4-day backpacking trekking in Aosta on the Glacial High Route

Select Date

Available Available Packages

Monday
13/07/2026

Thursday
16/07/2026

€720

6
Available

Transportation
From Milan or Milan airports (Malpensa, Linate or Bergamo)
Group Size
1 to 6 people
Maximum Altitude
3.083 m
Accomodation
Mountain huts (common rooms and bathrooms)
Fitness level
Moderately Fit (Intermediate Level)
Best season
Summer
Tour type
Trekking from hut to hut
Language
English, Italian
Elev. Gain / Loss
700 m / 700 m medium per day
Distance (Km)
10 km per day medium
Est walking time
4 - 5 hours per day
Minimum Age
14
Maximum Age
75

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Mountain Equipment

FAQs

Review

Best trekking tour in Aosta Valley

Experience backpacking Trekking in Aosta on the Glacial High Route

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day trekking in Aosta on the Glacial High Route through the Rhêmes and Valgrisenche valleys in the northwest Alps of Italy. This route, also known as Haute Route Glaciaire, winds between the glaciers of Haute Val d’Isère in France and the Aosta valleys in Italy. Trekupitaly will lead you along the Italian variant, guiding you through a spectacular circular trek amid breathtaking landscapes.

Best Trekking in Aosta Valley

Marvel at the towering peaks of Granta Parey, Gran Sassière, Ruitor, Gran Paradiso, Mont Blanc, and Grand Combin, all soaring between 3,000 and 4,000 meters. This moderately challenging trekking in Aosta offers the perfect adventure for those seeking high-altitude hikes without extreme difficulty. It’s an experience not to be missed!

For those with the necessary experience and stamina, an optional ascent to a 3,300-meter peak adds an extra challenge to the journey.

Itinerary of our backpacking trekking

Our Glacial high route trekking begins in Rhêmes-Notre-Dame, immediately leading you to the foot of the majestic Granta Parey within the Gran Paradiso National Park. The route ascends to a mountain pass at 3,083 meters, unveiling breathtaking views of the Gliarietta Glacier. If weather permits, experienced hikers can take on an optional climb to a 3,337-meter summit. The descent meanders through the Valgrisenche meadows, where ibex, marmots, and chamois roam. A cozy mountain hut will provide a comfortable overnight stay.

In the following days, the trekking in Aosta ventures into a remote, less-traveled valley, passing through alpine pastures and stunning landscapes. The final ascent to a mountain pass rewards trekkers with an unparalleled Mont Blanc view. The journey along the Glacial High Route Trekking concludes with a return to Rhêmes via a secluded and picturesque valley.

backpacking in Aosta Valley: Details

This Glacial high route trekking suits those in good health with a solid fitness level to manage the elevation gains. The well-marked trails present medium technical challenges, with short rocky sections near the mountain passes adding extra difficulty. The optional summit ascent remains reserved for experienced hikers.

Don’t miss the Glacial High Route trekking in Aosta Valley—an unforgettable journey through pristine nature and majestic peaks!

Why Choose Trekupitaly for trekking tour

Trekupitaly ensures small groups and tailor-made trekking experiences for a fully immersive adventure. Enjoy an extraordinary trekking experience in Aosta, just a short trip from Milan and Turin, as you explore glaciers, alpine landscapes, and breathtaking views!

Highlights

Trekking in Aosta on the Glacial Alta Via
Breathtaking Mountain Views
Climbing a trekking peak optionally
Private Transfer Included
Small Group Experience

DAY 0 :

Accommodation in Milan or Malpensa (on request)

If you need accommodation the night before our meeting, we can assist you in finding a place to stay.

Day 1 :

Transfer from Milan or Malpensa Airport to Rhêmes Notre Dame and trekking start

After driving from Milan (2 h 30 min) to Rhemes Notre Dame we begin our trekking. A scenic larch forest will be walked through to reach the valley’s head. A pleasant path along the Dora valley will lead to the first mountain hut with glacier views.

Technical Data: Elevation gain: 650 m ↑, 50 m ↓ – Distance: 10 km – Walking time: 3h 30min
Logistics: Half-board accommodation in a mountain hut, shared rooms, and common bathroom.

Day 2 :

Ascent toward Granta Parey and Bassac pass at 3080 m

A stunning glacial plain with Lake Goletta will be reached before a steady climb to a 3,080-meter pass overlooking the Gliarietta Glacier. The Becca La Traversiere summit (3,337m) is an optional climb. The descent will include rocky sections before reaching a comfortable hut for our second night in the mountains.

Technical Data: Elevation gain: 830 m ↑, 830 m ↓ – Distance: 11.5 km – Walking time: 5h
Logistics: Half-board accommodation in a mountain hut, shared rooms, and common bathroom.

Day 3 :

Traversing under the Grande Rousse

A traverse along the northwestern slopes of Truc Blanc (3.400 m) will be made before reaching a remote alpine basin with our next mountain hut. We are in a cosy and wild pasture at 2.300 m of altitude among cows and sheeps. A beautiful sunset could be admired from this pasture.

Technical Data: Elevation gain: 660 m ↑, 600 m ↓ – Distance: 10 km – Walking time: 4h
Logistics: Half-board accommodation in a mountain hut, shared rooms, and common bathroom.

Day 4 :

Final ascent and last Mont Blanc view

A magnificent valley with ancient glacier remnants and pastures will be crossed. A final mountain pass will be climbed, offering a breathtaking Mont Blanc view trekking experience. The descent will include a steep section followed by a rocky passage with a chain-assisted crossing. This is the only very challenging part of the itinerary. The guide will assist you. The trail will then become easier before reaching Rhêmes Valley, where the trek will end. Return to Milan or Malpensa with a private transfer included.

Technical Data: Elevation gain: 480 m ↑, 1,000 m ↓ – Distance: 7 km – Walking time: 4h
Logistics: Return to Milan or Malpensa by private transfer included.

Expand all

How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

This trek requires a medium-high physical effort, it is necessary to be fit and not sedentary. Practicing aerobic sports (running, cycling, swimming) is the best way to be ready for the trek. If you do not play sports normally, it is suitable to do a little training at least six months before beginning this trek with running and cycling twice a week combining some squats and lunges (10 squats + 20 lunges) to tone up your muscles. You should go regularly hiking in your country with a 700 m minimun elevation gain. This physical training before trekking is mandatory.
If you need suggestion about training, we are at your disposal!

How long do we walk every day?

On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. You should consider that the estimated walking time don’t consider stops or lunch break. During the day we will have some break to eat and drink on the road.

What about bathroom hot shower facilities?

In mountain huts, bathroom is always shared with all guests. Showers are usually available under extra payment. Sometime there is not hot water

What about beds and linings?

In mountain huts you will find beds with mattress, wool blanket, bed pillow. You need to bring your own sleeping bag sheet. If you don’t have it you can buy disposable sleeping bag sheet in refuge.

What does Elevation Gain mean?

This refers to the vertical distance you walk each day of trekking. If you don’t have clear the distance, we can roughly compare: 100 m of elevation gain can correspond to approximately 25 floors of stairs in a building. Don’t be scared by these numbers, the paths, except for a few, are never steep and constant like the stairs of a building. You should consider that this elevation is spread in the distance and time we will walk. (usually during one day)

Examples:
600 m elev. gain in 10 Km spread in one day is not a steep path and unless you are lazy you can manage it!
instead
1.000 m elev. gain in 4 – 5 Km is very steep and you need to be fit

4-day backpacking trekking in Aosta on the Glacial High Route

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Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Mountain Equipment

FAQs

Review

Best trekking tour in Aosta Valley