silence of nature, and immerse yourself in an authentic winter adventure. Here are some recommended itineraries if you are approaching snowshoeing for the first time.
SNOWSHOEING IN PIANI DI ARTAVAGGIO
Hiking time: 1 hour
Total distance: 3 km
Elevation gain: 300 m
Starting point: Moggio
Recommended SCARPA Boot: Moraine Polar
Among the snow-covered peaks of Lombardy, the Piani di Artavaggio offer a magical setting for those looking for a snowshoeing adventure. This location, just a short distance from Moggio and easily reachable from Milan, is one of the most popular destinations for snowshoeing in Lombardy.
Imagine taking the cable car that, in just a few minutes, takes you right into the heart of a breathtaking alpine landscape. Once at the top, the trail leading to Rifugio Cazzaniga Merlini unfolds along a well-marked path, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers. The snowshoe hike covers about 3 km, with an elevation gain of only 300 meters, and requires about one hour of walking. Its difficulty is rated as easy, making it ideal for anyone wanting to discover snowshoeing routes in Lombardy without too much effort.
Once you reach Rifugio Cazzaniga Merlini (1,900 m), you’ll be welcomed by spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Here you can enjoy typical mountain dishes before continuing, if you wish, towards the summit of Piazzo. This second stretch is short, with an elevation gain of about 150 meters, and rewards you with an unforgettable panorama.
SNOWSHOEING IN VALMALENCO – LAGO PALÙ
Hiking time: 1.5 hours
Total distance: 3.5 km
Elevation gain: 250 m
Starting point: Chiesa in Valmalenco
Recommended SCARPA Boot: Rush Polar
Valmalenco, in the heart of the Rhaetian Alps, is a must-see destination for winter trekking lovers. Among the many routes available, the one leading to Lago Palù is one of the most fascinating snowshoe hikes in Lombardy, perfect for those seeking a mix of unspoiled nature and relax.
The itinerary begins in Chiesa in Valmalenco, where you can take a comfortable cable car up to Alpe Palù. From there, the trail to the lake stretches for about 3.5 km, with a total elevation gain of around 250 meters. The difficulty is moderate, making this snowshoe hike suitable for families and for those looking for excursions that combine beauty with ease.
When you arrive at Lago Palù, the scenery is postcard-worthy. In winter, the lake turns into a frozen expanse, surrounded by dense coniferous forests and towering mountains. This is the perfect spot for a refreshing break, perhaps while sipping a hot chocolate in one of the nearby mountain huts.
TIPS FOR SNOWSHOEING
To best enjoy your hike, it is important to wear proper snowshoeing boots that ensure good sole grip, warmth, and waterproof protection.
Gaiters can also be very useful, especially when the snow is deep. Without them, snow can enter from above and wet your socks, causing discomfort.
Also, discover the best places for ski mountaineering in Lombardy.
