4.7
(1341)
9,165
hikers
17
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Lago Morasco / Muraschgsee traverse a high mountain basin in the Formazza Valley, characterized by alpine landscapes and majestic peaks like Blinnenhorn and Punta d'Arbola. The region features larch and spruce forests, plateaus, and clearings, all surrounding the turquoise waters of Lago Morasco. Hikers encounter diverse terrain, from accessible paths to more rugged trails with varying elevations, including the impressive Morasco Dam and the historic Riale Alpine Village. The Toce River also originates within this…
Last updated: July 12, 2026
4.6
(7)
43
hikers
6.52km
02:01
240m
240m
Hike the moderate 4.1-mile Via del Gries: Ponte to Riale Trail, gaining 774 feet with views of alpine lakes and the Gries Pass area.
4.7
(59)
360
hikers
14.3km
05:01
780m
780m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(6)
24
hikers
5.84km
01:52
240m
240m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
14
hikers
5.91km
02:10
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(11)
70
hikers
11.9km
03:42
450m
450m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Fraction of Formazza (VB) at 1280m above sea level
0
0
Great mountain hut with good food. We felt very comfortable there.
3
0
Arriving here by bike and admiring these waterfalls gives you strong emotions.
21
1
The Toce waterfall or La Frua (Frütt Fall in Walser German dialect) is a waterfall located in the municipality of Formazza in the Frua hamlet (Uf der Frütt in Walser German dialect) at an altitude of 1675 m above sea level; with it the Toce river makes a 143 m high jump on a 200 m rocky slope, with a 60 m drop of water at the base. It is considered one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Alps, although human intervention has reduced its flow for much of the year. In fact, upstream from the waterfall the Toce forms Lake Morasco, an artificial lake from which the waters are collected for the operation of the hydroelectric power plants (in succession) of Ponte, Fondovalle, Cadarese, Crego and Crevola Toce. At the top of the waterfall there is the historic hotel (1863) which experienced the bell'epoque of Alpine tourism at the beginning of the century. The waterfall is open only for short periods of time between June and September, fully recovering its natural conformation. To reach the waterfall you need to take the Sempione state road 33 which connects Milan with the Iselle state border and once in Crevoladossola you take the Valle Antigorio and Val Formazza state road 659 for about 40 km, up to Valdo (Formazza), where the new ANAS 424 ex SS 659 road of Valle Antigorio and Val Formazza starts which, after about 8 km, leads to the waterfall. Richard Wagner, on his trip to Italy from Switzerland in 1852, defined the Toce jump as a spectacle of "overpowering beauty". Attention to the highest jump in Europe dates back to the Enlightenment era. Before this period no one gave it any importance.[1] In the last two centuries others also described its magnificence, from Gabriele d'Annunzio to Giosuè Carducci, from Queen Margherita to Vittorio Emanuele III
2
0
Hamlet of Formazza at an altitude of 1420m above sea level
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Hamlet of Formazza at an altitude of 1289m above sea level
0
0
Very good food. The innkeeper and his team love service
2
0
There are 17 hiking trails accessible directly from bus stations in the Lago Morasco / Muraschgsee area. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging alpine treks.
The best time for hiking around Lago Morasco / Muraschgsee is generally from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the alpine environment is most accessible, with pleasant temperatures and the full beauty of the turquoise lake and surrounding peaks on display. Winter offers a different, snow-covered landscape, but many trails may require specialized gear or be inaccessible.
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Toce Waterfall – Toce Waterfall loop from Canza / Früttwald is an easy 5.8 km hike that offers beautiful views without significant elevation gain. The area's diverse terrain ensures there are paths for all fitness levels.
The trails around Lago Morasco / Muraschgsee showcase a stunning alpine environment. You'll encounter majestic peaks like Blinnenhorn and Punta d'Arbola, larch and spruce forests, and the serene, often turquoise waters of Lago Morasco itself. Many routes also follow the Toce River, which originates in the Formazza Valley, offering picturesque riverside views.
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. You can explore the impressive Morasco Dam, an engineering marvel built between 1936 and 1940. The nearby Riale Alpine Village, an ancient Walser settlement, retains its historic core and serves as a starting point for many hikes, including the Via del Gries: Ponte to Riale Trail. The submerged Walser village of Morasco, lying beneath the lake's waters, adds a poignant historical layer to the scenic beauty.
Many trails in the Lago Morasco / Muraschgsee area are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the alpine scenery with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to check specific trail regulations before you go. Remember to pack water and waste bags for your pet.
Yes, several circular routes are accessible from bus stops, providing convenient options for hikers. For instance, the Wooden Flower Train – Canza Village loop from Canza / Früttwald is a moderate circular hike that allows you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps.
The hiking trails around Lago Morasco / Muraschgsee are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 1,300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views, the diverse terrain, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring this stunning alpine region a memorable experience.
For experienced trekkers seeking a challenge, the region offers several difficult routes. The Canza Village – Eugenio Margaroli Hut loop from Canza / Früttwald is a demanding 14.4 km hike with significant elevation gain, leading to an alpine hut and offering spectacular high-mountain vistas.
For additional details about the Lago Morasco area, including its history and other attractions, you can visit the official tourism website for the region. For example, you can find information about hiking around the lake on visitossola.it.
The Riale Alpine Village, a common starting point for many hikes, offers amenities such as cafes and accommodation. Other villages in the Formazza Valley, accessible by bus, also provide options for refreshments and overnight stays, allowing you to extend your visit and enjoy the local hospitality after your hike.


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