Hiking - Cima Cars

While reaching Casino del Cars is straightforward, the ascent to Cima Cars begins on a path that is not well-marked and then, for the final stretch, proceeds over a grassy ridge with no tracks or trail markers. There are no technical difficulties, other than route-finding.

A truly rewarding ascent that, on clear days, offers breathtaking views: from the nearby Marguareis and the more distant peaks of the Valle Gesso, all the way to the faraway snow-capped summits of the Alpine arc rising beyond the plain.

On the right side of the Pian Marchisio forest road (elev. 1506 m), the small path climbs steeply through grass and shrubs. A long, gently ascending traverse leads into a small beech wood. After leaving the wood, you reach a small plateau, where the climb becomes steep again, heading up pasture slopes with few switchbacks, on the orographic right of a small gully. You thus arrive at the scenic knoll where the private Rifugio Comino stands (1797 m, 0:55 hours from the junction at elev. 1506).
The path now blends in with numerous tracks left by grazing animals: head generally up the grassy ridge to the pasture saddle of Casino del Cars (1864 m, 0:15 hours from Rifugio Comino), located between the Ellero and Pesio valleys.
Of the many forks, take the one on the left: cross the meadow heading south and you will pick up the more distinct path again, which runs alongside the rock face. Gain elevation via a few tight switchbacks to reach another grassy saddle. Cross it on level ground, then turn south into a narrow, steep-sided valley. The path disappears at times among low vegetation: ignore a track on the left heading to Cima Cars, then turn sharply northwest and, following a wide ledge, you will reach an unnamed but very scenic col.
A flat section heading southwest leads to the western buttress of Cima Cars, which marks the edge of the upper Vallone di Serpentera. Here, be careful to leave the marked path, which continues slightly downhill towards Colletto Pellerina, and turn left (east).
Climb up the buttress through meadows and rhododendrons, where there is no track or trail markers of any kind. Aim for the small saddle to the left (northwest) of the summit, where a clear track reappears. Following it to the right, you will soon reach the summit of Cima Cars (2217 m, 1:20 hours from Casino del Cars).