Stelvio Pass off-piste and off-road
An epic Italian mountain adventure
Alex & Teo
We all know the Stelvio Pass, of course we do! However, did you know that there are a series of tracks and unpaved roads that lead to and from this legendary Italian summit, on the border with Switzerland. Yes, once you set off from Bormio, along the aptly named ‘Via Stelvio’, you are set for an epic adventure.
After 3.2 km, the road continues upwards, yes. However, off to the left is a track that leads into the lower trees and mountain tracks. You can either take this as a gravel bike ascent of the Stelvio, or descend it on your gravel bike after climbing the main pass. As an extreme alternative, get dropped off at the summit and ride down this old mountain pass, off-road on a mountaon bike adventure into Bormio! The choice is yours, and we have gpx files for either option. Alex and Teo did a climb of the main pass road recently, alongside the awesome mountain bike descent, whilst travelling through Switzerland and Italy.
Anyway, we’ve mapped out the route for you to share in their adventure – so, off you go!
Route Information
Stats: 46 km 2,000 metres
Refreshments & Where to Stay: Bormio is a well practised place for cycling tourists to stay, and has everything. At the top of the pass, you’ll find places to eat, drink and rest before descending.
Rifugio Ristoro Solena also provides a great option for meals and maybe a stay, as you descend towards the Lago de Cancano in the valley.
Character: Tough and steep, with a technical descent. Do not tackle if your actual fitness and skill level is not up to this. However, if you’re ready for the adventure, it is an epic ride!
Route
The Stelvio Pass is a route that needs no introduction. However. are you aware that old mountain tracks and military roads lead you off-piste and off-road from and to this epic cycling challenge and summit. Yes, from just a few km outside of Bormio, the road is joined by tracks and unpaved roads that can either take you on an epic gravel or mtb ascent, or conversely, an epic gravel bike descent from the Stelvio summit.
- From Bormio, follow the masses and take the road to the Stelvio Pass, as it climbs majestically. At the 3.2 km point, if you’re looking to climb the gravel bike ascent, then head off to the left on the signed tracks.
- Several signs are on a post here, including a red square with a white painted bike and rider. Descend this and now follow your gpx file carefully.
- Alternatively, if you’re ascending the road, just stay on the road and climb… and climb! after 24 km off-road and 18 km on-road, you’ll reach the summit!
Descent route off-road
- If you are taking the gravel or mountain bike descent, then the tracks begin just behind the hotel and restaurant Genziana at the summit. Take your time on the inital stages, and take in the epic history of these trails.
- The Umbria Pass is crossed by the track on your way down/ up, and once crossed, the tricky descent heads down with awesome scenery all around you.
- The higher track is a good surface, but then leads to steep and technical sections. Take care on these and ride/walk to your abilities.
Rifugio Ristoro Solena
As the gravel tracks lead down to the Lago de Cancano, you meet the Rifugio Ristoro Solena, where booking in advance or luck can provide you with a magical nights stay by this beautiful mountain lake, before heading back to the road and into Bormio.
All that’s left now is to eat and replenish your energy, and take in this amazing area of Italy, before planning your next mountain adventure!
Click below for GPX files
Download GPX
Gravel Ascent
Download GPX
Mixed Route full
