Cabin Barone

Capanna Barone stands at 2,172m on the border between Ticino and Uri, accessible from two main valleys. From the south, approach via Ritom lake and the Passo della Novena (2,312m)—a 4-hour hike from Ambri-Piotta railway station. From the north, reach the hut in 3.5 hours from Göschenen via the Gotthard Pass region. Both routes are well-marked and suit experienced hikers. The hut makes a natural base for exploring the steep granite peaks around it or as a stage on longer traverse routes across the central Alps.
The hut has 35 beds split across multiple rooms and provides showers—a rarity at this elevation. The SAC-affiliated management serves hot meals and offers packed lunches. Summer season runs June through September, with the hut sometimes open for shorter periods in shoulder months depending on snow conditions and staffing. Winter use requires prior arrangement. Most visitors come for day-summit attempts on nearby peaks or multi-day crossing routes that demand mountaineering skills rather than pure hiking.
Book 8 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. Contact the hut directly by phone or email through the SAC hut database. Mid-week visits in June and September face less pressure. The Ritom approach becomes unreliable before late May due to snow and high water from snowmelt.