The best MTB trails around Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro
4.4
(1010)
6,676
riders
167
rides
Mountain bike trails around Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro offer diverse landscapes, from high-altitude dirt roads to dense forests. The region is characterized by the limestone Marguareis Massif, reaching 2,651 meters, and features significant elevation changes. Extensive forests of silver firs, beeches, and chestnuts cover much of the area, providing varied terrain for mountain biking. Karstic features and a rich biodiversity further define the natural environment.
Best mountain bike trails around Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Chapel of the Olocco – Olocco Chapel loop from Parcheggio Pian delle Gorre, a 16.2 miles (26.1 km) trail that takes 3 hours 8 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain through varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Church of San Giovanni – Fountain Near the Chapel loop from Carnino Superiore, a difficult 29.8 miles (47.9 km) path. This route offers extensive riding through the park's diverse natural settings.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Pian delle Gorre – Piero Garelli Hut loop from Parcheggio Pian delle Gorre, a 12.9 miles (20.7 km) trail leading through alpine scenery and forests, often completed in about 3 hours 57 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro is defined by limestone massifs, dense forests, and high-altitude dirt roads. The network offers options for various ability levels, from moderate to difficult routes.
- The routes in Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 900 reviews. More than 6000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.6
(28)
170
riders
24.5km
03:07
1,150m
1,150m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.6
(5)
40
riders
26.1km
03:09
1,120m
1,120m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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4.7
(7)
34
riders
47.9km
04:41
1,550m
1,550m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(1)
18
riders
20.7km
03:57
1,390m
1,380m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.0
(2)
19
riders
17.6km
02:52
1,020m
1,020m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
Left home at 7 am, arrived at the Pian delle Gorre refuge at 8:30 am for breakfast and around 8:45 am departure for the tour… and to think that it was supposed to be just the Pis del Pesio loop… but then, arriving at the crossroads, I remembered Tissone's words who had been there just a week before and told me that the Pis doesn't wet, so what do I do, go see a waterfall without water?? No way!! And so off towards the Duca pass… then, arriving from the Duca… it was still early… alright, I got carried away… off towards the Garelli refuge… and back to the Pian delle Gorre refuge… a top day!!! I almost didn't deserve it!!! But that’s it!!! So, a big loop!! But damn me and damn these f…ing loop tours… ahahahah… a very positive first experience!!! I was home at 4:30 pm
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... Duca e Garelli trail … show me the way Started from home at 7, arrived at Rifugio Pian delle Gorre at 8:30, breakfast and around 8:45 departure for the tour… and to think that it was supposed to be just the Pis del Pesio loop… but then, arriving at the crossroads, I remembered Tissone's words who had been there just a week before and told me that the Pis wasn't pissing anymore and so what do I do, go see a waterfall without water?? No way!! And so off towards Passo del Duca… then arriving from the Duca… it was still early… alright then I got carried away… off towards Rifugio Garelli… and back to Rifugio Pian delle Gorre… a top day!!! I almost didn't deserve it!!! But that’s it!!! So loop!! But damn me and damn these fucking loop trails… ahahahah … as a first experience very positive!!! At 16:30 I was home
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Located at 1,928 meters above sea level in the heart of the homonymous Natural Park, this small alpine body of water lies in a picturesque grassy hollow right at the foot and start of the famous Torinesi and Genovesi canals. Next to the lake is the Rifugio Garelli with the adjacent botanical station "Danilo Re". Being a protected area with a very high biodiversity value, it is the ideal place to stop and observe up close the rich flora typical of the park and, with a bit of attention, spot the chamois and marmots that inhabit the area.
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A Carthusian monastery (from the Latin *cartusia*) is a monastery of the Carthusian Order. This order is considered one of the strictest and most solitary orders of the Catholic Church. Unlike most other monasteries, the monks in a Carthusian monastery do not live in dormitories, but as hermits. Each monk lives in his own small house with a private garden. The monks spend most of the day silently and alone in their houses, where they pray, study, and work (e.g., gardening or crafts). They only gather in the church or refectory for certain services (such as Matins) and for the communal Sunday meal.
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From here, a wide panorama opens up over the surrounding plain, while a fork leads to Passo del Duca: to the left along the path, to the right following the road. The path coming from Vallone del Marguareis and the mule track that climbs from Gias degli Arpi also converge at this point. From here, Passo del Duca can be easily reached in a few minutes.
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An Alpine pass that can be reached quite easily, if you follow the wide mule track that climbs in hairpin bends and that starts from Gias degli Arpi
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Waterfall easily reachable from the homonymous locality Gias Fontana, which is located three quarters of an hour from Pian delle Gorre
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro?
There are over 170 mountain bike trails in Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What are the typical difficulty levels for mountain biking in the park?
The park offers a diverse range of trails. You'll find 9 easy routes, 60 moderate routes, and 101 difficult routes, catering to everyone from beginners to experienced 'cycle alpinists'.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails in Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro?
The terrain is highly varied, characterized by the limestone Marguareis Massif, dense forests of silver firs, beeches, and chestnuts, and high-altitude dirt roads. You can expect significant elevation changes and diverse natural settings, including areas with karstic features.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike routes in the area?
Yes, there are 9 easy mountain bike routes suitable for families or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These trails often pass through lush green scenery, such as chestnut groves and beech forests, providing a pleasant experience for all.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the mountain bike trails?
The park is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter impressive alpine scenery, karstic phenomena like resurgences, and extensive forests. Notable natural attractions include the Saut Waterfalls, Waterfall Gias Fontana, and the Pis del Pesio Waterfalls. The Marguareis Lake is another beautiful spot.
Are there any historical or cultural attractions accessible by mountain bike?
Absolutely. The park is home to the historic Certosa di Pesio, a former Carthusian monastery founded in 1173. You can explore its 16th-century cloister and learn about its history. The route Duke Pass – Pesio Charterhouse loop from Certosa di Pesio is a great way to combine mountain biking with a visit to this national monument.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro?
The best time for mountain biking generally spans from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable, and the trails are typically free of snow, allowing access to high-altitude routes like the Alta Via del Sale. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially in early spring or late autumn.
Are there circular mountain bike routes available?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in the park are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the challenging Chapel of the Olocco – Olocco Chapel loop from Parcheggio Pian delle Gorre and the extensive Church of San Giovanni – Fountain Near the Chapel loop from Carnino Superiore.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 900 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging alpine sections to serene forest paths, and the well-maintained network of trails that cater to various skill levels.
Is it possible to find routes that include waterfalls?
Yes, several routes offer the chance to see beautiful waterfalls. For example, the Pian delle Gorre – Waterfall Gias Fontana loop from Parcheggio Pian delle Gorre is a difficult route that takes you past the impressive Waterfall Gias Fontana.
Are there any routes that offer significant elevation gain for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Pian delle Gorre – Piero Garelli Hut loop from Parcheggio Pian delle Gorre offer substantial elevation gain through alpine scenery and forests. The Ciclovia del Duca, a former military road, is also known for its challenging 1400-meter elevation gain over 15 km.
Most popular routes around Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro
Most popular attractions around Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro
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