Grande Traversata delle Alpi

Route overview

The Grande Traversata delle Alpi, commonly known as the GTA, is a long-distance alpine trail of approximately 1,000 kilometres that traverses the western Italian Alps from the Ligurian coast near Ventimiglia to the Piedmontese plain near Turin. The route crosses four distinct alpine ranges: the Ligurian Alps, the Maritime Alps, the Cottian Alps, and the Graian Alps. The trail was established by the Italian Alpine Club in the 1970s and follows a network of military roads, shepherds' paths, and high mountain tracks. It passes through remote valleys, high passes, and traditional alpine communities that have maintained their distinct Occitan, Franco-Provençal, and Walser cultural identities. The highest points reach over 2,800 metres. The GTA is one of the most demanding long-distance trails in Europe, with long days, significant elevation gain, and some exposed and technical sections. It is much less frequented than the Tour du Mont Blanc or the Alta Via 1, offering solitude and a wilder alpine experience.

The GTA, a long-distance alpine traverse from Liguria to Piedmont through the western Italian Alps, crossing the Ligurian Alps, Maritime Alps, Cottian Alps and Graian Alps.

Trail facts

Country

Italy

Region

Italian Alps

Distance

c. 1,000 km

Typical duration

7–10 weeks

Difficulty

Hard

Elevation gain

c. 60,000 m cumulative

Best season

July–September

Trail type

Alpine traverse

Safety context

High passes are snow-covered until July. Some sections are exposed to rockfall and avalanche debris. Water sources can be scarce on the highest ridges. The full traverse requires alpine experience.

The GTA is a serious undertaking comparable to the Pacific Crest Trail in commitment. Some sections require via ferrata equipment. Refuges are sparse in some sectors. The route is not well known outside Italy.

Highlights

Ventimiglia and the Ligurian coast Colle di Tenda and the Maritime Alps Valle Maira and Occitan villages Monte Viso — the Matterhorn of the Cottian Alps Valle di Susa and Sacra di San Michele Turin and the Piedmont plain finish Remote alpine valleys Traditional mountain cultures

Why find a buddy

A major alpine traverse through remote Italian valleys and high passes — a committed partner is essential for safety, logistics and shared experience on one of Europe's most demanding long trails.

Primary source

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