Capanno Forestale

1.5
Lombardy, Italy

About

Capanno Forestale sits at 2,050m on the flanks of Monte Sissone in Lombardy's Bergamasque Alps. Reach it from Selvino (850m) via the Valle del Riso trail in 3.5 hours, or from Aviatico via the Passo della Ganda in 4 hours. Both approaches climb steeply through beech and conifer forest before breaking into open alpine terrain. This hut works as a base for traverses toward Pizzo della Presolana and the Gruppo della Grigna, as well as for day walks across the high plateaus that characterize this region.

The hut is small and staffed seasonally. It offers basic dormitory accommodation and meals prepared from local ingredients. Water comes from a spring nearby. The facility operates reliably from late June through September; shoulder months can be unpredictable. Check conditions before traveling in May or October. Mobile signal is patchy but usually available outside the building.

Contact the managing body (typically a local forestry authority or CAI section) directly before your visit. Book accommodation at least 2 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. The hut fills with groups doing the Bergamasque Alps circuit during summer holidays. Expect crowded weekends; go mid-week if possible. Bring a headtorch—the hut has limited electricity and uses gas lamps in common areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends, especially July-August; weekdays are more flexible. Contact via rifugio.net or check CAI listings for direct phone contact.
Open June through September with full staffing; weekends only in May and October depending on snow conditions. Check current status before visiting shoulder season.
3.5 hours from Selvino (850m) via Valle del Riso trail, or 4 hours from Aviatico via Passo della Ganda; both routes climb steeply through forest then open alpine terrain to 2,050m.
Expect basic dormitory beds, full meals at dinner, and packed lunches; shower facilities are minimal or cold-water only—typical for a mountain hut at this elevation.
Better for experienced hikers; the 3.5-4 hour approaches are steep and gain 1,200m elevation, demanding solid fitness. Works as a mountaineering base for traverses to Pizzo della Presolana and Grigna, not an easy family destination.

Quick Facts

Managing club
CAI
Season
Total
Dormitory
Emergency
Private rooms

Facilities

Breakfast Half board Meals served Drinking water

Contact & Booking

Email
Phone
Website