The Rutor waterfalls: trails among the offspring of the great glacier
If you've chosen La Thuile, an excursion to the Rutor falls is a must. Just a few kilometres away, you’ll encounter a breathtaking natural spectacle. Three waterfalls cascade down in stages from elevations of 2,030, 1,850 and 1,700 metres, fed by one of the largest glaciers of the Aosta Valley, channelling the glacier’s waters downstream into the Dora del Rutor torrent.
Amidst gorges and precipices, the powerful surge of water will accompany your journey, embodying a wild nature that welcomes visitors but remains untamed – a nature in which to dive and emerge refreshed.
Among ancient coniferous forests and timeless mule tracks, the only mark of human craftsmanship is the iron bridge, constructed in 2014 by the third waterfall, designed to enhance the view and commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Rutor falls’ discovery.
Here, you can truly immerse yourself in the refreshing mountain waters, which, upon striking the rocks, mist your skin, leaving both your body and mind with a delicate sense of lightness.
Rutor falls: how to get there
The Rutor falls can be reached from the hamlet of La Joux, about 3 km from La Thuile. The route is easy and suitable for children and families (difficulty level E - Hiking).
The first Rutor waterfall can be reached in 20 minutes by following trail no. 3 or no. 19. The same path leads to the other two waterfalls. The full hike to the third Rutor waterfall takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
