SI E48N

A medium-length stage with significant elevation gain leads the Sentiero Italia towards the Anzasca Valley, from the Province of Vercelli to the Province of Verbano Cusio Ossola. From the Rifugio Pastore, the trail crosses the Sesia River and begins a steep ascent that weaves through a series of hairpin turns, passing several alpine pastures along the south-facing slopes. After a lengthy contour traverse at around 2000 meters, the ascent resumes until reaching the Colle del Turlo at 2738 meters above sea level. The descent into Valle Quarazza begins, in the Municipality of Macugnaga, where halfway down is the Bivacco Emiliano Lanti al Ratuligher (from the Walser "Meadow designated for resting livestock surrounded by rhododendrons") dedicated to the last shepherd of the valley. The entire route unfolds along the splendid mule track built by the legendary Battaglio Intra of the Regiemento Alpini of the Royal Italian Army.