Trekking in Val Gerola: a rugged hike to a secret destination
Gerola Alta, Sondrio · Lombardia•1 day•Hiking · 1,857 m
Experience
Day hikes
Difficulty ?
INTERMEDIATE
Where?
Sondrio, Lombardia
On your own?
No problem
Points
+16
Community photos
Overview
The experience
Difficulty
What's included
Itinerary
Carpooling
What to bring
Coordinator
Reviews
Questions
WHY THIS HIKE
Val Gerola and its secret destination
A trek in Val Gerola, in the province of Sondrio, designed for those who love to explore without knowing everything in advance. Accompanied by the Guidders, we’ll set off from Pescegallo along a path that immediately leads into the coniferous forest, amidst intense scents and a steep climb. We’ll reach a large artificial lake dominated by an imposing dam, but that won’t be our final destination. We’ll continue along a wilder, rockier track until we reach a hidden natural lake, with crystal-clear waters and incredible colours. A Grade E hike with steep sections and uneven terrain: a sure foot and a spirit of adventure are required.
Group chat a couple of days before
Come alone, leave with new friends
The experience
5 reasons to come
A secret destination waiting to be discovered
Two lakes, double the excitement
A varied trail through woodland and rock
Authentic alpine scenery
A shared Guiddy experience
What makes this hike unique The sense of discovery: setting off without knowing the final destination and letting yourself be surprised step by step, until you reach a hidden lake that doesn’t feature on the usual hiking routes.
Book your place now and come and discover where this trail really leads.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
GOOD TO KNOW
Group chat
It opens a couple of days before: that's where the meeting point is confirmed and carpooling is arranged.
Free cancellation up to 3 days before
You pay nothing when you book.
Recommended age 25–45
It's not a rule: it just tells you what kind of group to expect. You can still sign up if you're outside this range.
Guiddy accident insurance
Included in the price.
+16 Guiddy points
Your points grow with every outing, level you up and unlock discounts, exclusive outings and goodies.
Guiddy Coordinator (runs the group, Telegram included)
Included in the price.
Not suitable for dogs
This time your dog stays at home.
How hard is it, really
Guiddy scale
INTERMEDIATE
F
F+
I
I+
D
D+
630 m D+ · 10 km · 6 h
Easy
Perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without too much effort. Short, well-marked trails with gentle slopes. No technical difficulties, just a desire to walk, breathe in the fresh air, and share the day with a group.
Ideal for: Beginners, families, those who want to take their first steps in trekking.
Easy Plus
A little faster pace, but still accessible. Slightly longer routes or with a few more hills, requiring some walking experience. The terrain is always easy and safe.
Ideal for: Those who walk regularly and want to challenge themselves a little.
Intermediate — this outing
Here we enter the world of true trekking. Steeper climbs, stretches on uneven or longer trails that require stamina. The physical effort is medium to high, and the fatigue is noticeable... but so is the satisfaction!
Ideal for: Those who already have experience and a good level of physical fitness.
Intermediate Plus
When the mountains begin to take their toll. More challenging routes in terms of gradient or duration, with technical sections or uneven terrain. Even a medium elevation gain can be tough if concentrated in just a few kilometers
Ideal for: Trained hikers, accustomed to walking on mountain paths
Difficult
Level suitable for experienced hikers with excellent stamina and surefootedness. The physical challenge is high, and there may be steep sections or possible exposure, which is always noted in the hike description. Perfect for those who enjoy pushing their limits and conquering significant peaks.
Ideal for: Those who already have experience in an Alpine environment and want to challenge themselves.
Difficult Plus
Only for true Guidders with their Wild Spirit at its peak Long routes, significant elevation gain (over 1,100 m), and technical or exposed terrain. Excellent physical preparation, sure-footedness, and the ability to manage fatigue at high altitude are required.
Ideal for: Highly trained and experienced hikers in the mountains.
Exposure and exposed sections
NONE
No exposed sections reported on the route.
VERTIGO RISK
WHAT YOU NEED BEFORE YOU GO
✓
BEFORE YOU GO
Go to bed early, have a good breakfast and drink before you set off: you've got 6 h and 630 m of ascent ahead, if you go to the mountains a couple of times a month, you're fit enough
✓
IN YOUR BACKPACK
Hiking shoes, 1.5 litres of water, a snack and a windproof jacket, plus poles. Always with you: a plaster, an antiseptic wipe and a small bag for rubbish
What's included in the price
✓INCLUDED
✓Guiddy Coordinator (runs the group, Telegram included)
✓Guiddy accident insurance
✕NOT INCLUDED
✕Transport
✕Meals
To get there, there's Guiddy carpooling, below.
Itinerary
One day, approximate times. The final details come in the group chat.
Elevation gain
630 m
Max altitude
1,857 m
Distance
10 km
Duration
6 h
Day
10 km · D+ 630 m · 6 h
The stops · 10 km
Meeting point 9:30approximate
Via Pescegallo 44, 23010 Gerola Alta provincia di Sondrio, Italia. The exact time is confirmed in the group chat. We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.
We’ll park in the car park by the chairlift, where our trail begins
11:30VIEWPOINT
Stage One
After following the path through woods, rocks and streams, we will reach the first viewpoint
12:00VIEWPOINT
Stage two
As we discover our secret location, we’ll find ourselves surrounded by nature’s bounty, where we can relax and enjoy lunch against a backdrop of majestic peaks
15:30RETURN
Return
We’ll follow the same path back and say our goodbyes after this fantastic adventure
How do you get to Gerola Alta? By carpooling.
You say so when booking, then you get organised in the Telegram group. Contacts and costs are agreed between you: a seat isn't guaranteed.
WHO'S ALREADY GOING
Offering a seat Looking for a seat
Cars are added in the last few days, once the group is confirmed.
What to bring
A list made for this hike. No technical gear: just good shoes and a well-packed backpack.
Windbreaker
REQUIRED
Waterproof shell
REQUIRED
Trekking boots
REQUIRED
Layered clothing
REQUIRED
Packed lunch
REQUIRED
Water supply
REQUIRED
Snacks
REQUIRED
Trekking poles
RECOMMENDED
Cap
RECOMMENDED
Sunscreen
RECOMMENDED
Sunglasses
RECOMMENDED
Your Coordinator
Matteo P.
· 1 outings
We'll email you when they have a new outing on the calendar.
Hi Guidders! 🧡 I'm Matteo, a Guiddy coordinator and a CSEN trekking instructor, and a CAI member. The mountains have always been one of my greatest passions: the moment I can, my boots are on and I'm out exploring trails, summits and new views. I love experiencing nature mindfully and respectfully, and I believe a hike is far more than a walk: it's a chance to feel good, share emotions and build connections. Besides the outdoors I'm an ENCI dog trainer and a Red Cross volunteer, where I'm completing my training as an emergency responder. Different worlds, but they taught me the same three things: listen, take responsibility, pay attention to people. If you're a Guidder who likes walking with a smile and wants to be part of a close-knit group, we'll understand each other straight away. 🥾 See you in the mountains, Guidders!
Italiano
Guiddy Coordinator
A Guiddy Coordinator: trained by us, knows the itinerary and keeps the group together from the first day to the last.
We only ask for feedback from people who were really there.
You'll be among the first to share your story.
Questions?
I've only done easy trails, can I come?
⌄
Flat or slightly inclined sections with short stretches on steep slopes and rocks, not tiring or demanding. You need to be fit enough to walk for 6 h with 630 m of ascent. If in doubt, message Ibex on WhatsApp.
Can I join on my own?
⌄
How does carpooling work?
⌄
What happens if the weather is bad?
⌄
What if the group doesn't reach the minimum?
⌄
Until when can I cancel?
⌄
Book now, pay only if it goes ahead
MOST POPULAR
✓No charge now: the amount is only held on your card
✓Free cancellation up to 3 days before
✓You're only charged once the group is confirmed, at 7 pm the evening before departure
✓Minimum not reached? No charge, nothing to do
Or pay straight away by card, PayPal, Satispay or Revolut. With Klarna you can also pay in interest-free instalments.
Still have questions? Message Ibex
Ibex is Guiddy's virtual ibex: it answers everything, 24/7. In two messages it tells you whether this outing is for you, how to get there and what to pack.
Trekking in Val Gerola: a rugged hike to a secret destination
Gerola Alta, (SO) · Lombardia
1 day · Hiking · 1,857 m
New: you'll be among the first Guidders to do it
Elevation gain
630 m
Max altitude
1,857 m
Distance
10 km
Exposed sections
None
Duration
6 h
Guiddy points
+16
▣ 4 photos
WHY THIS HIKE
Val Gerola and its secret destination
A trek in Val Gerola, in the province of Sondrio, designed for those who love to explore without knowing everything in advance. Accompanied by the Guidders, we’ll set off from Pescegallo along a path that immediately leads into the coniferous forest, amidst intense scents and a steep climb. We’ll reach a large artificial lake dominated by an imposing dam, but that won’t be our final destination. We’ll continue along a wilder, rockier track until we reach a hidden natural lake, with crystal-clear waters and incredible colours. A Grade E hike with steep sections and uneven terrain: a sure foot and a spirit of adventure are required.
Come alone, leave with new friends
The experience
5 reasons to come
A secret destination waiting to be discovered
Two lakes, double the excitement
A varied trail through woodland and rock
Authentic alpine scenery
A shared Guiddy experience
What makes this hike unique The sense of discovery: setting off without knowing the final destination and letting yourself be surprised step by step, until you reach a hidden lake that doesn’t feature on the usual hiking routes.
Book your place now and come and discover where this trail really leads.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
How hard is it
Guiddy scale
INTERMEDIATE
F
F+
I
I+
D
D+
630 m D+ · 10 km · 6 h
Easy
Perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without too much effort. Short, well-marked trails with gentle slopes. No technical difficulties, just a desire to walk, breathe in the fresh air, and share the day with a group.
Ideal for: Beginners, families, those who want to take their first steps in trekking.
Easy Plus
A little faster pace, but still accessible. Slightly longer routes or with a few more hills, requiring some walking experience. The terrain is always easy and safe.
Ideal for: Those who walk regularly and want to challenge themselves a little.
Intermediate — this outing
Here we enter the world of true trekking. Steeper climbs, stretches on uneven or longer trails that require stamina. The physical effort is medium to high, and the fatigue is noticeable... but so is the satisfaction!
Ideal for: Those who already have experience and a good level of physical fitness.
Intermediate Plus
When the mountains begin to take their toll. More challenging routes in terms of gradient or duration, with technical sections or uneven terrain. Even a medium elevation gain can be tough if concentrated in just a few kilometers
Ideal for: Trained hikers, accustomed to walking on mountain paths
Difficult
Level suitable for experienced hikers with excellent stamina and surefootedness. The physical challenge is high, and there may be steep sections or possible exposure, which is always noted in the hike description. Perfect for those who enjoy pushing their limits and conquering significant peaks.
Ideal for: Those who already have experience in an Alpine environment and want to challenge themselves.
Difficult Plus
Only for true Guidders with their Wild Spirit at its peak Long routes, significant elevation gain (over 1,100 m), and technical or exposed terrain. Excellent physical preparation, sure-footedness, and the ability to manage fatigue at high altitude are required.
Ideal for: Highly trained and experienced hikers in the mountains.
WHAT YOU NEED BEFORE YOU GO
✓
BEFORE YOU GO
Go to bed early, have a good breakfast and drink before you set off: you've got 6 h and 630 m of ascent ahead, if you go to the mountains a couple of times a month, you're fit enough
✓
IN YOUR BACKPACK
Hiking shoes, 1.5 litres of water, a snack and a windproof jacket, plus poles. Always with you: a plaster, an antiseptic wipe and a small bag for rubbish
What's included
INCLUDED
✓Guiddy Coordinator (runs the group, Telegram included)
✓Guiddy accident insurance
NOT INCLUDED
✕Transport
✕Meals
Itinerary
Day · approximate times
Stops · 10 km
Meeting point 9:30Gerola Alta
We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.
We’ll park in the car park by the chairlift, where our trail begins
11:30VIEWPOINT
Stage One
After following the path through woods, rocks and streams, we will reach the first viewpoint
12:00VIEWPOINT
Stage two
As we discover our secret location, we’ll find ourselves surrounded by nature’s bounty, where we can relax and enjoy lunch against a backdrop of majestic peaks
15:30RETURN
Return
We’ll follow the same path back and say our goodbyes after this fantastic adventure
How do you get to Gerola Alta? By carpooling.
You say so when booking, then you get organised in the Telegram group.
WHO'S ALREADY GOING
Offering a seat Looking for a seat
Cars are added in the last few days, once the group is confirmed.
What to bring
A list made for this hike.
Windbreaker
REQUIRED
Waterproof shell
REQUIRED
Trekking boots
REQUIRED
Layered clothing
REQUIRED
Packed lunch
REQUIRED
Water supply
REQUIRED
Snacks
REQUIRED
Trekking poles
RECOMMENDED
Cap
RECOMMENDED
Sunscreen
RECOMMENDED
Sunglasses
RECOMMENDED
Your Coordinator
Matteo P.
1 outings with Guiddy
Guiddy Coordinator
Hi Guidders! 🧡 I'm Matteo, a Guiddy coordinator and a CSEN trekking instructor, and a CAI member. The mountains have always been one of my greatest passions: the moment I can, my boots are on and I'm out exploring trails, summits and new views. I love experiencing nature mindfully and respectfully, and I believe a hike is far more than a walk: it's a chance to feel good, share emotions and build connections. Besides the outdoors I'm an ENCI dog trainer and a Red Cross volunteer, where I'm completing my training as an emergency responder. Different worlds, but they taught me the same three things: listen, take responsibility, pay attention to people. If you're a Guidder who likes walking with a smile and wants to be part of a close-knit group, we'll understand each other straight away. 🥾 See you in the mountains, Guidders!
We'll email you when they have a new outing on the calendar.
Flat or slightly inclined sections with short stretches on steep slopes and rocks, not tiring or demanding. You need to be fit enough to walk for 6 h with 630 m of ascent. If in doubt, message Ibex on WhatsApp.
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