Porte di Roma (Gates of Rome) – Name of uncertain etymological origin is a narrow passage between rocks used in ancient times by shepherds and herds that connects the high pastures of the Valloni di Ussolo.

From Ussolo (m.1337) the old path climbs to Grange Passo (m.1707) where it joins the dirt road for Grange Chiotto Ligera and arrives at Borgata Grangette (m.1823) where the old Ussolo hut was located, destroyed by an avalanche and whose ruins are still visible.

Upstream from the ruins, the route follows the traces of the old path that climbs along the stony ground to the summit prairies of Monte Chirlè; in this section, the path can be confused with the furrows made by grazing cows, but the signs and posts clearly mark the route.

Near a large boulder with signs, we turn sharply to the left and, following the posts and signs on mixed scree, we reach the pre-existing Sentiero dei Pastori (Shepherds’ Path), which takes us to the Porte di Roma (2323 m).

Once over the pass, the trail cuts across the meadowy slope of Monte Ruisass to reach the base of the hump of Monte Cappel. A spring, probably active all year round, emerges along this stretch.

From the col near the ridge line (marked trail) with a spectacular route in view of the entire upper Maira Valley, it reaches Colletto Serasin (m.2040).

From the col steep and short descent into the larch wood to reach the crossroads for the return journey

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)