Geological and soil science trail on the Cimalegna plateau

It is a circular route at an altitude of around 3,000 metres, along which there are eight information panels illustrating the geological history of this part of the Alps, the main outcrops and their soils. The trail starts at Passo dei Salati, at 2,936 metres, which can be reached by cable car from Alagna Valsesia and Gressoney-la Trinité. It then descends to the historic Angelo Mosso Scientific Institute, near Lake Bowditch, before continuing to the former Vigevano Mountain Hut; it then heads west to Col d’Olen (2,881 m) and climbs to Corno del Camoscio (3,024 m), where there is a 360° panoramic view of the southern slope of Monte Rosa, the Valsesia and the Gressoney Valley; the route finally descends northwards, returning to the Passo dei Salati.
The Cimalegna Plateau, across which the route winds, is a glacial plateau and an ideal place to explore the geological history of the north-western Alps, with particular focus on the geological processes of the last 200 million years. The information boards use photographs and diagrams to explain the geological history of this area, from the ancient Tethys Ocean right through to the formation of the Alps, whilst also focusing on the soils, which form here under unique conditions due to the presence of an almost flat terrain, high altitudes and extreme climatic conditions.

Information material: depli_cimalegna_2014.pdf
Link: Alta Valsesia Park: Cimalegna geological and soil science trail