The Lavertezzo to Sonogno hike, usually walked from Sonogno down to Lavertezzo, is the best-known stretch of the Sentiero Verzasca, a path that follows the river through the valley.
The route at a glance
- Start: Sonogno, at about 992 m, the end of the valley road.
- Finish: Lavertezzo and the Ponte dei Salti, about 536 m.
- Distance and time: about 14 km, 3.5 to 4 hours, with a total descent of about 640 m.
- Terrain: a mix of riverside trails, stone steps, woods and small villages. Mostly downhill, some short climbs.
- Season: listed March to November. Weather and storm damage can close sections.
How to do it without a car
- Take the train to Locarno or Tenero and the PostBus up the valley to Sonogno. See how to get to Lavertezzo.
- Walk downhill to Lavertezzo.
- Return by PostBus to Locarno. Check the last bus from Lavertezzo before you start.
By car you can park at Lavertezzo, take the bus up and walk back to your car, which avoids a long uphill return.
Rain upstream matters. The Verzasca can rise quickly. Do not walk the low river sections during or after heavy rain, and never cross the water where the path does not go. See swimming safety and the weather.
Along the way
Sonogno has the Museo di Val Verzasca and a quiet centre, see Sonogno and Corippo. Further down are small stone settlements, bridges and pools. Save your swim for the end at Lavertezzo.
What to bring
- Sturdy shoes with grip, rain jacket and layers.
- Water and food, as there are few shops along the path.
- Offline map or SchweizMobil route, charged phone.
- Swimwear for a dip at the finish, only in safe, dry conditions.
Sleep in Sonogno or Lavertezzo
Some hikers split the Sentiero over two days and stay in the upper valley. See hotels around Lavertezzo and other hikes near Lavertezzo.
Browse stays in the Verzasca Valley
Frequently asked questions
How long is the hike from Sonogno to Lavertezzo?
About 14 km and 3.5 to 4 hours of walking, with a descent of around 640 m and some short climbs. Route listings differ slightly.
What is the Sentierone?
Locals and hikers often use it for the long riverside path through the Verzasca Valley, officially promoted as the Sentiero Verzasca. The first stage runs from Sonogno to Lavertezzo.
Should I walk up or down?
Down. Take the PostBus to Sonogno and walk to Lavertezzo, so you have the descent and finish at the Ponte dei Salti. Check the bus times and the last return first.
Is the hike difficult?
It is rated easy to moderate, with medium fitness needed. Sections can be rocky and slippery near the water.
Can I continue to Locarno?
The official route continues towards Corippo and Locarno as a second stage. Check SchweizMobil for times, closures and detours.
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