Introduction:
The Ferrata Mazzocchi is part of a scenic rewarding itinerary in an area on the border between the provinces of Piacenza and Genoa in the Monte Nero area. The via ferrata is of limited difficulty with the exception of a more demanding passage.
Starting location:
The starting point of the trip is the Zavallo Pass in the province of Piacenza. The pass can be reached both from Piacenza and Chiavari (A12).
Directions for Google Maps available here.
Approach:
To reach the start of the Ferrata Mazzocchi it is necessary to follow the path that from the Passo dello Zovallo (1405 m) leads us to the Bivacco Sacchi (1600 m). We take the 001 path in the direction of the Black Lake. It is important to ignore all the various deviations that lead from the main path to other directions (eg: Lago Nero Rifugio) up to the glacial basin (1541 m -50 '). Walk along the northern shore and leave the 001 path to Sella Costazza and we will take the 011 path towards Fontana Gelata. On reaching this clearing (fountain just above the path) we take path 007 towards Bivacco Sacchi. Cross the small stream and climb up steeply until you reach the basin of the Dente delle Ali where the Sacchi Shelter is present (7 beds in self-management). Following the directions, you reach the Ferrata (5 'from the Shelter - 1h 45' from the parking lot).
Via Ferrata:
The via ferrata begins with a diagonal stretch to the left with limited difficulties. At the end of the ramp, after a slightly steeper stretch, we reach a traverse expanse aided with both cable and chain. After the traverse we reach an edge that, once crossed, leads to the first ladder of the route. This ladder is made up of pegs and chain (pay attention to stability uphill). At the end of the staircase, continue on a ledge to reach a rocky prominence that we can go around to the left or climb on a slightly overhanging wall with the aid of some brackets.
At the end of this pulpit we arrive at a wide ledge where there is an escape route on the left (indicated with an arrow). Alternatively, continue on a sloping slab that is poor in grips to get around an exposed edge where the cable is needed and adherence with the boots (key passage). We reach a chimney where we can choose two options:
The staircase is completed and a small terrace is reached. Continuing on a ledge we reach the last long staircase. At the end of the ladder we face the last jump of about 3 meters that leaves us on the slabau of the Groppo delle Ali (1689 m - 1h from the start - 2h 45 'from the parking lot) to enjoy the view towards Monte Nero, Monte Bue and the Ragola.
Descent:
From the top there are some descent options:
Notes:
The Ferrata Mazzocchi is an interesting via ferrata, not particularly long and of moderate difficulty. It can be an excellent choice during mid-seasons both for a rewarding trip and for a trainer in view of via ferrata in alpine areas.
A feature related to the local landscape are the pines pines that accompany us along the ascent route on the northern slope.
Opportunities:
The Mazzocchi Ferrata is linked in a loop itinerary with the Via Ferrata Adolfo Ferrari. The itinerary lengthens (6h) but amply repays the hiker, given the long approach to the car it seems a logical solution.
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Gioele Carboni
20/10/2019 at 18:19Abbinata alla vicina ferrata Ferrari in un percorso ad “anello” (prima Ferrari poi Mazzocchi) partendo da Rocca d’Aveto: sicuramente più interessante e difficile della “Ferrari”. Ambiente superlativo.
Filippo Rosi
24/04/2019 at 21:52Nice ride in a corner of Apennines I didn't know. Combined with the nearby Ferrata Ferrari.