Lago dell'Alpe di Lago

Lago dell'Alpe di Lago is a high-mountain lake in the Swiss canton of Ticino, in the uplands above Biasca. It sits at roughly 2,089 m above sea level and is reached on foot through Val Pontirone, a side valley off the Valle di Blenio. It suits hikers who want a long day out and quiet alpine scenery.

Where is the lake?

The lake lies in the mountains behind Biasca, between Valle Malvaglia and Val Pontirone, at about 46.352° N, 9.021° E. The terrain is a mix of pastures, rock and small glacial lakes. The neighbouring Cava lakes lie on the other side of the Forcarella di Lago pass (2,256 m).

How do you get to Lago dell'Alpe di Lago?

From Biasca, follow the road toward the Valle di Blenio and turn into Val Pontirone at Malvaglia. The road ends near the hamlet of Biborgh (1,313 m), where the trails begin. You can still drive up to Alpe di Sceng (1,548 m), but trail guides recommend taking the footpath that starts at the Sceng bridge.

From Sceng it takes about three hours to reach Alpe di Cava (around 2,005 m). The route then passes the small Cava lakes and climbs to Forcarella di Lago, before descending to the lake at 2,089 m. Some sections are demanding, so bring sturdy boots and good fitness.

There is also a route straight from Biasca (Via Svallo), which takes about five hours on foot. Roads up to Monte Sasso Carnone (533 m) or Monte Fraccione (600 m) can shorten the climb.

Public transport

A bus runs from Biasca SBB station through the Blenio valley as far as Malvaglia-Chiesa. Val Pontirone itself has no public transport, and in winter the valley road is open only to Sant'Anna (Pontironetto).

What will you see along the way?

The trail crosses alpine pastures and passes two small Cava lakes at about 2,051 and 2,107 m. A mountain hut stands at Alpe di Cava (2,069 m), and Alpe di Lago has a hut of its own. Outflow from the lake feeds the Ri della Froda stream, which lower down forms the Santa Petronilla waterfalls, described as the tallest in Ticino.

When should you go?

Aim for high summer and early autumn, when trails at 2,000 m are clear of snow. Check the weather forecast and current trail and hut conditions before setting out, as hut opening times vary by season.

Frequently asked questions

Can you drive to the lake?

No. Cars can reach Biborgh or Alpe di Sceng, and the rest is several hours on foot.

How long is the hike?

From Sceng to Alpe di Cava is about three hours, and reaching the lake itself adds the crossing of Forcarella di Lago. The route from Biasca takes around five hours.

Can you get there by public transport?

Only partly. The bus from Biasca goes as far as Malvaglia-Chiesa, and Val Pontirone has no service beyond that.

Are there mountain huts nearby?

Yes. There is a hut at Alpe di Cava, and Alpe di Lago also has one. Check ahead that they are open.