Capanna Quarnei – Remote Alpine Hut & Upper Verzasca Hiking Base

The Capanna Quarnei is a small, remote mountain hut set high above the Val Verzasca, in the Canton of Ticino. Surrounded by rugged terrain and broad alpine basins, it serves primarily as a stage hut for experienced alpine hikers and long-distance trekkers. Its appeal lies in isolation, simplicity, and continuity of route rather than comfort or technical climbing.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Upper Val Verzasca, Canton of Ticino, Switzerland

  • Altitude: ≈ 2,100–2,200 m (to be confirmed)

  • Type: Mountain hut / alpine chalet (non-SAC)

  • Capacity: Approx. 15–25 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Open/guarded: typically June to September (weather-dependent)

  • Management: Local alpine association / cooperative

• Access & Approaches

  Access is long and fully alpine, demanding good fitness.

  • Main approaches: From villages in the Val Verzasca

  • Hiking time: ~4–6 hours (route-dependent)

  • Elevation gain: ~1,200–1,600 m

  • Terrain: Steep forest paths, alpine meadows, rocky sections

  • Difficulty: T3–T4

  Sure-footedness, stamina, and basic navigation skills are essential.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Facilities are basic and oriented toward autonomy.

  • Dormitory-style sleeping (blankets; sleeping bag liner recommended)

  • Simple meals or self-catering depending on season

  • Limited water supply

  • Basic toilets

  Comfort is minimal, consistent with the hut’s remoteness.

• Food & Atmosphere

  Quiet, isolated, and authentic.

  • Simple alpine food (when available)

  • Guests are mainly long-distance hikers and small trekking groups

  • Evenings are calm and silent, focused on rest and route planning

  Crowds are rare due to the demanding approaches.

• Routes & Alpine Context

  The Capanna Quarnei is well suited for:

  • Remote alpine hiking in the upper Val Verzasca

  • Multi-day trekking itineraries linking isolated valleys

  • Crossings toward neighboring alpine basins (route-dependent)

  • Exploration of lesser-known Ticino mountain terrain

  It is not intended for glacier travel or technical mountaineering.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to early September

  • Conditions: Snow may linger early in the season

  • Main risks: Isolation, sudden weather changes, limited escape routes

  Conservative planning is strongly advised.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced alpine hikers

  • Long-distance trekkers

  • Visitors seeking solitude and wild landscapes

  • Not suitable for beginners or casual hikers

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At around 2,100–2,200 m, the Capanna Quarnei exemplifies the raw and secluded character of the Verzasca Alps. Long approaches, minimal infrastructure, and deep silence make it ideal for hikers who value effort, remoteness, and continuity of trail over convenience or popularity.