If you are looking for a simple hike in Lombardy, Pescegallo Lake, located in Valgerola, is the perfect destination for a mountain trip for the whole family.
This trail, accessible in all seasons, offers spectacular views, a well-marked path, and the chance to enjoy typical Valtellina dishes at the mountain hut.
Trail details
📍 Departure: Pescegallo cable car station in Valgerola, the hike begins at Rifugio Salmurano
⛰️ Arrival: Pescegallo Lake (1865 m)
⏱️ Travel time: about 2 hours round trip
📏 Distance: 5.3 km round trip
〽️ Height difference: 107 m
🪧 Trail Sign: Trail N. 145
👣 Difficulty: Easy
Trail description
Where to start 🚗
The hike begins at the Pescegallo cable car parking lot, located in Gerola Alta, in the province of Sondrio. The area is easily accessible by car and offers a large free parking lot for visitors.
🥐 Need an energy boost? There’s a bar where you can enjoy a nice breakfast before hitting the trail.
From here, you can choose to:
- Take the Pescegallo cable car, which takes about 10 minutes to reach 1,848 m. The official Pescegallo cable car website has updated schedules and prices.
- Hike up to Rifugio Salmurano on foot, a 45-minute walk. This turns your whole hike into a 4-hour adventure (11 km, 500 m elevation gain).
Whether you take the lift or hike, once you reach Rifugio Salmurano, your adventure begins.
The hike from Rifugio Salmurano to Pescegallo Lake 🥾
Once at Rifugio Salmurano, you’re already surrounded by postcard-worthy views.
If you’re hungry (and let’s be honest—who isn’t on a hike?), treat yourself to some typical Valtellina dishes, like pizzoccheri and polenta. The food at the hut is a real treat 🤤
Starting from the hut, the walk to Pescegallo Lake begins. The trail is wide, partly like an old mule track, well-marked, and easy to follow. It takes about an hour to reach the lake with minimal effort, making it a perfect family-friendly adventure.
Pescegallo Lake in Valgerola: an alpine gem 🏔️
Once you reach Pescegallo Lake, you’re met with a true natural wonder. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the majestic peaks around it.
In winter, the snow turns it into a peaceful, serene corner.
⚠️ Don’t forget your snowshoes or crampons—they’ll help you walk safely without slipping.
In summer, the landscape transforms. Green meadows meet the lake’s blue waters in a contrast so beautiful it looks like a painting.
To return, follow the same trail back, soaking in one last moment of this mountain paradise. Just check the cable car schedule so you don’t get stuck with everything closed.
A fun fact about the trail: the legend of the Homo Selvadego 🧌
If you feel a little shiver while hiking—don’t worry—it might be the Homo Selvadego!
This legendary Alpine forest dweller symbolizes the connection between humans and wild nature. Picture a hairy, muscular man with a club, guarding the mountains and their secrets.
Legend has it that the Homo Selvadego punishes those who disrespect nature’s laws, making him something of a mountain superhero.
His story reminds us to respect the mountains and their mysteries. Who knows—you might even spot him on your hike…
Useful tips 📝
- Best time to go: The trail is suitable year-round. If you’re hiking in winter, bring snowshoes or crampons.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on your chosen starting point. Note for families: the trail is not stroller-friendly.
- Where to eat: The only place to eat along the trail is Rifugio Salmurano. So if you’re the type who can’t hike on an empty stomach, plan a stop there!
Special thanks to insta.valmalenco, massimosertori, buti_claudia, and rifugiosalmurano for the photos.
