The Rif. Silvio Dorigoni in the Stelvio National Park is definitely one of the most well-known and historic mountain huts of Trentino. It is situated at the valley bottom of the stunning Val di Rabbi and dominated by the majestic mountains bordering Alto Adige. There are two different routes leading to this destination: the first one, described in this article, is an easy, very long path but with a lower elevation gain. The alternative route instead is more famous, shorter and more typical for this area as it passes past the Cascate del Saent waterfalls. This latter path is very steep with considerable elevation gain and requires caution.

We drive to the starting point of our hike. In San Bernardo in the Val di Rabbi we follow the signs to the end of the village and the car park of the paths towards Rifugio Lago Corvo and Malga Caldesa. Here we take path no. 130 leading directly to Rifugio Dorigoni without particular difficulties. Be careful about the crossroads at Malga Artise/Terzolasa where the path splits: you need to take the upper part climbing uphill.

For our return we take path no. 106 to Prà del Saent, a stunning bucolic plain with an unmarked path where the stream Rabbies with its tranquil waters flows through the green meadows. Here we leave path 106 in change for an unmarked but easily recognisable and well-maintained path that takes us back to the car park.

Author: Giacomo Roccabruna