Running Collection by Bryan | Exploro Ergo Sum
Trail running in Italy’s Orco Valley – Alta Via Canavesana
5 routes
31:38
145km
11,200m
The Alta Via Canavesana (AVC) is one such adventure. Its name refers to the historic Canavese region through whose mountains it runs. The 145-kilometre (90 mi) loop, which has 11,194 metres (36,725 ft) of elevation gain, promises a legendary experience. The AVC is usually divided into 12 stages. However, as the route is well suited to fastpacking, where you run as fast as possible with ultra-light equipment, I’ve divided it into a challenging five-stage hut-to-hut Tour. For the demanding sections, you’ll need a good level of fitness and high mountain experience. However, no special technical skills are required and the route is suitable for almost anyone embarking on a fastpacking adventure for the first time.
The idea for the AVC came from the sections of the Club Alpino Italiano (CAI) in this region. The route takes you around the Orco Valley, passing through many side valleys such as that of the mountain river Soana. Between Lago di Ceresole and the Soana Valley, the AVC leads through the extraordinary Gran Paradiso National Park and runs along the royal hunting trails commissioned by the Savoy King Victor Emmanuel II. You’ll pass several sanctuaries that are said to have been the scene of miraculous events, magical places such as the plains of the Masche, enchanted villages and old parish churches. The real wonder, however, is the landscape: glacial lakes and imposing basins, rock faces, 3,000-metre (9,800 ft) peaks and the mighty Gran Paradiso, which is 4,061 metres (13,323 ft) high.
The stages, most of which end in cosy huts, allow you to walk lightly. However, I recommend that you take a sleeping bag with you as one night is planned in a well-equipped but unmanaged bivouac hut. It’s a good idea to stock up on energy bars but you can also eat in the huts and restaurants en route. Finding water along the way isn’t difficult. A reliable pair of trail running shoes is essential, as is warm, waterproof clothing to withstand the sudden changes in weather in the mountains.
The ideal time for the AVC is from mid-June to mid-September. Bear in mind that there may still be snow at higher altitudes in the early summer months. You can reach the starting point, Pont Canavese, by public transport by taking the train to Rivarolo and then the bus to Pont station. This last section is normally also served by a train, but it’s currently being replaced by buses.
I hope you have fun on the Alta Via Canavesana.
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Alta Via Canavesana
145km
10,970m
10,970m
Last updated: November 4, 2024
Do it yourself!
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Ready to get going? Create and customize your own version of this adventure using the full route below as a template.
Activities
23.5km
05:16
2,090m
950m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
31.9km
06:40
2,400m
2,380m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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32.5km
08:03
2,620m
2,130m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
36.8km
07:23
2,610m
3,760m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
20.8km
04:16
1,480m
1,990m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Collection Stats
Activities
5
Distance
145 km
Duration
31:38 h
Elevation
11,200 m
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