The Carlo Genoni Trail between Carcoforo and Macugnaga

The path was once a route linking Valsesia and the Anzasca Valley. Perhaps first laid out in the Middle Ages by shepherds and alpine herdsmen from the two valleys, it was also used by pilgrims travelling from the Canton of Valais to the Sanctuary of Varallo Sesia. In more recent times, it became a transit route for ‘gold prospectors’ setting out to discover the gold veins that emerged in the upper Val Quarazzola. In the last century, several mines were opened in this valley, and even today, near the pass, the tunnels and numerous remains of what was once a bustling mining industry can still be seen. This is the origin of the name ‘Passo della Miniera’ (Mining Pass).

From Carcoforo, follow path number 117, passing through Alpe Le Coste, Alpe Pasquè, Alpe Giovanchera Bella, Alpe sulla Sella and Alpe Busacca. Continue towards Alpe Badile, where five mines are visible along the path near the mountain pasture of the same name; these once provided work for around 30 miners. A few minutes’ walk from the mines lie the ruins of the miners’ huts and a dilapidated site where the extracted ore was processed, consisting of dry-stone walls, millstones and a canal diverted from the Giovanchera stream. The Carcoforesi mines were not very productive; in the early 1900s, mining operations ceased, mainly due to the fall in the value of gold. As you climb, the landscape becomes more rugged, eventually turning steep and wild near the Passo della Miniera. At the pass stands a commemorative plaque to Carlo Genoni, the mountaineer to whom the trail is dedicated. The trail to Passo della Miniera is made easier in certain sections of the initial rugged stretch by fixed chains and ropes.

Continuing towards the Quarazzola Valley along the B33 route, one comes across the remains of the ancient gold mines, which have been completely abandoned. Just below the Pass, numerous tunnels and spoil heaps bear witness to the once-intense mining activity. The extracted material was transported further down the valley by cableway to the ‘Città Morta’ (Crocette). The path descends towards Alpe Quarazzola di Sopra and the extensive pasture of Quarazzola di Sotto (which you leave on your right) to reach the ‘Città Morta’, Crocette, where the remains of the old gold-refining works are visible. The easy mule track through the Quarazza Valley soon leads to Lago delle Fate and then on to Borca.

Please note that the route is equipped with fixed ropes to aid passage on both sides. Due to its length, the difficulty involved and the steep gradients in the sections near the pass, the route is suitable only for experienced hikers.

Information sheet: Genoni.pdf
Link: CAI Varallo – 117, Passo della Miniera