7 challenging stages from one mountain hut to the next, from the shores of the lake to 2000 m and above, touching on all of the peaks surrounding the northern shores of Lake Garda.
A crown formed of mountain peaks and a series of unforgettable views, taking you from the lake shore to over 2000 metres above sea level. A challenging trek full of thrills and surprises, and crowning it all, the return to the starting point by ferry.
The highest circuit of Garda Trek (Top Loop) is made up of 7 stages which can be done one after the other or on separate occasions and the treks can also be cut short if needs be. There are in fact a number of different options for getting back to Riva del Garda, either on foot or by public transport. During your hike along the Top Loop you can sleep either in mountain huts or in hotels in the valley, experiencing different kinds of accommodation.
As a rule, the Top Loop can be hiked from June to October, but it is always advisable to check whether or not there is still any snow before setting out.
Please note that the Top Loop is a very challenging hike, which requires training and alpine skills.
For information on the conditions along the trails and whether or not the mountain huts are open you can contact the local offices of the mountaineering association (SAT - Società Alpinisti Tridentini). In Garda Trentino there are clubs in Riva del Garda and Arco.
For more information on routes, services (guides, mountain huts, shops etc.) and hiking friendly accommodation: Garda Trentino - +39 0464 554444
This excursion is only recommended from June to mid-October.
Safety Tips
This information is subject to inevitable variations, so none of these 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, it is advisable to check environment and weather conditions before setting out.
The trek begins and ends in Riva del Garda and is entirely on SAT hiking trails which present no particular technical difficulties but can at times be exposed and therefore require experience and attention to safety. For details see the description of the individual stages:
The main towns in Garda Trentino - Riva del Garda, Arco, Torbole sul Garda, Nago – are connected by several urban and intercity bus lines which will take you to the starting point of tours or in the immediate surroundings.
You can also get to Riva del Garda and Torbole sul Garda by the public ferry service.
Up-to-date information on timetables and routes.
A22 motorway, exit: Rovereto Sud - Lago di Garda. Then SS240 in the direction of Riva del Garda.
Find out how to reach Garda Trentino.
Free parking near the former hospital (Via Rosmini).
Paid parking: Terme Romane (Viale Roma), Vecchia stazione (Largo Medaglie d’Oro), Ex-agraria (Via Lutti).
You need to wear the right clothing and take the proper gear when you go hiking in the mountains. Even on relatively short easy outings make sure to take all you need so you don't run into trouble if things take an unexpected turn, for example a storm blows up or you have a sudden drop in energy levels.
What should you take when you go on a hike?
Your rucksack (for a day trip a 25/30L capacity should do) should contain:
Make sure you're wearing the right footwear for the trail and season. The going can get rough and rocky underfoot and a pair of hiking boots will protect you from sprains. When wet, a grassy slope, rocky slab or steep trail can be dangerous unless you are wearing the proper footwear.
And finally... don't forget to bring your camera! You'll need it to capture the stunning views you come across all over Garda Trentino. And if you like, you can share your memories with us at #GardaTrentino.
Emergency telephone number 112.
