Ferrata Selvaggio Verde

Overview

Opened in 2022, the Selvaggio Verde Ferrata is an innovative route that winds through the narrow, intricate gorge of the Rio Val Grande, within the Val Grande National Park. More than a traditional via ferrata, it is a technical trekking itinerary composed of numerous equipped sections that connect the localities of "In La Piana" and "Ponte Velina." The difficulty of individual cable sections is generally moderate, but the length, isolation, and rugged profile of the route make it a very demanding undertaking, suitable only for fit and well-prepared hikers. The recommended option is to split it over two days, using the bivouacs available along the way.

Approach

A convenient starting point is the village of Cicogna. Near the local cemetery, take a dirt road that, after a quarter-hour of gentle terrain among huts and pastures, turns into a trail, marking the entrance into the wild territory of the park. The path proceeds with repeated ups and downs among ruins and ancient alpine pastures, featuring short sections protected by chains to overcome some more exposed passages. After crossing the Torrente Velina and passing the alpine pasture of the same name, you reach Ponte Velina (478 m). The approach from Cicogna takes about 3 hours.

Via Ferrata

The core of the Selvaggio Verde stretches between Ponte Velina and Alpe In La Piana (895 m), following the winding course of the Rio Val Grande for about 11 km. The total elevation gain is roughly 450 meters, but the constant alternation of ascents and descents within the gorge multiplies the physical effort. The route, marked as P50, mixes exposed equipped trails with cables and chains, along with unprotected but still technical sections, often on water-polished rock or grassy ledges. You'll encounter two suspension bridges, several wooden walkways (some worn, to be crossed with caution), metal ladders, and stream crossings.

After about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Ponte Velina, you reach the stone bivouac of Orfalecchio (590 m). Shortly before the bivouac, a left deviation offers an escape route toward Ompio and Sciellina, leaving the gorge. Continuing, the environment becomes harsher and more majestic: progress is made among moss-covered walls, narrow airy catwalks, and waterfalls. It is essential to follow the red trail markers precisely, as the path sometimes gets lost in tall grass or among boulders. Concentration must remain high even on the unequipped sections, which are often exposed and slippery. Arrival at Alpe In La Piana occurs after about 7-8 hours from the start of the ferrata, for a total of about 10 hours from Cicogna. Here, it is possible to bivouac.

Descent

From the bivouac at Alpe In La Piana, the recommended return toward Valle Loana takes about 4 hours of walking. Follow trail P30 in the direction of Alpe Scaredi, then take the M14 route toward Fondo Li Gabbi. The first part is uphill, passing the ruins of Alpe Portaiola (1288 m), Alpe Scaredi (1842 m), and Alpe Cortenuovo (1793 m), the latter offering a wide panorama. From here begins the extensive final descent toward Valle Loana. The total time for the entire traverse, including approach, ferrata, and descent, is around 14-15 hours.

Useful Notes

The itinerary takes place in a remote context, devoid of support facilities. It is absolutely necessary to be completely self-sufficient: bring food, water, a sleeping bag, and all the gear needed for bivouacking. The huts offer only basic shelter. Phone coverage is absent for most of the route, making a detailed topographic map indispensable. The trail crosses protected areas, including the Integral Reserve of Monte Pedum and Natura 2000 network sites: it is essential to respect the environment and leave no trash behind.

The route can also be tackled in reverse or reached from other access points such as Bignugno, Ruspesso, or Sciellina, with possible alternative returns toward Premosello or Mottac. Within the Val Grande Park, there are no other classic via ferratas; for those seeking a more technical experience, in the province of Verbania you'll find the Ferrata di Montorfano, the Walserfall, the Ferrata al Pizzo d'Andolla, or those on Lake Maggiore like the Picasass and the Miccia.