Ovarda Lakes Ring

Near the parking lot after the chapel, trail 128A begins in the woods. Shortly after the Frontera huts take the dirt road uphill to a hairpin turn, just before Alpe Grosso, where you take the path on the right (small CAI notice board present). After a short while turn right (small plaque on a stone, trail 127) to ford the stream over stones (be careful!) and turn right. You then climb through meadows and rhododendrons to the plateau of Pian del Gioco (1995 m). The trail continues, still in the same direction, passing some small valleys. When you reach a fork (you will meet it at the end of the loop) continue straight on with signs for Lago Piccolo. Here there is an exposed passage that can be overcome with the help of two chains (be careful!!). You then arrive in the vicinity of Small Lake.

Continuing on the grassy ridge you reach a large grassy area to the right of which is Lake Bleu. From the lake turn sharply to the left and cross the large meadow pointing toward the obvious sign near the Big Lake. At this point you can choose to close the loop without the upper part or continue.

Continue westward entering the rocky basin, which you must ascend to its natural collar. As soon as you pass the ridge you keep right uphill on a path that is not obvious, but after a short while the red/white markers return. A short traverse on scree follows before reaching the two small lakes indicated on maps as "the Three Small Lakes."

You still climb among rocks to reach the lake from the Red Rocks (sometimes dry in midsummer). For those who want, a trail goes up beside the pond towards the obvious Mazzucchini Pass (2457 m) . Returning to the pond, continue eastward on a plateau of rocks and then descend to Long Lake (2302 m).

Continue down the valley, diagonally down the steepest part to the right to reach Lake Grande.

Skirt Lake Grande on the small rocks until you cross the stream coming out of the lake. Go up the ridge (path not very evident) and on scree follow path 127, which later descends sharply to the fork encountered on the way up. From here retrace the outward route.

Tall shoes with non-slip soles, wind/rain cover, a warm layer, water and food supply, first aid, hat and sunglasses are recommended.

There are no footholds and no water: leave with adequate supplies.

In case of fog the route in the upper part stands out with difficulty, consider well whether to continue or not.

In many parts of the route there is no cell phone network coverage.

From the plain, past Germagnano, turn left into the Viù valley. Proceed as far as Lemie. Shortly after the main town, turn right onto a small road marked Fontana - Inversigni. Proceed on the road that becomes paved until you reach the parking lot just past the chapel of San Bartolomeo (you cannot proceed further).

Parking lot after St. Bartholomew's chapel

For tourist information about the valleys: Consorzio Operatori Turistici Valli di Lanzo Tourist Operators Consortium - www.turismovallidilanzo.it

The road leading to the starting point becomes unpaved in the last few kilometers and with short stretches of considerable slope: it can be hiked with a hatchback, as long as it is not too low.

Before embarking on any hike, it is advisable to consult weather reports or ask for information at local Tourism Offices.

It is a good idea not to undertake a hike alone; always notify your destination.

Do not throw garbage into the environment but take it with you picking up any garbage left by others.

The hiking times given are approximate and may vary depending on weather conditions and your own ability.

Leave early in the morning to avoid the mists that often form in the afternoon in summer.