Passo della Vacca – Corni di Canzo
Elevation: approx. 1,230 m
Difficulty: EE (Expert Hikers) / T4
Exposure: high on the south side (vertical drop)
Passo della Vacca is a characteristic rock notch located along the crest of the Western Horn of the Corni di Canzo, in the Larian Triangle. It is located just below the summit, at approximately 1,230 meters above sea level, and ideally connects the Ravella Valley (Canzo) with Valbrona, offering a suggestive and delicate passage in the crest crossing of the three Corni.
Morphologically, it appears as a clear fracture in the rock, approximately 40 cm wide at the base but which widens towards the top, creating an exposed point with a vertical precipice on the south side, above the so-called Camino Gandin (an 80-meter gully). On the north side, however, it descends into a steep grassy gully, more accessible but still sloping. Its particular shape creates a natural “window effect”: at sunset, the sun can filter through the rock and make the hole visible from the valley floor.
It is a must-see for those who reach the Corno Occidentale via the ridge from the west or from the Ferrata del Venticinquennale, and is part of routes classified EE (Expert Hikers) due to its exposure. The section is not equipped: there are no chains or cables. The crossing is done by supporting yourself with your hands and feet, lowering yourself on the north side to cross the gap safely. It does not present any real mountaineering difficulties, but requires a sure step, an absence of vertigo and maximum concentration, especially with a bulky backpack or in the presence of wind.
The Passo della Vacca can be reached from path no. 1 from Canzo passing through Terz’Alpe, or from Colma di Pianezzo and Rifugio SEV via the ridge. Once passed, in a few minutes you reach the summit cross of the Corno Occidentale (1,373 m). From here you can continue with the complete crossing of the three Corni (Western, Central, Eastern) or descend towards the SEV Refuge.
It is not recommended in the presence of snow or ice, when it becomes an alpine passage and may present verglas. In summer, however, it should be avoided in case of storms or crowds. The ideal is to tackle it in spring or autumn with dry rock. Although it is short and technically simple, it is a stretch where caution is essential: in the past, even serious accidents have occurred, often caused by distraction or underestimation of the danger.
The Passo della Vacca is a symbol of the wild charm of the Corni di Canzo: a place that offers strong emotions and spectacular views, reserved for those who have experience, attention and respect for the mountains.