Col Valnera

A very steep climb with no flat sections to catch your breath. Because of these characteristics, the trail sees few hikers.
The route faces east and gets morning sun early, so it’s advisable to start very early to avoid excessive heat.
From the pass, it takes about an hour to descend to the Arp Refuge in Val d’Ayas.
This hike is suitable only for well-trained and experienced hikers.

From the Pont-Saint-Martin motorway exit, turn right toward Turin. At the second roundabout, turn left in the direction of Gressoney.
After a few hundred meters, take the road to the Valle del Lys on the right, passing through the villages of Lillianes, Fontainemore, Issime, and Gaby.
Continue until reaching Gressoney-Saint-Jean, cross the bridge over the Lys stream, pass the tourist office building, and you will find a car park on the right.

From the car park, continue a short stretch along the regional road, and just before the small stream, turn left to follow its edge until reaching a footbridge. Cross the bridge and continue along the opposite bank.
The trail climbs steeply through rocky areas and larch trees until it meets the Walser path. Follow it to the right to reach the lower Alpe Valnera.
Leave the flat Walser trail and continue to the left to reach the ruins of the upper Alpe Valnera. The path continues through rocky valleys, reaching a final small basin with a pond, where the pass comes into view. From here, the last effort brings you easily to the pass.
Return is along the same route