Kirchbacher Wipfelam
4.5About
Kirchbacher Wipfelam sits at 1576m in the Julian Alps, reached via the Preone Valley north of Tolmezzo in Friuli Venezia Giulia. The standard approach takes 2.5 hours from Forni di Sopra, following a steady trail through spruce forest that gains 500m elevation. You can also approach from Sella Chianzutan in 3 hours. The hut marks the junction of several ridge walks and is a logical resupply point for multi-day traverses of the Prealpi Carniche.
The rifugio operates year-round and sleeps 40 guests in simple shared rooms. Half-board is standard and meals focus on local mountain food—expect polenta, game, and fresh pasta cooked on a wood stove. Facilities include a small bar, outdoor seating, and a basic shower. Water comes from the spring; there's no electricity except a generator for the kitchen. This is functional mountain accommodation, not comfort lodging.
Book direct by phone or email. July and August fill quickly; aim to reserve by June. Weekends year-round require early booking. The hut is popular with CAI groups, so ask about group discounts if you're a club member. Winter access depends on snow conditions—confirm before ascending. Mobile coverage is patchy; calls to the hut should be made from the valley.
The rifugio operates year-round and sleeps 40 guests in simple shared rooms. Half-board is standard and meals focus on local mountain food—expect polenta, game, and fresh pasta cooked on a wood stove. Facilities include a small bar, outdoor seating, and a basic shower. Water comes from the spring; there's no electricity except a generator for the kitchen. This is functional mountain accommodation, not comfort lodging.
Book direct by phone or email. July and August fill quickly; aim to reserve by June. Weekends year-round require early booking. The hut is popular with CAI groups, so ask about group discounts if you're a club member. Winter access depends on snow conditions—confirm before ascending. Mobile coverage is patchy; calls to the hut should be made from the valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends and July-August; weekdays outside peak season can often be arranged with shorter notice. Contact via rifugio.net or the hut directly for availability.
Open year-round with staff present, though winter access depends on snow conditions and avalanche risk in the approach.
Standard approach is 2.5 hours from Forni di Sopra (500m elevation gain via spruce forest trail); alternative route from Sella Chianzutan takes 3 hours.
Sleeps 40 guests in shared dorm rooms; meals and drinks available—confirm meal options when booking, as availability varies seasonally.
Yes—the 2.5-hour approach from Forni di Sopra is moderate and well-marked, making it accessible for fit families and intermediate hikers; it's an ideal resupply point for ridge traverse experience.
Location
46.6117, 13.1669
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Don't forget to book
This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
4.5
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- AVS
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Activities
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