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Cancano Lakes to the Stelvio Pass

Passo Stelvio-Stilfserjoch

Sulden

Trentino-Alto Adige

A challenging ride from the beautiful Cancano Lakes to the second highest paved mountain pass in the Alps.

Mountain Biking Severe

Distance
22 km
Ascent
1.4 km
Descent
576 m
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
1.9 km
High Point
2.8 km
Gradient
Cancano Lakes to the Stelvio Pass Map

This route is part of the Ortler High Mountain Trail—it is intensely steep and very technically challenging.

Description

Begin at the Fraele Towers, a pair of ancient fortification ruins perched on the edge of the gorgeous Cancano lakes. Head around the east side of the lake and then leave the lakeshore in the direction of Solena Alm and the Forcola Tal Valley, which takes you east.

Climb up through the valley, crossing over the Fornelle Bridge and on up a dirt track up the Pedenolo Alm alpine pasture. It's a seriously steep climb which includes a couple of series of switchbacks.

You will eventually come to Bocchette di Pedenolo, Pedenoletto and Forcola before descending over the Braulio Tal to Umbrail Pass and on to the Stelvio Pass Road. Look out for the mule track which will lead you up to the Garibaldi mountain hut and the Stelvio Pass.

Stop to admire the magnificent 3000er peaks all around you including Punta Rosa (3026m) Piz Umbrail (3033m) and Monte Scorluza (3094m).

Difficulty

Severe

Widely variable, narrow trail tread with steeper grades and unavoidable obstacles of 15in/38cm tall or less. Obstacles may include unavoidable bridges 24in/61cm wide or less, large rocks, gravel, difficult root sections, and more. Ideal for advanced-level riders.

High Exposure

3 out of 4

Some trail sections have exposed ledges or steep ascents/descents where falling could cause serious injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between May and October

Features

  • Flow
  • Technical
  • Picturesque
  • Singletrack
  • Road sections
  • Drops
  • Jumps
  • Roots
  • Rock Gardens

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area