The physical challenge here is combined with an unparalleled visual experience, where ice and snow tell the story of a mountain that lives year-round. This lesser-known climb begins in Santa Caterina Valfurva (1738 m) and winds through the enchanting Forni Valley, reaching Rifugio Forni at 2176 m, nestled beneath Italy’s largest valley glacier, the Forni Glacier. The area is framed by the famous group of 13 peaks stretching from Tresero to Cevedale, and dominated by the majestic Gran Zebrù (3859 m). The first 1.5 km of the route offers a gentle ascent past a campsite and the toll station for motor vehicles. Then the road narrows and steepens with a challenging 1.5 km section averaging a 10.4% gradient and peaks reaching 20%. The climb continues through Capucc and Miravalle, slightly easing yet remaining tough. Riders enter the forest, pass Molinelli, and tackle two steep switchbacks before a short downhill respite precedes the final ramp to Campec. The route ends at Rifugio Forni, a key starting point for hikes, alpine climbs, and ski touring during the winter and spring months.
Stelvio Epic Rides: Forni climb
Itinerary details
Road bike
1:05 h
4.93 km
431 m
Moderate
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Find your stay, events, services, passes, forecast & webcams
Trying to organise your holiday in Bormio? We've put all the information you need in one place: from which mountain passes are open (so you can plan your journey), to our guide to what's on during your stay, information on which lifts are open, and the opening times for QC Terme Bormio and Bormio Terme. You can also find a list of local restaurants and equipment rental shops.
