FATMAP by Strava

Western Transalp: Susa to Usseglio

Charbonnel Group

Usseglio

The first leg of the incredible 6-day crossing of the Western Alps.

Mountain Biking Difficult

Distance
30 km
Ascent
2.2 km
Descent
1.4 km
Duration
4-5 hrs
Low Point
491 m
High Point
2.5 km
Gradient
19˚
Western Transalp: Susa to Usseglio Map

Beginning at Susa train station, leave the town in the direction of Urbiano, following signs for “Rocciamelone.” Brace yourself for a steep start as you climb up and around part of the 3535m Rocciamelone mountain on terrain that gets progressively more challenging. The asphalt surface quickly changes into gravel, and then at around 2000m, the path is no longer ridable. You will have to walk for several kilometres, passing the Capanna Sociale Aurelio Ravetto hut at around 2500m, where you can stop for a breather. After the hut, you will have another short burst of pushing until you come to Colle Croce di Ferro, where you begin a technically demanding stone slab descent to the beautiful Lago di Malciaussia, which is the highlight of the day’s ride. After the lake, you continue to descend down to the village of Usseglio.

Description

Difficulty

Difficult

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability featuring larger and more unavoidable obstacles that may include, but not be limited to: bigger stones, roots, steps, and narrow curves. Compared to lower intermediate, technical difficulty is more advanced and grades of slopes are steeper. Ideal for upper intermediate riders.

High Exposure

3 out of 4

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

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between April and October

Features

  • Technical
  • Hike a bike
  • Picturesque
  • Road sections
  • Rock Slabs

Guidebooks in this area