Trekking in Carona: the best trails among alpine lakes and mountain huts in the Orobie

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If you’re looking for the best trekking routes in Carona, you’re in the right place. This small village in Val Brembana, in the province of Bergamo, is one of the most popular starting points for hiking in the Orobie Alps.

Here you’ll find trails for everyone: from easy walks among waterfalls and historic villages to more challenging treks between mountain huts and alpine lakes.

In this guide, you’ll discover the most beautiful routes starting from Carona, along with practical tips and ideas to help you plan your hike.


Why choose Carona for trekking

Carona is a perfect base for those who love hiking in the mountains. The reasons are simple:

  • direct access to numerous CAI trails
  • a wide variety of landscapes (lakes, valleys, waterfalls)
  • routes suitable for all levels
  • easily reachable mountain huts

In addition, many routes connect to the famous Sentiero delle Orobie, one of the most spectacular trekking routes in Lombardy.


The best trekking routes from Carona

Photographic Walk

  • Difficulty: easy
  • Distance: 2.31 km
  • Elevation gain: 33 m

This route crosses some of the most scenic corners of the village and is enriched with panels showing old photographs of Carona and its inhabitants. The walk offers a journey into the past, revealing the simple and hard life of the mountains.

A Walk Through Time

  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Distance: 2.01 km
  • Elevation gain: 137 m

A loop trail along an ancient path leading to potato fields, with information panels and rest areas that tell the story of Carona’s nature and traditions through the voices of local elders.

Pagliari Loop Trail

  • Difficulty: easy to moderate
  • Distance: 3.07 km
  • Elevation gain: 186 m

A loop route leading to Pagliari, an ancient stone village, passing through forest and along the Brembo river, with the chance to observe flowers and medicinal herbs.

Nature Trail

  • Difficulty: easy to moderate
  • Distance: 1 km
  • Elevation gain: 83 m

A forest trail that allows you to explore the natural environment of the Orobie, including plant species and large anthills, leading to the “Osservatorio,” an old panoramic mountain hut overlooking Carona.

Carona Bassa

  • Difficulty: easy
  • Distance: 900 m
  • Elevation gain: 25 m

A loop route towards the old hamlet of Carona Bassa, along cobbled paths and forest, rich in flowers and herbs used in cooking and for their healing properties.


Rifugio Laghi Gemelli: the most iconic trek

The route to Rifugio Laghi Gemelli is probably the most famous hike in Carona.

  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Duration: about 3 hours
  • Elevation gain: 900 m

The trail takes you through a spectacular alpine environment, passing several lakes such as Lago Marcio and Lago Colombo. The final destination is a mountain hut surrounded by peaks, perfect for a scenic break.

👉 Ideal if you’re looking for a complete and highly scenic trek.


Rifugio Calvi: views and high mountains

Another classic route is the hike to Rifugio Fratelli Calvi.

  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Duration: about 3 hours

The trail crosses one of the most beautiful glacial basins in the Orobie. Once you arrive, you can relax at the hut or continue towards more challenging routes.

👉 Perfect for those who want to experience the true atmosphere of high mountains.


Passo Publino: quieter and more wild

If you prefer a more peaceful route, the trail to Passo Publino is a great alternative.

  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Duration: about 2h30 – 3h

Here you’ll find fewer people and wide open views over the Orobie. It’s the ideal route for those seeking silence and nature.

👉 Recommended for hikers who want to avoid crowded trails.


Passo Croce (via Carisole): easy and scenic trekking

This route is perfect if you’re looking for a simpler hike.

  • Difficulty: easy to moderate
  • Duration: about 2h30

The trail is well marked and offers beautiful views along the entire route, without any technical difficulties.


Waterfalls Trail and the village of Pagliari

For a relaxing walk, the Waterfalls Trail is one of the best options.

  • Difficulty: easy
  • Duration: 1 hour

It follows the Brembo river and leads to the charming village of Pagliari, with water, small bridges, and picturesque views.

👉 Ideal for families and relaxed days.


Multi-day trekking: huts and crossings

Carona is also a strategic starting point for longer treks in the Orobie. Options include:

  • crossing from Rifugio Calvi to Laghi Gemelli
  • connections to Rifugio Brunone
  • sections of the Sentiero delle Orobie

These routes are perfect if you want to plan a multi-day experience among mountain huts and high alpine landscapes.


Useful tips for trekking in Carona

  • wear proper hiking shoes
  • always check the weather
  • bring water and snacks
  • check hiking times
  • start early, especially in summer

Many trails are classified as hiking routes (E): not technical, but still physically demanding.


FAQ

What are the best treks in Carona?
Rifugio Laghi Gemelli, Rifugio Calvi, Passo Publino, and the Waterfalls Trail.

Are the trails in Carona suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are easy routes like the Waterfalls Trail, as well as more challenging ones for experienced hikers.

Do you need experience to go trekking in Carona?
It depends on the route: many trails are accessible, but a good level of physical fitness is always required.

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