Moderate
About
Rifugio Pietro Crosta sits at 1,750m in the Piedmont Alps, easily reached via the Maira Valley from Acceglio. The main approach takes 2 hours 30 minutes from Ponte Maira, climbing steadily through meadow and light forest on a well-marked CAI path. The hut works as a base for day hikes across the surrounding ridges and as a stopover on longer traverses toward the Ligurian Alps. Most visitors use it to access peaks above 2,500m that dominate the upper valley.
The refuge sleeps 40 in dormitories and a handful of private rooms. Half-board is the standard offering—dinners feature regional Piedmont cooking, and packed lunches are available for day hikers. Water comes from a reliable spring. The hut stays open mid-June through mid-September, with weekends only in shoulder months. Phone ahead if you plan to arrive outside peak season. Basic camping is permitted on the flat ground immediately below the building.
Book directly through CAI at rifugi.cai.it or contact the hut directly (numbers and email available through the CAI listing). July and August weekends fill 4-6 weeks ahead. June and September are easier to secure. The hut warden welcomes advance notice if you're bringing a large group or need specific meals. Pay in cash or by bank transfer—card facilities are unreliable at this elevation.
The refuge sleeps 40 in dormitories and a handful of private rooms. Half-board is the standard offering—dinners feature regional Piedmont cooking, and packed lunches are available for day hikers. Water comes from a reliable spring. The hut stays open mid-June through mid-September, with weekends only in shoulder months. Phone ahead if you plan to arrive outside peak season. Basic camping is permitted on the flat ground immediately below the building.
Book directly through CAI at rifugi.cai.it or contact the hut directly (numbers and email available through the CAI listing). July and August weekends fill 4-6 weeks ahead. June and September are easier to secure. The hut warden welcomes advance notice if you're bringing a large group or need specific meals. Pay in cash or by bank transfer—card facilities are unreliable at this elevation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during July and August; call ahead to confirm availability since it's a smaller 40-bed hut. Phone booking is the standard method—check rifugio.net or cai.it for contact details.
Staffed from June through September; peak season is July–August. Confirm current dates before planning, as staffing can shift based on weather and demand.
Start from Ponte Maira in the Maira Valley (approach via Acceglio) and follow the well-marked CAI path; the hike takes 2 hours 30 minutes with moderate elevation gain. The trailhead is accessible by car from the valley.
Sleeps 40 in dormitories; meals and basic shelter included with overnight stays. Expect standard Alpine hut amenities—bring a towel and toiletries, as shower access is typically limited.
Yes for fit families and experienced day-hikers; the 2.5-hour approach is moderate and manageable, and it's ideal as a base for day walks on surrounding ridges. Families with young children should assess fitness carefully.
Location
46.2364, 8.2571
HutLists Score
4.5
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI Club Alpino Italiano
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Website
- https://rifugiocrosta.info
Activities
Featured In
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