Refuge Ghiacciaio dei Forni

3.6

Rifugio Ghiacciaio dei Forni

2,178m Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy Write a review
Demanding

About

Rifugio Ghiacciaio dei Forni sits at 2,178m on the edge of the Forni Glacier in the Ortler massif. Reach it from Passo del Tonale (1,883m) via the Viozzo Gorge approach, a steep 2.5-hour climb through mixed terrain. The final section crosses boulder fields and moraine. Most parties approach from the south and the trail is well marked but exposed in places. Allow extra time if the glacier crossing is necessary at your season.

The rifugio accommodates 70 guests in mixed dormitories and a few doubles. Meals are served family-style; book dinner ahead. The kitchen produces solid mountain fare focused on pasta and local Trentino specialities. Water comes from the glacier melt. Showers are available. The hut operates June to September, weather permitting. Winter access is extremely difficult and the hut may close without warning if glacier conditions deteriorate.

This is a CAI-managed hut. Book direct through the hut by phone or email, or check rifugi.net. July and August fill 2–3 months ahead. June and September offer better availability but variable weather. Expect crowding on summer weekends. The hut is popular with skiers and climbers heading to Punta San Matteo (3,678m) or traversing the Ortler range. Arrive with realistic fitness expectations—the altitude gain is sustained and the final terrain is alpine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends, longer during July-August peak season. Contact them directly or use rifugio.net and cai.it for availability.
Typically open June through September, depending on glacier and snow conditions. Call ahead to confirm staffing in shoulder months.
From Passo del Tonale (1,883m), climb 2.5 hours via the Viozzo Gorge—steep mixed terrain with boulder fields and moraine in the final section. The trail is marked but exposed in places.
70 beds in mixed dorms and a few doubles, plus meals service. Expect basic amenities; showers may be limited or have hot water on schedule.
No—the steep approach, exposed sections, and possible glacier crossing require solid mountain experience and fitness. Better for experienced hikers comfortable with Alpine terrain.

Location

46.4202, 10.5549
Directions OpenStreetMap

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Reservation recommended.

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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.

We can't watch this hut's availability — it books direct. Give us your arrival date and we'll email you when it's time to get in touch, with the hut's phone and email.

Independent of the hut and its alpine club. We never book or hold beds — the reminder just tells you when to get in touch, with the hut's own contact details.

HutLists Score

3.6
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Quick Facts

Managing club
SAT

Facilities

Breakfast Half board Meals served Drinking water

Activities

Hiking Mountaineering

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