Cabane les Ecoulaies
1.4
2,575m
Valle d'Aosta, Italy
About
Cabane les Ecoulaies sits at 2,575m in the Gran Paradiso massif, accessed from the Valsavarenche valley. The standard approach follows the valley floor for 7km, then climbs steeply through larch forest for another 3 hours to the hut. Most parties start from Pont (1,730m) and allow 5–6 hours total. A mule track eases the gradient but still demands solid fitness. The location works as a base for the Gran Paradiso summit (4,061m, 4 hours ascent) or as a waypoint on longer traverses through the Graian Alps.
The hut is small and simple, run by the Gran Paradiso National Park authority. It has around 20 beds in basic dormitories and serves meals only to guests who book half board in advance. Water comes from a spring; there is no shower. The hut operates June through September, closed in winter. Conditions are alpine—expect wind, cold nights, and rapid weather changes even in summer. The hut fills quickly during July and August, especially around weekends.
Book directly by telephone (+39 0165 95944) or email (contact details via the Gran Paradiso National Park website). Reserve your bed and meal slot at the same time; turning up without booking risks finding it full. July and August require booking 2–3 weeks ahead. June and September are quieter but weather is less stable. Bring a sleeping bag and mat—quality of bedding varies.
The hut is small and simple, run by the Gran Paradiso National Park authority. It has around 20 beds in basic dormitories and serves meals only to guests who book half board in advance. Water comes from a spring; there is no shower. The hut operates June through September, closed in winter. Conditions are alpine—expect wind, cold nights, and rapid weather changes even in summer. The hut fills quickly during July and August, especially around weekends.
Book directly by telephone (+39 0165 95944) or email (contact details via the Gran Paradiso National Park website). Reserve your bed and meal slot at the same time; turning up without booking risks finding it full. July and August require booking 2–3 weeks ahead. June and September are quieter but weather is less stable. Bring a sleeping bag and mat—quality of bedding varies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 weeks ahead for weekends and July–August; weekdays in shoulder season (June, September) can often be arranged with shorter notice. Contact the hut directly or check rifugio listings through CAI affiliates for availability.
Typically open June through September; exact dates depend on snow conditions and staffing. Confirm opening dates before traveling, as high-elevation huts in Gran Paradiso can close early in poor weather.
Start from Pont (1,730m) in Valsavarenche valley; follow 7km of valley track then 3 hours of steep climbing through larch forest—5–6 hours total, or longer if unacclimatized. A mule track reduces steepness but fitness is essential at this elevation.
Expect basic mountain hut standards: dormitory beds, communal meals (dinner and breakfast), and running water; showers are typically cold or unavailable at 2,575m. Check what's included with your booking—water and heating can be limited in shoulder season.
Not ideal for beginners: the 5–6 hour approach with 850m elevation gain demands solid hill fitness, and altitude (2,575m) affects acclimatization. It suits experienced hikers planning Gran Paradiso or multi-day traverses, not casual day-walkers or young children.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website
- https://www.lespyramides.ch/cabane