Snowshoeing in Valle Soana between nature and tradition

Where is Valle Soana and why is it an ideal destination for snowshoeing?

Valle Soana is located in the heart of the Piedmont region of the Gran Paradiso National Park, in the province of Turin. It is a wild and authentic valley, where stone villages, coniferous forests, and snowy pastures create a fairy-tale landscape. During winter, the valley transforms into a paradise for snowshoe enthusiasts, with trails that combine nature, culture, and spectacular views. Among the most suggestive are the ascent to the villages of Boschietto and Boschiettiera and the excursion to Pian dell'Azaria, two ideal experiences for those seeking peace and authenticity.

Where to start the snowshoeing for Boschietto and Boschiettiera?

The starting point is Molino di Forzo (1159 m), a small village easily reachable by car. Here begins the historic mule track that gently climbs through broadleaf and coniferous trees, crossing enchanting and lively woods. Alternatively, one can also start from the nearby village of Forzo, or from Tressi, where a beautiful votive pillar is embedded in the rock.

How long does the ascent take and what type of path is it for Boschietto?

The path is easy and pleasant, perfect for those who want to enjoy a quiet mountain day with snowshoes. Starting altitude: 1159 m Arrival altitude: 1486 m Elevation gain: about 320 m Ascent time: 1 hour and 30 minutes – 2 hours. The ascent follows a well-marked mule track, with a regular slope and a moderate incline.

What can be seen along the trail to Boschietto and Boschiettiera?

During the ascent, one encounters chapels and votive pillars carved into the rock, small oratories, and frescoes that tell the spirituality of the mountain communities of the past. The trail crosses silent woods, where it is easy to hear the tapping of woodpeckers or the song of tits. On sunny slopes, one can spot chamois and squirrels moving among the trees. Higher up, the snowy pastures of Boschietto open up, dominated by the majestic Torre Lavina (3308 m), a rock pyramid that overlooks the entire valley.

What is the village of Boschietto like and why is it worth visiting?

Boschietto is a small stone village, with houses featuring slate roofs and wooden balconies, perfectly integrated into the landscape. Time seems to have stood still: the barns, stables, and old huts tell the hard but authentic life of the alpine populations. After a short flat walk, one also reaches Boschiettiera, a little higher up, immersed in the pastures and often frequented by alpine wildlife.

What animals can be encountered in Boschiettiera?

On calm days, it is easy to spot chamois grazing in the snowy meadows, as well as white hares, foxes, and various alpine birds. During winter, the bare larches make it easy to see moving animals, providing excitement for nature and photography lovers.

How to return from Boschietto and Boschiettiera?

The return is made along the same path as the outbound journey, in an environment that completely changes with the afternoon light. Those who wish can stop at Forzo or Molino di Forzo for a photographic break or to discover local traditions related to the Franco-Provençal culture of the valley.

What can be done after snowshoeing at Boschietto and Boschiettiera?

After the walk, one can visit Ronco Canavese, the main center of the valley, where there are typical bars and restaurants serving mountain dishes such as polenta and toma cheese. One can also visit the Visitor Center of the Gran Paradiso Park, which offers educational panels and exhibitions on local flora and fauna. Those wishing to extend their stay can stay in characteristic B&Bs and agritourisms, ideal for experiencing a weekend of tranquility in nature.

Where is Pian dell'Azaria and how is it reached?

Pian dell'Azaria is located in the upper part of Valle Soana, above Campiglia Soana (1350 m). The departure is from the comfortable square of the village, from where a snowy dirt road begins that gently climbs towards the large glacial basin of Azaria.

How long is the snowshoeing to Pian dell'Azaria and what can be seen along the route?

Starting altitude: 1350 m Arrival altitude: 1650 m Elevation gain: 300 m Ascent time: 1 hour and 30 minutes – 2 hours. The trail is easy and panoramic, suitable for families and beginners. At the beginning, it crosses mixed woods of broadleaf and coniferous trees, then the vegetation becomes sparser and gives way to larches and red firs, until reaching the alpe Barmaion. Beyond the pasture opens the magnificent Pian dell'Azaria, a large glacial basin framed by rocky ridges, where silence and the purity of the landscape dominate.

What views can be admired at Pian dell'Azaria?

The view spans the peaks of Rancio and the suspended valleys of the Gran Paradiso Park. The basin is often illuminated by the sun and offers an environment of great serenity and beauty, where one can spot chamois grazing or tracks of wild animals in the snow.

Are there difficulties along the path to Pian dell'Azaria?

The path is simple, but one must pay attention in case of uncompressed snow, especially when crossing gullies. With snowshoes, the trail is generally well-packed and easily traversable throughout the winter season.

What can be done after snowshoeing at Pian dell'Azaria?

After the excursion, one can return to Campiglia Soana to enjoy a typical snack with mountain cheeses and honey, or visit the historic villages of Ronco and Ingria, with their stone houses and quiet alleys. Those wishing to extend the day can participate in a guided excursion with the Guides of the Gran Paradiso Park, which organizes outings dedicated to winter wildlife and nature photography. In the surroundings, there are small refuges and inns where one can stay and experience Valle Soana even at night, immersed in the silence of its small ancient world.