Trekking Monte Alto (1,901 m) from Camporaghena: ascent to the summit
Direct ascent to the highest peak of the Groppi. 3 hours of climbing, 1,050 metres of ascent, EE trail with exposed sections. For experienced hikers. Start from Camporaghena.
What it is and why do it
Monte Alto (1,901 m) is the highest peak of the Groppi di Camporaghena and the most sought-after destination for those climbing from the village. This is the direct ascent: 3 hours of walking, 1,050 metres of ascent, EE trail with exposed passages and a track that is barely visible in places.
Compared to the full Groppi loop (8 hours), this is a shorter but still demanding option. You can climb to Monte Alto and return by the same trail, or continue on the full loop if you feel up to it.
The panorama from the summit stretches from the Apuan Alps to the Ligurian Sea, from the Parma Apennines to the Alps.
What to expect
- Start from Camporaghena, no car needed
- 3 hours of ascent (one way only)
- 1,050 metres of ascent
- EE trail (Experienced Hikers)
- Exposed sections, track barely visible in places among the ferns
- 360° view from the summit
- Wild environment within the National Park
Practical information
- Start: entrance to the village of Camporaghena (845 m)
- Arrival: Monte Alto (1,901 m)
- Parking: free at the village entrance
- Duration: 3 hours ascent; 5–6 hours return
- Elevation gain: +1,050 m
- Maximum altitude: 1,901 m
- Difficulty: EE (Experienced Hikers)
- Waymarking: CAI trail 104. Track barely visible in places among the ferns. Bring a GPS track
- Water: fountain at the exit from Camporaghena. No water points along the trail. Bring at least 2 litres per person
- Mountain huts: none on the route
- Dogs: not verified — not recommended due to exposed sections
- Cost: free
- Season: June–September. Not recommended October–May (snow, ice)
- What to bring: trekking boots, at least 2 litres of water, packed lunch, windproof jacket, charged phone, GPS track
- Trail conditions: check with CAI Fivizzano before setting off. Last checked: November 2026
Who it's for and who it's not
This trek is for you if:
- You have mountain experience and have done EE trails
- You want to reach the highest peak without the full 8-hour loop
- You have a sure foot on exposed terrain
- You have navigation experience (trail barely visible in some sections)
This trek is NOT for you if:
- You're a beginner
- You suffer from vertigo
- You have no experience with poorly marked trails
- The weather is uncertain or there's fog