Great War: Cima Nodice and the “Scala Santa” or Holy Stairs

Safety Tips

1. Choose itineraries that suit your physical and technical abilities. Collect information about the area you are visiting and the trail’s conditions and get a detailed trekking map.
2. Wear clothes and take equipment that suit the difficulty and length of your tour. Keep emergency gear in your rucksack, including first aid supplies.
3. Do not go walking alone in the mountains. In any case, tell someone where you are going and report back on returning.
4. Look at the weather forecast before setting off and always keep an eye on the weather.
5. In case of doubt, go back. It is better to give up than risk bad weather or face difficulties beyond your strength, ability and equipment.
6. Do not leave marked paths and do not take shortcuts.
7. All described walks are in a natural environment and therefore their use is at your own risk.

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.

Caution! The trails SAT 429 e 429A are classified EE, so only suitable for experienced hikers. 

On the "Scala Santa" or Holy Stairs there is a fixed rope to facilitate the ascent; the trail is fairly easy all the same and there is no need for ferrata gear.

From the church in Pregasina follow a short stretch of mule track southwards until you come to the first junction: here you turn off onto SAT 422 which heads up steeply through the woods. At the junction in Tof continue on SAT 429 until you come to the turn-off marked 429A. This stretch takes you towards the Scala Santa (where steps are cut directly into the rock) and the Nodice peak, a spectacular viewing point overlooking Lake Garda, Valle di Ledro and the surrounding peaks. Along the way you will come across what were once barracks and trenches during the First World War. Head back the way you came.

Pregasina is connected to Riva del Garda by the intercity bus line 214 (Riva - Pregasina - Bezzecca - Storo - Pieve di Bono). Unfortunately, bus runs are not frequent.

Up-to-date information on timetables and routes.

Pregasina is about 12 km from Riva del Garda. From Riva, follow directions for Valle di Ledro (strada statale 240). Shortly after you come out of the tunnel, you come to the turn-off for Pregasina on your left. 

Find out how to reach Garda Trentino.

Free parking near the church in Pregasina.

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:

• water canteen (1L)
• snacks (e.g. mixed dried fruit or chocolate)
• First aid kit
• windproof jacket
• fleece
• change of t-shirt and socks (in a plastic bag)
• make sure to wear or at least bring a pair of long trousers
• hat
• sun screen
• sunglasses
• gloves
• whistle to attract attention in an emergency

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.