There’s something magical about setting out on a mountain trail with nothing but fresh air, stunning views, and the promise of a cozy refuge waiting at the end. Hiking to Capanna Corno Gries is one of those adventures thats worth your time while in the Ticino mountains of the Swiss Alps.
So lace up your boots, pack a few essentials, and get inspired for a hike to Capanna Corno Gries, a place where the mountains invite you to slow down and enjoy every step, with fantastic views of the valley!
All photos in this post are based on our hike mid June 2026.
Hiking To Capanna Corno Gries
Hiking Route Details
Here below are the hiking route details that we followed along for our visit to Capanna Corno Gries.
The stats for one way hiking up are:
- 2km in distance
- around 54 minutes only
- 290 meter elevation gain
This was a steady climb up, and we saw all ages hiking here. Definitely child friendly, but keep in mind there is no shade at all.
Start of the hike
We started our hike at the base of the beautiful Nufenen Pass. We parked our car specifically at this parking spot and paid only 5 CHF for the day, but you can also consider hiking from other areas nearby for free.
For the hike, there are also a few routes you can hike up from either side of the pass, but we started on the Ticino side and headed straight up.
If the bus is scheduled, you can get off at the following bus stop location: Cruina Bus Stop
The Route
The majority of the route is a dirt path that you hike up. It is not too steep but many enjoyed hiking here with hiking poles – we did this without the poles. It’s a steady climb up to the Capanna.
The route has no shade so keep this in mind on hot days.
Along the way, especially in June like our photos, you’ll see lots of little flowers and shiny mineral filled rocks. Photos dont always do them justice as the rocks shine so brightly in the sunshine while walking past!
Capanna Corno Gries
After the 290 meter elevation gain, we had arrived. It’s such a cool looking Capanna don’t you think?! Like it has a UFO sat on top of the building itself.
Since we hiked this route during the June 2026 heatwaves, it was much cooler here, but also still tiring. We were planning to hike further to the Lake Griessee, but decided to stop our hike at Capanna Corno Gries for a cold drink instead before heading back down.
We decided to reward ourselves with a local Swiss beer and to sit and relax on their terrace. It’s a lovely building, and if you’re coming with a big group you are advised to reserve a table in advance so that they can accommodate you. As we were just two, we found a spot and shared one of the large picnic tables with other hikers.
What we loved was that we could see also mountain bikers in the area, climbing up the valley from a different route to what we hiked. Some of them stopped also for a drink, whereas others cycled onwards to their further destination.
TIP: You can consider also sleeping the night at the Capanna for a small fee. Which is great for if you want to do some longer hikes in the area or to simply chill longer in the mountains .Check their website and reserve in advance.
Nearby Hikes And Activities:
The Beauty Of The Nufenen Pass, Switzerland
Scenic Ticino Hiking At 2 Lakes: Lago di Tremorgio and Lago di Leit
Swiss Scenic Drive At The Furka Pass
Autumn Scenery In The Bedretto Valley, Ticino
Piora Valley Ticino Hiking: The 3 Lakes Of Lago Ritom, Lago Di Tom And Lago Cadagno
Back down the mountain
For the route back down, we followed the same route back to the parking location. But you can consider to continue the route to the Lake Griessee Glacier higher up and then around the Nufenenstock (2,866m) to the top of the Nufenen Pass.
I’m sure we’ll be back in the future to hike up to the glacier, as it looks very pretty!
Tips for the hike
The Capanna Corno Gries accepts card payments, else make sure to have some CHF cash with you.
The hike has no shade, so dress appropriately with suncream, a hat and sunglasses on hot days. Also have something to cover with for if the weather changes fast. Not to state the obvious, but suitable shoes are a must here. Some of the dirt path sections are a little loose so without a decent grip from your shoes, you may slip.
Take plenty of water and snacks with you, regardless of it being a 1 hour one way hike or if you hike the longer routes. You never want to be without refreshments in the mountains.
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