The refuge is dedicated to the memory of abbot Giovanni Gnifetti, the parish priest of Alagna, explorer of Monte Rosa and the first to climb Signalkuppe in 1842, the summit which has now his name.
The history of Capanna Gnifetti reads much like the history of Sezione del Cai Varallo (the Cai Varallo Section).

Free overnight stay for coach drivers and holiday representatives who are providing assistance to groups of at least 25 persons, organised by travel and tourist agencies

Pont-Saint-Martin motorway exit. At the Pont-Saint-Martin exit of the A5, turn right and follow the signs for Turin. At the first roundabout turn left and follow the signs for the valley of Gressoney. Go into the built-up area of Pont-Saint-Martin and after approximately 500 metres take the road which branches off to the right and carry on along the regional road of the valley of Gressoney. Go past the towns of Lillianes, Fontainemore, Issime, Gaby and Gressoney-Saint-Jean. Having reached the built-up centre of Gressoney-La-Trinité keep going straight on until you reach the large square where the Gabiet cableway begins. The first telecabin goes as far as the intermediate station at Alpe Gabiet; the second telecabin reaches the Passo dei Salati. From here the cableway to Indren leaves, from the arrival station there is an hour and a half to walk to reach the refuge.

The nearest train station is at Pont-Saint-Martin.
Scheduled coach service as far as Gressoney-La-Trinité (approximately 10 trips a day).