Demanding
About
Bivacco Col dei Gai sits at 1,187m on the Col dei Gai pass in the Veneto Alps, between the Astico and Brenta valleys. Reach it from the south via Passo Vezzena (2,394m) and a 2.5-hour descent, or from the north in 3 hours from Rifugio Ghedina. The approach is straightforward hiking on marked paths—no technical climbing required.
This is a basic bivouac hut with space for around 8–12 people in an unheated dormitory. There's no guardian or meals provided. Water is available from a nearby spring. The hut works as an emergency shelter and overnight stop for through-hikers crossing between valleys; bring your own sleeping bag and food. The stone structure dates from the mid-20th century and remains functional but spartan.
Open year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions. No booking system exists. Arrive early if planning to stay overnight, as space fills quickly on weekends during summer months. The hut is maintained by local Alpine clubs (CAI Astico and CAI Brenta sections). Respect the shelter's basic nature—pack out all waste and close the door against weather.
This is a basic bivouac hut with space for around 8–12 people in an unheated dormitory. There's no guardian or meals provided. Water is available from a nearby spring. The hut works as an emergency shelter and overnight stop for through-hikers crossing between valleys; bring your own sleeping bag and food. The stone structure dates from the mid-20th century and remains functional but spartan.
Open year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions. No booking system exists. Arrive early if planning to stay overnight, as space fills quickly on weekends during summer months. The hut is maintained by local Alpine clubs (CAI Astico and CAI Brenta sections). Respect the shelter's basic nature—pack out all waste and close the door against weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
No booking is needed—bivaccos operate on a first-come, first-served basis and are free to use. Check rifugio.net or cai.it for any updates on condition, but assume it's always open unless damage is reported.
It's a staffed bivouac that operates year-round, though snow and weather will limit safe access to late spring through early autumn; there is no guardian, so it's entirely self-service.
From the south via Passo Vezzena (2,394m) it's a 2.5-hour descent; from the north it's a 3-hour hike from Rifugio Ghedina. Both routes follow marked CAI paths with no scrambling.
Expect an unheated dormitory sleeping 8–12 people, no meals or guardian, and water from a nearby spring; bring a sleeping bag, mat, stove, and all food.
It's fine for fit hikers and mountaineers with hill-walking experience, but not ideal for families or novices—the unheated dorm, no services, and self-reliance required demand mountain competence and gear.
Location
46.0139, 12.1888
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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
1.2
Overall
Facilities
Access
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Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Total
- 10
- Emergency
- 10
Activities
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