The descent proposed here has only recently been included in the official Garda Trentino MTB route network, and is used by both bikers and hikers. The path is well known to locals who love to challenge their technical abilities. But, as a result it’s known by more than one name. Also, due to its recent addition it has not yet been possible to work on, and improve the ridability of the terrain. The path is not heavily used and in some stretches it has obviously been neglected. There are alternate stretches of pronounced, stable rocks, steps, and sections on loose gravel. There is even an old tree trunk for you to hurdle over! Regarding the ascent: it develops over 9 km, of which around 5km are on asphalt - guiding you to various panoramic view points of Alto Garda. The average gradient is around 10%, which initially varies quite a lot. There are also some short cemented sections where the gradient reaches over 20%, to continue on at more of a constant.
BIKER’S CODE OF RESPONSIBILITY
ALWAYS WEAR YOUR HELMET !
Suggestions taken from NORBA and IMBA codes of conduct.
The information on this chart is subject to inevitable variations, so this means that none of the indications are absolute. It is not entirely possible to avoid giving inexact or imprecise information, given how quickly environmental and weather conditions can change. For this reason we decline any responsibility for changes which the user may encounter. In any case, the hiker is advised to check the conditions of the places, environment and weather before setting out.
The route starts in Arco, more specifically on the cycle path near to Caneve car park. Follow the directions to head into Arco - please note that the town itself has no route signage. However, it is easy to locate and reach the church in the town centre.
Once at the church, cross Piazza 3 Novembre, leaving the building directly behind you. Then, at the far left of the square - where Via Vergolano begins, immediately keep to the right, taking Via del Dosso. Follow the characteristic alleyway through an older part of Arco, and follow it up onto Via Stranfora. After passing a splendid fountain, climb up for a few meters more, then turn left to pass through an archway of the town’s ancient walls. Keep right here to climb past the entrance of the Arboretum of Arco - formerly Archduke Park, then turn left.
From the subsequent junctures you will find the signage for route 769, which leads you to cross the Olivaia di Arco - (Olive groves of Arco). Upon reaching the asphalt road to Padaro, keep right following it for about 5.5km. At the entrance to the town of Padaro you’ll find the last source of water for this ascent.
Once in Dos del Clef, leave the paved road to take the forest track which continues to climb in the opposite direction. After passing a barrier, continue to climb for another 2.5km towards Bocca di Tovo. At the entrance of path 409B, to your left you’ll find the beginning of the descent which, to start with, offers no particular challenge. Quite quickly however, you’ll find yourself facing the first of a long series of steep, loose stretches. The route - indicated by the signs, leads you to cross the forest road several times. And, eventually, you will once again meet the paved road to Padaro, where you should keep left, following it a few dozen metres uphill, to turn right - descending through the olive groves. The route signs lead you to pass through the village of Chiarano, to the main road, near the ‘Eremo’ nursing home. Keep left here and then continue straight, arriving into the centre of Arco: the route starting point.
The towns in Garda Trentino - Riva del Garda, Torbole sul Garda, Nago and Arco – are connected by a number of urban and intercity bus lines which will take you to the starting point of the trail. For up-to-the-minute information on timetables and routes: www.gardatrentino.it
Info about bike public transport: www.gardatrentino.it
To reach the beginning of the route and to return to the starting point, you will cross urban areas. Please pay attention to pedestrians and vehicular traffic.
Getting to northern Lake Garda / Garda Trentino: www.gardatrentino.it
Riding your bike requires specific clothing and equipment, even for relatively short and easy trips. It is always better to be prepared… e.g. for bad weather or a drop your energy levels. The unexpected things also make up a part of the fun!
Remember to throughly evaluate the type of route you plan to do, the locations you plan to cross and the current season. Has it been raining? Attention: The paths may be slippery and require more caution.
What do I need to bring on my bike tour?
It is always advised to let someone know where you plan to go and how long you expect to be.
Emergency telephone number 112
| Length | 29,0 km | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 h 55 min | |
| Ascent | 1.147 m |
| Length | 34,1 km | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 h 25 min | |
| Ascent | 1.038 m |
| Length | 9,4 km | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 h 35 min | |
| Ascent | 303 m |
| Length | 30,3 km | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3 h 17 min | |
| Ascent | 250 m |
