Two thousand six hundred metres above the upper lake

Monte Legnone, rising to 2,609 metres, is the highest peak in the province of Lecco and in the western sector of the Orobie Alps. Imposing and unmistakable, it towers over the Colico plain and the upper lake, marking the natural border between the Valtellina and Val Varrone.

The experience

Its clean pyramidal shape offers a summit view stretching across the whole Alpine arc: the lake below, the Valtellina on one side, the Rhaetian Alps opposite and, on clear days, Monte Rosa on the horizon.

We start from Rifugio Roccoli Lorla and climb past Alpe di Agrogno. The hike is long and demanding: 1,350 metres of ascent spread over twelve kilometres, with the upper part on steep, stony ground. Not a climb to underestimate, but one you remember.

This is a hard hike: 1,350 metres of ascent in seven and a half hours, with a steep, stony upper section where a sure step is needed. Good fitness and experience of long climbs required. Bring sturdy boots, poles, plenty of water and a windproof jacket: the ridge is always breezy.

Come with the Guidders: book your place and let's climb the Legnone.

How hard is it, really

What's included in the price

Itinerary

One day, approximate times. The final details come in the group chat.

Day

12 km · D+ 1,350 m · 7h30

Meeting point 8:30approximate

Punto di ritrovo, Strada Militare Del Legnoncino, 23836 Valvarrone provincia di Lecco, Italia. The exact time is confirmed in the group chat. We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.

Paid parking

€5 a day, March to November, 8am–8pm. Pay at the meter, coins or card.

HOW TO GET THERE

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A

08:30MEETING

Meeting at Rifugio Roccoli Lorla

We meet the Guidders at Rifugio Roccoli Lorla, above Valvarrone (LC), where our hike begins. It is a long day, so we start early at a steady pace. The exact time is shared in the outing's Telegram group.

B

10:00MOUNTAIN HUT

Alpe di Agrogno

On the way up we come to Alpe di Agrogno, an open pasture where the woods give way to grassland. This is the halfway stop: from here the ground turns stonier and the summit starts to show itself.

C

12:00SUMMIT

On the summit of Monte Legnone (2,609 m)

The last stretch, steep and stony, brings us to the summit cross. From here the view covers the upper lake and the Colico plain below, the Valtellina, the Rhaetian Alps and the whole Alpine arc. A stop for lunch and photos.

D

16:00MEETING

Back to Roccoli Lorla

We descend the way we came, taking care on the stony ground higher up, then back through pastures and woodland. At the cars we take the time for a toast before saying goodbye.

What to bring

A list made for this hike. No technical gear: just good shoes and a well-packed backpack.

Who joins

Questions?