Pila

From the centre of Alpenwood, the route climbs past iconic spots, lakes and mountain huts, before continuing upwards through more austere and steep terrain until reaching 3,500 metres above sea level. A journey of stark contrasts and thrilling experiences, where the silence of the high mountains makes every effort worthwhile.

Regulations:

The information provided here is for guidance only. All routes have been described and checked, but conditions may change; fallen trees or minor disruptions may increase the difficulty of the route, and in such cases it is advisable not to continue. It is always important to check in advance whether the routes are passable.

The downloadable GPS tracks available on the portal, whilst having been created with the utmost care, are merely one of the many tools that technology provides for viewing the suggested routes online; under no circumstances do they replace the local knowledge and navigational skills required to undertake the hike.
The decision to use the GPS tracks provided on the website and available on the portal is the sole and exclusive responsibility of the user. Under no circumstances shall we be held liable for the accuracy of the GPS tracks available for download on the website, nor for any damage that may be caused to users and/or third parties as a result of using them. Should you identify any errors, please report them to us.

Hiking is an activity that involves inherent risks. In accordance with Law 131/2025, responsibility for safety lies with the user, who is required to assess their own physical and technical abilities, as well as the suitability of their equipment in relation to weather and terrain conditions. The website operator accepts no liability for any damage or accidents arising from the use of the routes described.

Before setting off, always consult the regulations at the following link: https://pila.it/en/trekking-regulations/

Trail difficulty: EE

Trails used: 102

Hiking time: 6:00h

Description:

From the centre of Pila, you need to walk down a few metres until you reach the Chamolé chairlift. This takes you to Lake Chamolé, where the route begins. Once in Pila, head to the Chamolé chairlift, which takes you to the lake of the same name, where you can join the route. From here, take the ‘Sentiero delle Marmotte’ (Marmot Trail), which is steep at first but then flattens out, with a few benches along the way where you can rest. In about 15 minutes, you’ll reach the first stop on this route: Lake Chamolé. From here, turn right at the only junction to join path 102. The path climbs more steeply but presents no technical difficulties. After about an hour and a quarter, you’ll reach the summit. The route continues down a steep descent, where it’s essential to use the ropes provided for this purpose. In about half an hour, you’ll arrive at the Arbolle Mountain Hut. From the refuge, the path runs along the right bank (as viewed from above) of Lake Arbolle, crosses it and continues gently, beginning to climb the slope alongside the stream. You continue along scree and rocky outcrops, following faint trail marks, until you reach the end of the valley: a ridge with two barely discernible depressions, separated in the centre by a rocky outcrop. At the next junction, turn right and head for the Col d’Arbole pass, 3,154 m, signpost 102; to the left, the path climbs towards the very prominent rocky pinnacles – these are the Col des Trois Capucins, 3,241 m – which mark the access point to the Emilius. Climb along path no. 14 to reach the final section of the Trois Capucins ridge, 3,241 m.

From here, the ascent continues steadily, with a choice between two possible routes: the tempting passages along the east-facing section of the face, though treacherous due to its steepness, or heading almost immediately for the ridge line and following it with easy climbing (Grade 1) until emerging onto the traverse leading to the final summit; the summit is at 3,559 m.

Points of interest: Lake Chamolé, Arbolle Mountain Hut, Col des Trois Capucins, Mount Emilius

We recommend enjoying this itinerary with the support of experienced local guides, who can enrich your visit with stories, practical information, and fascinating insights that will make your experience truly unforgettable. For information and bookings:

NATURALISTIC HIKING GUIDES