Road of the 52 Tunnels

The recommended starting point for this combined route is Bocchetta di Campiglia. You'll find parking available there, though it can fill up quickly during peak season. Arriving early is advisable.

This is a difficult route overall. The Via Ferrata Gaetano Falcipieri is rated B/C, meaning minimal to moderate difficulty, but includes technically demanding sections, free climbing (up to grade II), and exposed areas. The Strada delle 52 Gallerie is a challenging and demanding hike due to its length, gradient, and dark, potentially slippery tunnels. Good fitness and some via ferrata experience are recommended.

For the Via Ferrata Gaetano Falcipieri, a complete via ferrata kit and helmet are essential. For the Strada delle 52 Gallerie, a headlamp is crucial for navigating the dark tunnels. Appropriate mountain equipment, including sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing, and sufficient water, is highly recommended for the entire route.

The estimated duration for completing this combined route, including both the Via Ferrata Gaetano Falcipieri and the Strada delle 52 Gallerie, is approximately 6 hours and 16 minutes of moving time. However, allow extra time for breaks, enjoying the views, and navigating the technical sections.

Due to the technical demands of the Via Ferrata Gaetano Falcipieri and the challenging nature of the Strada delle 52 Gallerie, this route is not generally recommended for beginners or young children. Some via ferrata experience and good physical fitness are required.

The Via Ferrata Gaetano Falcipieri is primarily a ridge-top route traversing five peaks. The terrain alternates between climbing sections and long walking passages, involving hiking and scrambling. You'll encounter steep and exposed sections, secured rock passages, a 15-meter vertical ladder, and an airy traverse, winding through beech forest and exposed rocky areas.

The Strada delle 52 Gallerie is a 6.5-kilometer military mule track featuring 52 tunnels carved into the rock, spanning 2.3 kilometers of its length. These tunnels, including the 320-meter long Spiral Tunnel No. 20, wind through deep gorges and offer breathtaking views. It's a masterpiece of WWI military engineering.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Via Ferrata Gaetano Falcipieri or the Strada delle 52 Gallerie in the Monte Pasubio area. However, always check local regulations before your visit, especially concerning parking fees at Bocchetta di Campiglia.

The best time to hike this route is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the weather is more stable and the trails are free of snow. Always check weather conditions before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.

While dogs are generally allowed on many hiking trails in the region, the technical nature of the Via Ferrata Gaetano Falcipieri and the dark, narrow tunnels of the Strada delle 52 Gallerie make this specific combined route unsuitable for most dogs. Consider alternative, less challenging routes if hiking with a dog.

It is generally recommended to ascend via the Via Ferrata Gaetano Falcipieri and then descend along the historic Strada delle 52 Gallerie. This creates a loop that combines the alpine challenge with historical exploration, bringing you back to Bocchetta di Campiglia.

Yes, the route offers numerous points of interest. On the Strada delle 52 Gallerie, you'll pass through the First Tunnel, the impressive Spiral Tunnel No. 20, and even a Cannon Emplacement in Tunnel. The Via Ferrata Gaetano Falcipieri provides panoramic views across the Val Leogra and Val Posina from its ridge-top sections.