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• Trekking and Trails

Via Mala – the Canyon beween Scalve and Camonica valley

Please note that – as per the ordinance of the Municipality of Colere – for safety reasons it is forbidden to continue beyond the secured pedestrian path, whose end is clearly marked.

The historic Via Mala of the Dezzo River, a trek among rocks and drifting clouds, vertical cliffs, and deep gorges.

The Via Mala of Dezzo connected the Val d’Angolo, a tributary of Valcamonica (Bs), with the Val di Scalve, a territory of the Eastern Orobie Alps. It opened a passage through the mountainside in a rugged landscape, among gorges and chasms formed during the last glaciation, carved by the Dezzo River.

The name “Mala” historically indicated frequent dangerous and unsettling routes: the vertiginous cliffs that terrified travelers in the past still leave one breathless today.
Currently, the two valleys are connected by a provincial road, often eased by tunnels.

The old trail can still be safely retraced: to reach the site, head to Valle Camonica in Darfo Boario Terme, ascend to Angolo Terme, and continue toward Val di Scalve. From the first tunnel, a wild environment with dark, essential tones is perceived, where time seems to have stopped. Continuing on the narrow, winding road, you pass a second tunnel. A small clearing on the right shows where to park and continue on foot; the area is easily recognizable near a recently renovated former tollhouse. We recommend parking here if you want to visit the area: precise location

Things to do in Via Mala

There are several activities you can do while visiting this unique area:

• Follow the secured tourist path: the path is fully secured, just over one kilometer long, developed along the old road carved into the rock with an 80-meter drop above the Dezzo River, and read the informational material placed along the route.
• Climb and take a photo on the glass bridge suspended in the void.
• Descend to the Dezzo River to admire the waterfalls from below, and in summer, swim in the river.
• Try fishing: see the page Fishing in Via Mala
• In winter, admire the ice formations of the ice waterfalls, always respecting the ordinance limits.
• Stop at the Canyon Bar for a tasty break or lunch immersed in nature.