Frasco-Capanna Efra-Frasco

This two-day round walk starts and ends in Frasco, which can be reached by car or bus (Locarno-Tenero-Sonogno route). The path starts by following the Riale d'Efra stream through the densely wooded Val d'Efra. Sycamore, chestnut and, later, larch dominate the valley here. The path remains fairly flat until Montada, after which it climbs to the magnificent Alpe dell'Efra; a simple bivouac offering shelter in bad weather is available here.

The tour continues upwards to the Lago d’Efra, sparkling like a diamond in this rugged mountainscape. A dip in the water might provide added energy for the day's final ascent to the Capanna Efra (June-October).

The second day is technically more demanding, involving an ascent to the Passo di Gagnone (views of the Leventina valley) and an exposed ridge traverse to Scaiee: this part of the tour should not be attempted in bad weather and only by persons free from giddiness and in good physical condition. The descent is long but straightforward. On arrival at Fromighera, follow the Verzasca back to Frasco.