S.E.L. Rocca Locatelli Refuge: from Laorca
3 June 2025
Resegone Path 10: A hike between Wild Nature and Alpine History
The Resegone is an undisputed symbol for Lecco and for all mountain lovers. Its saw-like shape, which seems to cut the horizon, is so characteristic that one does not even need to look at a map to recognise it. Along with its fame, the Resegone carries with it a rich historical legacy, the one that Alessandro Manzoni immortalised in his The Betrothed. The mountain thus becomes part of a broader narrative, a landmark that marks not only the skyline of Lecco, but also Italian culture and literature.
If in previous articles we have explored various paths leading to its summit, today I will guide you along a route that, while requiring a good level of preparation, will allow you to enjoy a unique experience: Path 10, which ascends the evocative and challenging Canalone Bobbio, a stretch that is not only a physical escalation, but also a journey into the wildest and most unspoilt beauty of the Lombardy Pre-Alps.
Path 10, also known as “Sentiero Attrezzato Carlo Villa”, is a route that leaves no room for distraction. It is a path equipped with chains and fixed ropes, which requires constant attention and good mountain experience. Although it is not among the longest, its technical nature and the presence of exposed passages make it suitable only for those with good training and a solid knowledge of light climbing techniques.
Starting from the Bocchetta d'Erna, at an altitude of 1,291 metres, the itinerary covers an altitude difference of 584 metres and leads to the summit of the Resegone, at 1,875 metres, in about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Along the route, the stony terrain and exposed rocks require great care. Although the path is not very well-trodden, it is nevertheless well signposted and allows you to tackle the mountain with relative safety, as long as you exercise caution.
Our hike begins with an ascent to the Piani d'Erna, which can be easily reached by cable car from Lecco to Bocchetta d'Erna. This first section of the trail, which is wide and gently sloping, winds through meadows and woods, allowing you to acclimatise to the beauty of the surrounding landscape. After an initial flat section, the path begins to narrow and the terrain becomes more uneven. The presence of rocky passages requires the use of hands in some places, with a chain proving particularly useful in an exposed section.
On reaching Canalone Bobbio, the trail changes dramatically. Here, the climb becomes steep and demanding. The rocks that form the gully are slippery and uneven, and the use of chains becomes essential to tackle the most technical part of the route. It is a stretch that can be tiring and requires a certain dexterity in moving between the stones and maintaining a sure footing.
Depending on your speed and experience, it takes about 10-15 minutes to ascend the narrowest part of the gully. It is in this section that particular care must be taken: not only for your own safety, but also for the safety of other hikers and animals that may be along the way. Loose rocks, perhaps caused by a hiker passing further up or even a chamois, are a risk that should not be underestimated.
Once over the gully, the path climbs the stony slope until it reaches the Saddle of Bobbio, at 1,740 metres. Here, a pause for refreshment is almost a must. The view from the saddle is priceless, with a panorama that sweeps from the city of Lecco to Lake Como and the surrounding peaks. A perfect spot to enjoy the mountain tranquillity before tackling the last part of the walk.
From the Selletta di Bobbio, the trail continues along the back of the Resegone, with spectacular views of the Imagna Valley and Morterone. The final part of the itinerary is no less demanding: amidst ups and downs, exposed passages and rocky sections, path 10 becomes more technical. Having passed the Dente del Resegone, the last difficulties are faced along the ridge that leads to the summit. The ever-widening panorama finally reveals the summit cross of Punta Cermenati, marking the destination.
The arrival at the summit is an extraordinary reward. The 360-degree view is among the most spectacular in the Lombardy Alps. Beneath your feet, the city of Lecco, the lake and the plain stretch out like a carpet that fades into the horizon. In the distance, Monte Rosa, Grignone and Legnone complete the alpine picture, and on a clear day you can enjoy visibility all the way to the snow-capped peak of Monte Rosa and beyond.
The descent from Resegone is via the simplest path 1, which descends to Lecco. Alternatively, you can opt for the trail 5 which leads to the Piani d'Erna, from where it is possible to take the cable car back down to the valley. Although the descent does not present any particular technical difficulties, it is always advisable to tackle it with due caution, especially if you descend in the afternoon, when the terrain may be more slippery.
The path 10 from Canalone Bobbio is a route that does not leave you indifferent: it is a demanding experience that challenges you physically and mentally, but which repays you every step of the way with breathtaking views and direct contact with the Resegone wilderness. If you are ready to face a challenge of medium difficulty, with a good level of preparation, this hike is a unique opportunity to explore one of the most spectacular slopes of the Lecco mountains.
Other hikes in the Resegone group:
Resegone from Lecco
Resegone from Morterone
Bobbio Canal
Piani d'Erna from the Camel Pass
Capanna Alpinisti Monzesi from Lecco
Cresta della Giumenta
Magnodeno from Lecco
Monte Due Mani from Morterone
Mount Two Hands from Ballabio
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