5.0
(1)
5
hikers
04:43
12.0km
900m
Hiking
Hike the difficult Scala Piana Trail (via Route 487) in Stelvio National Park, covering 7.4 miles with 2964 feet of elevation gain.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
7.19 km
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
8.12 km
Highlight • Viewpoint
12.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.27 km
2.67 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
12.0 km
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (1,640 m)
Lowest point (950 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 29 May
22°C
7°C
14 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
This trail is officially rated as difficult. It features unpaved mountain terrain and a significant elevation gain of approximately 900 meters over its 12-kilometer length, making it challenging for hikers.
The trail is accessed via Route 487. While specific parking details aren't provided, hikers typically find access points along this route. It's advisable to research local parking options or public transport connections to the trailhead before your visit.
Along the route, you'll encounter traditional stone buildings, alpine meadows, and stunning vistas. Key viewpoints include Scala Piana itself, offering panoramic views, and View of Rovina, which provides expansive vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trail also passes ancient stone buildings with historical and cultural significance.
Given its 'difficult' rating, significant elevation gain, and unpaved mountain terrain, the Scala Piana Trail is not recommended for beginners or young children. It requires a good level of fitness and hiking experience.
While many trails in the Italian Alps are dog-friendly, specific regulations for this particular route are not detailed. As the trail is located within Stelvio National Park, it's best to check the park's official guidelines regarding dogs, especially leash requirements and restricted areas, to ensure a smooth hike for you and your pet.
The best time to hike the Scala Piana Trail is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (roughly June to September), when the weather is more stable and the alpine meadows are in full bloom. Winter hiking would present significant challenges due to snow and ice, requiring specialized equipment and experience.
The Scala Piana Trail is part of the extensive Sentiero Italia CAI network. Generally, access to hiking trails within Stelvio National Park does not require a specific permit or entrance fee for hiking itself. However, certain activities or facilities within the park might have associated costs. It's always a good idea to check the official Stelvio National Park website for the most current regulations and any potential fees for specific services or areas.
Yes, the trail is rich in history and culture. It winds past ancient stone buildings that offer a glimpse into the lives of generations who lived in these mountains. Local folklore also speaks of the 'Witches of Scala,' a tale associated with the Scala Piana area, adding a mystical element to your journey.
Yes, the trail integrates with other numbered routes, specifically 481 and 519. This connectivity makes it part of a larger, extensive trail network that is crucial for sustainable mountain tourism in the region.
Given the trail's difficult rating and unpaved mountain terrain, you should bring sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, appropriate layers of clothing for changing alpine weather, plenty of water, snacks, a map or GPS device, and sun protection. Trekking poles are highly recommended for stability on steep or uneven sections.
The Scala Piana Trail (via Route 487) is typically described as a challenging hiking route rather than a loop. While it connects with other trails, the primary route via 487 is generally considered an out-and-back or a segment of a longer point-to-point journey, depending on your planned itinerary.