Bivacco Alpe di Lierna M.1250

Bivacco Alpe di Lierna sits at 1,250m on the Italian side of the Lario region, a few hours' walk above the eastern shore of Lake Como. Approach from Lierna village via the Sentiero dei Monti (Trail 1), which climbs steadily through chestnut and beech forest. The walk takes 3–4 hours depending on fitness and starts at lake level around 200m. This is a serious Alpine approach: the trail is well-marked but steep in sections, and you'll gain 1,050m of elevation. Most parties aim to reach the bivacco by late afternoon to secure shelter before dark.

The bivacco is a small emergency shelter managed as a basic refuge, not a staffed hut. It sleeps 4 people on fixed beds with mattresses. Expect minimal facilities: there's no warden, no meals, no running water. You must bring all food, fuel, and water from below. The bivacco sits on open pasture with views toward the Bergamasque Alps and back down to Como. It serves climbers and walkers as a staging point for higher peaks and ridge traverses in the surrounding range. The shelter is open year-round, though access becomes difficult in heavy snow.

Book through the Lierna comune (municipal office) or the Lecco branch of the Italian Alpine Club (CAI Lecco). Capacity is tight, so confirm availability before your walk. July and August see the most traffic. Arrive with all supplies: don't rely on resupply options at the hut or villages below.