The best waterfall hikes and walks around Lake Verney
4.5
(2016)
16,286
hikers
12
hikes
Waterfall hiking trails around Lake Verney are set within the Aosta Valley, an alpine region characterized by mountainous backdrops and extensive woodlands. The area features the largest natural alpine lake in the Aosta Valley, situated at 2,088 meters above sea level, with glacial origins shaping its varied terrain. Rocky streams and crags are common, alongside hygrophilous vegetation and morainic deposits. The landscape includes views of the Mont Blanc massif and surrounding peaks like Bec des Rousses.
Best waterfall hiking trails around Lake Verney
- The most popular waterfall hiking route is Cascate del Rutor waterfall trail from La Joux, a difficult 9.5 miles (15.3 km) trail that takes 5 hours 53 minutes to complete. This route features significant elevation gain through alpine landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is On the Centocinquantenario Trail - From La Joux to the third Rutor Waterfall, a moderate 3.8 miles (6.1 km) path. This trail offers a direct approach to one of the region's prominent waterfalls.
- Local hikers also love the Cascate del Rutor Trail to Rifugio Deffeyes, a 7.6 miles (12.2 km) trail leading through varied alpine terrain, often completed in about 5 hours 59 minutes.
- Hiking around Lake Verney is defined by alpine lakes, mountainous backdrops, and extensive woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate paths to challenging ascents.
- The routes in Lake Verney are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2000 reviews. More than 16,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Lake Verney's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.8
(137)
905
hikers
18.7km
07:53
1,080m
1,080m
Embark on the Alta Via 2 of Aosta Valley: Stage 3, a difficult 11.6-mile (18.7 km) hike that challenges you with a significant 3532-foot (1077 metres) elevation gain. This demanding route typically takes around 7 hours and 52 minutes to complete, immersing you in the pristine nature of the Aosta Valley. You will traverse diverse landscapes, from larch forests and expansive alpine meadows to rugged rocky outcrops and glacial cirques, offering a true high-alpine experience.
Planning your visit requires preparation, as this is a demanding route best suited for trekkers with alpine experience. Be ready for considerable cumulative elevation gain and long climbs, often involving deep valley descents followed by ascents to the next pass. While the trail avoids technical climbing, strong physical fitness is essential to comfortably manage the daily challenges of this trek.
This stage of the Alta Via 2 takes you deep into Gran Paradiso National Park, where you can look for alpine flora and fauna such as chamois and golden eagles. As you near Lillaz towards the end of the stage, you might catch your first distant view of Mont Blanc, a notable landmark. The route is part of a longer, challenging trek, making this stage a key segment for those exploring the Aosta Valley's high-alpine environment.
4.8
(134)
898
hikers
15.3km
05:53
740m
740m
Embark on a difficult hike to the Cascate del Rutor, Italy's largest waterfalls, covering 9.5 miles (15.3 km) with a significant 2418 feet (737 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging route typically takes around 5 hours and 52 minutes to complete. You will wind through a shady forest on a stone path, crossing wooden platforms and small bridges, before reaching the powerful cascades with their impressive blue and green pools.
To plan your visit, you can find parking available at the charming hamlet of La Joux, where the trail begins. The path is clearly marked with red and white CAI signs, guiding you towards Rifugio Deffeyes. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots, as sections of the trail are rocky and can be wet, especially near the waterfalls.
This trail uniquely combines parts of the Sentiero Italia and Alta Via 2, leading you to waterfalls fed by the Rutor glacier. The cascades feature three major steps, plunging a total height of 700 metres, creating one of the most powerful natural displays in the Alps. From viewpoints along the way, you can admire the wild nature and the expansive views of the La Thuile valley.
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4.9
(88)
474
hikers
12.6km
06:06
900m
900m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.9
(75)
631
hikers
12.2km
05:59
910m
910m
Alpine trail past three thundering waterfalls totaling 700 meters through Valle d'Aosta's forests.
4.7
(80)
362
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
In the square in front of the main entrance of the Villaret tunnel there are the technical rooms serving the mining activity. The first building to the left of the tunnel entrance housed the compressors that allowed the miners to use compressed air hammers and forced ventilation, as well as the rooms for converting electrical energy. In the low and long building to the right of the tunnel there were: • the lamp factory, for supplying the carbide lamps to be used in the tunnel and for their maintenance, • the forge for working the tools and especially the tips of the pneumatic hammers, • the carpentry shop for treating the wood to be used to support the tunnels. In the square other buildings were subsequently built, used as warehouses and garages as well as workshops for the maintenance of the locomotives. In more recent times one of them was transformed into a chapel serving the Father Kolbe holiday home. The yard was crossed by tracks for the transit of the trains that carried the waste material outside, which was then deposited on the slope towards the Dora. Tracks also arrived from the opposite side of the slope, from the Preylet tunnel. The wagons loaded with anthracite passed the small bridge over the Dora and the road, then entered the tunnel to reach, via the descent, the loading station in the tunnel of the train headed for Arpy. After 1959 the tracks carried the coal wagons to the washery located to the west where the anthracite treatment previously carried out in Morgex took place.
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Starting point for many excursions, including the one to the Rutor Waterfalls. Large free parking.
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Second Rutor waterfall, indescribable power! Beautiful!
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This beautiful path surrounded by nature offers breathtaking scenery.
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Very pretty hamlet from where the path to the waterfalls starts
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As you go up along the route, I recommend stopping every now and then to observe the wonderful panorama that appears before us
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The second waterfall you come across along the way is perhaps the one a little more "hidden" of the three but certainly no less spectacular!
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On the return path there are various spots on the waterfalls that show them in their grandeur
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are there around Lake Verney?
There are 12 dedicated waterfall hiking trails around Lake Verney, offering a range of experiences from moderate paths to challenging ascents. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.
What are the difficulty levels of waterfall hikes around Lake Verney?
The waterfall hikes around Lake Verney are predominantly challenging, with 11 out of 12 routes classified as difficult. There is one moderate trail available, which might be suitable for those looking for a less strenuous option.
Are there any family-friendly waterfall hikes near Lake Verney?
While most waterfall trails around Lake Verney are difficult, there is one moderate route that could be considered for families looking for a less strenuous option. The trail On the Centocinquantenario Trail - From La Joux to the third Rutor Waterfall is 3.8 miles (6.1 km) long and offers a direct approach to one of the prominent waterfalls.
Can I bring my dog on waterfall trails near Lake Verney?
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in the Aosta Valley, but it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock. Given the challenging nature of most trails, ensure your dog is fit for alpine conditions.
What natural features and attractions can I see on these waterfall hikes?
Beyond the impressive waterfalls, the trails offer stunning alpine landscapes. You'll encounter the emerald-green waters of Lake Verney, glacial formations, and extensive woodlands. Many routes provide panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif, Bec des Rousses, and Mount Chaz Dura. You might also spot unique hygrophilous vegetation and morainic deposits.
Are there any circular waterfall walks around Lake Verney?
Yes, for those who prefer loop trails, the region offers options like the Rutor Grand Tour, a difficult 12.6 km hike with significant elevation gain. Another option mentioned in the region research is the Lac du Verney – Lac Verney Supérieur loop from Col du Petit-Saint-Bernard.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls around Lake Verney?
The best time to visit the waterfalls around Lake Verney is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (June to September). During this period, the snowmelt feeds the waterfalls, making them particularly powerful, and the trails are generally clear of snow, offering pleasant hiking conditions.
Where can I park for waterfall hikes near Lake Verney?
Specific parking information for each trailhead is usually available on the individual route pages. For trails like the Cascate del Rutor waterfall trail from La Joux, parking is typically found near the starting points in villages or designated areas.
Are there any amenities like cafes or accommodation near the waterfall trails?
The region around Lake Verney, particularly near the Little St. Bernard Pass and villages like La Thuile, offers various amenities. You can find cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options to support your hiking trip. Some longer trails, like the Cascate del Rutor Trail to Rifugio Deffeyes, lead to mountain huts (rifugios) where you can find refreshments or even overnight stays.
Do I need permits for hiking waterfall trails around Lake Verney?
Generally, permits are not required for day hiking on established trails around Lake Verney. However, it's always good practice to check local regulations, especially if you plan to venture into protected areas or stay overnight in designated zones.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the waterfall hikes in Lake Verney?
The waterfall hikes around Lake Verney are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning alpine scenery, the powerful waterfalls, and the diverse terrain that includes glacial lakes and panoramic mountain views, often highlighting the sense of adventure on the more challenging routes.
How long do the waterfall trails typically take to complete?
The duration of waterfall trails varies significantly based on their difficulty and length. For example, the moderate Centocinquantenario Trail takes approximately 2 hours 50 minutes, while more difficult routes like the Cascate del Rutor waterfall trail from La Joux can take nearly 6 hours.
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