Trekking Gran Paradiso: Alta Via 2

Explore the stunning high-mountain landscapes of Italy’s Gran Paradiso National Park, a protected wilderness in the Aosta Valley where towering peaks, emerald valleys and glacial tarns define one of the Alps’ most scenic trekking regions. Running east-to-west from Chardonney to Courmayeur, the Alta Via 2 is a classic long-distance trek that threads through rugged alpine terrain, past mountain huts and panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the Italian Alps.

This trusted Cicerone trekking guidebook gives you everything you need to plan and walk the Alta Via 2 route, combining practical planning advice with clear, stage-by-stage descriptions of this scenic alpine trek. Featuring detailed route guidance and essential logistics information, it provides walkers with the knowledge to tackle the route’s challenging high-mountain terrain, including steep ascents, exposed ridges, and long daily distances, with confidence.

Covers the full 12-day Alta Via 2 trek (148 km) between Chardonney and Courmayeur, with daily stages described in detail, including distances, ascent, and terrain notes — making it ideal for a two-week walking holiday.
Practical planning chapters cover transport logistics, mountain hut network details, accommodation options and kit recommendations for trekking in the high Alps of the Aosta Valley
GPX files are available to download for use on GPS devices and smartphone apps, helping you navigate the varied alpine trails of Gran Paradiso throughout the route
Trek-specific Italian-English glossary, alpine flora and wildlife information are included to enrich your understanding of the natural and cultural environment you’ll encounter
The route is described from east to west, showcasing the beauty of Mont Blanc and rewarding trekkers with stunning views at the end of this challenging trek


From soaring ridgelines to peaceful alpine valleys, this guidebook provides everything you need to get the most out of your experience on the Alta Via 2. Embark on your next long-distance trekking adventure and explore one of Italy’s most iconic high-mountain routes.

Seasons

The trekking season corresponds to the opening period for the high altitude refuges, namely mid June through to late September. July is the best time to go for wildflowers while August and onwards usually guarantees snow-free passes.

Centres

Chardonney, Cogne, Valnontey, Eaux-Rousses, Valsavarenche, Rhêmes-Notre-Dame, Valgrisenche, La Thuile, Val Vény, Courmayeur

Difficulty

While not high on the difficulty scale, Alta Via 2 is strenuous, best suited to trekkers with some alpine experience. The majority of the route rates as average difficulty (Grade 2), while a handful of stages include short demanding sections with unstable terrain and exposure (Grade 3).

Must See

Italy’s historic Gran Paradiso National Park in the northwest, close to the border with France, has resident populations of magnificent ibex, chamois, marmots, golden eagles and lammergeier vultures, along with hosts of brilliant alpine wildflowers and glacial tarns such as Lago Lauson and Lac Djouan reflecting snowcapped peaks. The Gran Paradiso mountain (the only 4000+m peak wholly in Italy), Mont Blanc, Testa del Ruitor, Grivola.