Alpine Passes Trail: Stage 2

Our tips for the next stage of the Alpine Passes route:

• Rock gate in Val d'Agnel: In Val d’Agnel, erosion has shaped a spectacular rock gate over centuries. A short detour is worthwhile.
• Alp Flix: A high plateau with pine forests, mountain lakes, moorland, and flower meadows. 

The Jenatsch hut, at 2651 m above sea level, is the highest SAC hut in the canton of Graubünden. Located in Val Bever on a hill between Piz Picuogl and Piz Jenatsch, you can enjoy not only the magnificent view but also absolute peace and seclusion here. Behind Piz Picuogl lies the Vadret Calderas glacier, which in 1893 extended almost to the hut. Today, no ice is visible anymore.

A beautiful path leads up to the small lake. Here, the last blade of grass gives way to a gravel landscape, surrounded by the bright red, iron-rich rock of Piz Picuogl. Further uphill follows the Fuorcla d’Angel pass. Situated just under 3000 m above sea level, it is also the gateway to Parc Ela. In the nature park, more than 50 "Fuorcla", "Fürggli", or "Furcletta" lead on winding paths over rugged mountain ranges into other valleys. And with the Septimer, Julier, and Albula Alpine passes, there are three historically significant north-south connections in the nature park.

Heading towards the Julier Pass, you descend. After about 500 meters of altitude loss, the path branches off to climb another 200 meters. The terrain here resembles a lunar landscape. At 2700 meters, the small lake invites you to take a break – or a swim. Since it has no inflow or outflow, the water is less cold than expected.

After about three hours of hiking, a steep descent follows to Val Natons. Continuing on a high path past Kanonensattel, the route goes downhill to Salategnas. Shortly after: Tigias on Alp Flix, where the rather short but still physically demanding hike ends. The high plateau is also called the "treasure island of biodiversity."

A moorland of national significance, pine forests, and colorful flower meadows characterize the alp settlement, which is inhabited all year round. Besides agriculture, tourism is especially important here.