Description

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

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).