Mountain bike from Schilpario to Venerocolo lakes through Vivione Pass

Breathtaking viewpoints, pristine nature, high-altitude natural lakes with all shades of green and blue, a series of stream crossings, and wild blueberries define this route, which requires good fitness and solid MTB skills. With a bit of luck, you might spot some marmots. Water refill points are available along the entire itinerary. A full-suspension bike and proper high-altitude gear are recommended.

Technical details

Difficulty: OC/EC
Length: 32.8 km
Time in motion: 4 h 31 min
Rideability: (65% uphill) — (75% downhill)
Recommended period: June – October
Asphalt: 30% — Dirt roads: 20% — Trail: 50%
Min altitude: 1066 m — Max altitude: 2425 m
Elevation gain: Ascent 2043 m — Descent 2042 m
Push sections: YES — Bike carrying sections: YES — GPS track: YES
GPS TRACK IS ESSENTIAL
Tested and approved by: Gian Pietro M. – Nicola T. – Riccardo P. – Alex B.

Rating: Good
Technical advice: Always carry caution, courtesy, respect, and proper etiquette. Pay attention to trail deviations. Carefully evaluate weather conditions before starting.

Route

The starting point is Piazzale degli Alpini in Schilpario. Begin by following the long but gentle 12 km climb to Passo del Vivione. Once at the pass and after taking a commemorative photo, turn left onto the dirt road that skirts the pond and follow the CAI 416 trail signs toward Passo del Gatto and Rifugio Tagliaferri.

After a short flat dirt section, cross a stream and at the first junction, keep right following the CAI markers as the trail begins to climb. From this point, the most challenging section begins, lasting about two hours until Passo del Gatto, requiring frequent push/pedal changes and, in some cases, carrying the MTB, especially during the second hour of climbing.

This section features numerous springs and water flows, forming the small heart-shaped lake in the lower Val Bona basin. The abundant water allows for carrying minimal liquids in your backpack, reducing shoulder load.

After passing the lake, the altitude gain is rapid, offering breathtaking views but requiring heightened attention and caution. Near the top, up to Passo del Gatto at 2415 m, the air thins, but the slopes ease, allowing strong riders some vigorous pedaling. Be aware that the plentiful water, open exposure, and grassy patches are a perfect habitat for vipers — STAY ALERT!

From Passo del Gatto, after refreshing and taking memorable photos, follow the descending trail carefully to reach the San Carlo lakes, offering another spectacular panorama. After a short descent, the altitude rises again, forcing another push section with your MTB.

WATCH FOR THE NEXT TURN

At the top of the climb, continue left following signs for Schilpario and Vò (CAI 414). (Off-trail, turn right for 100 meters to reach Passo del Veneroccolo, the end point of the high-altitude bike trail from Aprica).

Keeping your gaze to the right, you can glimpse the Laghetti del Veneroccolo, one of the most beautiful spots along this route — a perfect place for another break. Continue faithfully along CAI 414 trail, which leads into a long and technical descent, crossing a stream and, in case of rain, several fords. The lower section becomes a dirt road until it joins the flat valley path, which to the right leads to the Vò waterfalls.

Proceed left along the road, which becomes asphalted, until the stop. Turn left, follow the asphalt climb, and head toward Schilpario through the town center. At the main square, keep right on Via Padre Maj until the stop. Turn right, then after a few meters turn left to return to the starting point.

Original text adapted. For more information and detailed maps, you can download the printable sheet or click here (Route No. 10).
Route published in collaboration with ORANGEMTB
Discover many more routes at www.orangemtb.com