Luigi Marson Glaciological Trail

The Marson Glaciological Trail allows hikers to get close to the splendid natural environment in which the Fellaria glacier is located, one of the largest in the central Italian Alps. It offers different routes (A and B) to learn about the glaciological aspects of the area, as well as the geomorphological features of the entire ecosystem closely linked to the presence of the glacier. Created by the Lombard Glaciological Service, it is dedicated to Luigi Marson, a scholar who lived between the 19th and 20th centuries, a member of the Italian Geographical Society, and among the first to carry out scientific observations of the glaciers in Valmalenco. From Rifugio Bignami, continue towards Marinelli, cross the torrent, then cross the pastures heading north, passing under a rock band (route B) to reach the edge of the proglacial plain, where wonderful roche moutonnée can be observed. The path, marked with blue blazes, winds through the plain, touching points highlighted by plaques showing the drastic retreat of the glacier recorded since the so-called Little Ice Age (around 1850). From the plain, it is possible to reconnect to route A (which in its final part retraces the high variant of stage 6 of the Alta Via) by ascending the right lateral moraine at its less steep section to reach the small Fellaria lake, then return along a trail descending past the upper side of the rock band. The entire route should be tackled under good weather and visibility conditions; special attention is required on some exposed sections. Do not attempt to cross the glacier without the accompaniment of a mountain guide or without proper preparation and equipment.