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Ponale Gravel Tour

Riva del Garda, Ledro

Category

Difficulty

Intermediate

Duration

2:45

Duration in hours

Distance

14.4

Distance in km

Status

closed

Suggested period

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

GPX download

Description Details Turn-by-turn directions How to get there Equipment Reports and closures

From Riva del Garda to Pregasina, embark on a captivating cycling tour along the lakeshore with stunning views.

Formerly known as the “Old Ponale Trail”, this route served as the sole connection between Riva del Garda and Ledro Valley until 1992. Dedicated to its visionary creator, Giacomo Cis, it was closed to vehicles in 1995 and reopened as a scenic trail in 2004.

Beyond the bridge spanning the deep Ponale Torrent gorge, the ascent towards Pregasina begins. This second stretch is entirely paved, allowing access to both pedestrians and cyclists, leading up to the Madonna Statue.

For the descent, you take the same path as the ascent, except for a brief alternative section after leaving Pregasina. This deviation comprises steep cemented slopes, but it can be comfortably avoided by sticking to the route used to ascend.

The trail's terrain and inclines make it accessible to all.

Ponale Gravel

Marco Giacomello, Garda Trentino

Ponale Gravel

Marco Giacomello, Garda Trentino

Ponale Gravel

Marco Giacomello, Garda Trentino

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Further information and useful links

Love getting lost between gravel tracks and quiet backroads? You’ll find more than just support here – you’ll find people who can make every ride even better. Discover gravel specialists ready to help with tips, rentals, repairs and more.

details

Scenic
Geological highlights
Out and back
Refreshment stops available
Cultural/historical interest

Route info

Intermediate

Route number

Distance

14,4 km

Duration

2 h 45 min

Altitude difference (+)

858 m

Altitude difference (-)

858 m

Technical skills

Physical effort

Scenary

Highest point

536 m

Lowest point

65 m

Suggestions

An intriguing sight along the Ponale Trail, visible through the gates inside the third tunnel, is the Tagliata—a remarkable Austrian fortification entirely carved into the mountain.

Safety guidelines

It is quite difficult to identify the suggested route without using a navigation system to follow the gpx track provided.

Safety Tips

Always wear your helmet.
Plan your ride.
Obey the road signs, stop at traffic lights and do not ride on the wrong side of the road.
You share the trail with other users. Yield right of way to hikers.
Respect public and private property.
Do not cycle solo in remote areas.
Make sure your bike lights are working.

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.

Punto di partenza

Riva del Garda

Directions

This renowned route is easily recognizable, starting from Piazza III Novembre in the heart of Riva del Garda. Following the lakeshore, you head south, crossing the pedestrian and cycling path that guides you to the entrance of the Ponale Trail. The trail's entrance is situated near the first tunnel on the Gardesana road towards Limone. Once on the trail, simply follow it, taking in the breathtaking scenery as you pedal along. At the end of the dirt section, shortly after passing a refreshment point, stay left and continue the ascent towards Pregasina. Upon reaching the end of the car-free section, the main road awaits at the tunnel entrance. Stay left at this point, continuing on the main road and ascending further until you reach the church that overlooks the quaint village of Pregasina. For the descent, we recommend following the same route back down hill, with the exception of a short segment. To take the short detour, proceed straight at the first right hairpin turn after leaving the village. Note that this alternative route is mostly cemented and features steep hills. If you prefer to avoid significant slopes, can can stick to the route used to ascend.

public transportation

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.

How to get there

A22 motorway, exit: Rovereto Sud - Lake Garda. Then SS240 in the direction of Riva del Garda.

Find out how to reach Garda Trentino.

Where to park

Parking near the former hospital (Via Rosmini) or the former cemetery (Viale Damiano Chiesa).

Paid parking: Terme Romane (Viale Roma), Vecchia stazione (Largo Medaglie d’Oro), Ex-agraria (Via Lutti), Area ex-Cattoi (Viale Rovereto).

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 sudden drop in your energy levels. The unexpected things are part of the fun!

Remember to thoroughly evaluate the type of route you plan on doing, the locations you intend 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?

An adequate water supply according to your needs (considering temperature, possibility of refuelling and duration of the route)

Plenty of snacks (for example, dried fruit or energy bars)

Waterproof / Windproof jacket

A spare top / spare socks (Descending in a sweaty garment, will make you cold).

Suncream

Sunglasses

Bike gloves/mitts

Map or GPS device

Bike lights: best placed on your helmet or handlebars. (It is always best to be prepared)

Bike repair kit for punctures and mechanical breakdowns

First aid kit

Emergency whistle

It is always advised to let someone know where you plan to go and how long you expect to be.

Emergency telephone number 112.

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Duration	3 h 15 min
Altitude difference (+)	584 m
Altitude difference (-)	550 m
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Altitude difference (-)	912 m
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Altitude difference (-)	475 m
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Altitude difference (-)	480 m
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Altitude difference (-)	1.744 m
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Altitude difference (+)	575 m
Altitude difference (-)	575 m
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