Corno Grande (Gran Sasso)

Corno Grande (2,912m) is the highest peak in the Apennine Mountains, forming the central massif of the Gran Sasso d'Italia in Italy. The 'Via Normale' (Normal Route) is the primary non-climbing ascent originating from the Campo Imperatore plateau. The trail traverses high-altitude karst terrain, characterized by barren limestone slopes and significant verticality. The route includes sustained climbs through the 'Brecciaio' scree field and a final Class 2 limestone scramble to the western summit. Positioned between the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian seas, the summit provides significant regional visibility over the central Italian peninsula.

One of the most frequented day hikes from El Chaltén, the route to Laguna Torre leads to a glacial lake at the base of the Torre massif. The 18 km out-and-back trail follows the Fitz Roy River valley, moving through sub-antarctic forests of ñire and lenga. The terrain is primarily well-maintained gravel paths and packed dirt, with a short initial ascent followed by mostly level walking through the glacial valley. The destination offers direct views of Cerro Torre (3,128m) and the Adela range, with icebergs frequently calving from the Torre Glacier into the lake.