Very rapid, technical and challenging descent of Mt. Varadega on cobblestone, dirt and mule track. It is the descent with the longest elevation gain in the entire Valtellina (1852 m) and is a popular destination for bikers because it passes over the Mortirolo Pass, a legendary climb of the Giro d’Italia. Great scenery and bright landscapes can be admired from Mount Varadega while larch forests, alpine pastures, huts and meadows accompany bikers along trails and mule tracks to Grosio.

Technical description:

1) THE RISE.
– FROM GROSIO – Public Weigh Garage (by car or bike): After crossing the village of Grosio, take the road on the right that climbs the 1,204 m elevation gain along 16.3 km to the Mortirolo Pass (2.30/3 hours).

-From MORTIROLO PASS: Pedal for 30 minutes on asphalt toAlpe Varadega (1,945 m asl). From here a military road, with a rough surface, climbs up steep sections and some hairpin bends to an elevation of 2,345 m where the ground becomes even rougher and stony (some pushing sections). You then reach an altitude of 2,500 m, located just below the Varadega Peak.
The climb is challenging and tiring, a prelude to the long and difficult descent.

2) THE DESCENT
FROM MOUNT VARADEGA TO GROSIO: 10.7 km (elevation gain: 1,852 m.)
The first section has narrow hairpin bends and a rocky bottom until the junction to the Cross de l’Alp Refuge. Entering the forest, the trail, though challenging, offers more smoothness although the continuous presence of hairpin bends makes one understand why the trail’s name was given.
When you reach Baiton (1,450 m asl), follow a dirt road for a short distance, then turn right and take a mule track down to Grosio.

Thanks to the Valtellina Terziere Superiore Tourist Consortium.

Length: 18 km
Height difference in ascent: 577 m
Height difference on descent: 1884 m
Highest point: 2508 m
Lowest point: 656 m
Type of surface: mixed

Municipality of departure: Grosio
Starting location: Grosio
Municipality of arrival: Grosio
Finish location: Grosio

Recommended period:
from May to September

Useful links
http://www.fivecrazydown.com/ http://www.fivecrazydown.com/
http://www.valtellinaturismo.com/