The Piani dell'Avaro (Piani dell'Avaro Plains), above Cusio, is a plateau at 1700 meters where the mountain is experienced without complications: you drive up to the altitude and from there you move on foot, slowly, following the meadows, pastures and the open horizon over the valleys.Here the seasons are clearly read in the landscape. In spring the grass regains its color after the last snow, in autumn the light becomes softer and quieter. Summer is the time of the mountain pasture: the cows grazing, the sound of cowbells, the production of Formai de Mut dell'Alta Valle Brembana DOP, which comes from these very meadows. It is the perfect time to walk among the alpine pastures or push on to the highest trails in the Orobie Park, such as the Benigni Refuge or the Laghetti di Ponteranica.In winter everything is covered in white. The Piani become a simple and welcoming place to take the bobsled, go snowshoeing or stop at the refuge to warm up and eat something local.One of the surprises, here, comes when it gets dark: the sky is among the clearest in the Orobie, far from the lights of the villages. For many, this is the best time to climb up, look at the stars and be in silence.For a sweeping view of the valley, a light walk to the statue of Christ or the Cross is enough: a few steps, lots of views.
The mountain is also accessible in winter, but only to experienced hikers with appropriate equipment; during the winter season it is also advisable to contact the huts in advance to check if they are open.
