Monte Cornizzolo 1241m (Canzo LC)

Type: Interesting

Description:
30/4/17 Loop trail. Canzo - Fonte Gaium - Terz'Alpe - Monte Rai - Rif. Sec - Cornizzolo - Fonte Gaium - Canzo
A loop itinerary from Canzo (Gajum) to Terz'Alpe passing through Sasso Malascarpa, Monte Rai, Monte Cornizzolo and San Miro. From the Canzo train station, follow the signs to the Gajum springs (20'): from here follow the cobblestone road to a hairpin bend, then take the path towards Terz'Alpe: this first section is part of the geological trail (see numerous educational panels) where there are numerous erratic boulders from Valtellina and Val Masino scattered around. The path follows the river course, crossing it here and there on small wooden bridges and also encountering a spring. Upon reaching Terz'Alpe (refreshment available) continue the ascent towards Corni di Canzo and after a few minutes turn right towards Colma di Val Ravella. The path winds through hazel, hornbeam, maple and ash woods first reaching a meadow from where it then climbs steeply to Colma di Val Ravella. This is the boundary of the Sasso Malascarpa reserve as well as that of the Montana Community. From here several paths branch off: one climbs left towards Corni di Canzo, another continues towards Valmadrera and Monte Moregallo, while to the right it climbs towards Sasso Malascarpa. The itinerary involves climbing towards the latter through a steep path in the shade of a fir forest, until reaching a rocky area that soon leads to the summit ridge. The panorama opening before the eyes is remarkable: ranging from Monte Rosa, to Cervino up to Finsteraarhorn (western Alps) as well as Monte S. Primo, Badile, Cengalo (Rhaetian Alps), the Grigne and Corni di Canzo. Also noteworthy is the view of the plain and the Apennines on fine days as well as Biranza and Milan. From here follow the panoramic ridge towards Monte Rai. After a few minutes there is the possibility to descend to a viewpoint (5 min) to admire particular geological formations. Just before the antenna you can choose whether to continue towards rifugio SEC - Monte Cornizzolo or to the summit of Monte Rai (about 40 min). From Rifugio SEC continue along an evident track to Monte Cornizzolo where there is a large summit cross. From the summit descend again to the refuge and return towards Monte Rai: near the fire pond turn left and follow the path leading to Alpe Alto where there is a picnic area and a spring. From there descend following the signs for Gajum and S. Miro, following an itinerary that first passes through a fir forest, then descends through a sparse wood to reach the river and soon arrives at S. Miro, founded in the 17th century: although extensively rebuilt to the point of looking brand new, it still gives a pleasant atmosphere to this quiet little corner: the right place for a short stop before the more demanding ascent; also recommended to stock up on miraculous water at the nearby fountain (obviously the spring gushed thanks to the prayers of the hermit San Miro - 14th century - who lived here in retreat feeding on berries and sleeping on the bare ground).

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Video length: 12:10