Stelvio Epic Rides: Forni climb

The physical challenge here combines with an unparalleled visual experience, where ice and snow tell the story of a mountain that lives all year round. This little-known climb starts from Santa Caterina Valfurva (1738 m) and ventures into the spectacular Forni valley, reaching 2176 m at the Forni Refuge, at the foot of the homonymous glacier: the largest valley glacier in Italy. The landscape is dominated by the famous 13 peaks between Tresero and Cevedale, with the majestic Gran Zebrù rising up to 3859 m. The first 1500 meters are moderate, passing by a campsite and the vehicle payment station. From here the road narrows and immediately gets tough: a stretch of 1.5 km with an average gradient of 10.4% and peaks up to 20%. The localities of Capucc and Miravalle are crossed, where the climb softens but remains challenging. Then you enter the woods up to Molinelli and, after two very steep hairpin bends, a short descent allows a breather before the final push towards Campec. The route ends at the Forni Refuge, a crossroads for hikes, mountaineering, and ski mountaineering in winter and spring.