Nestled among the iconic Passo dello Stelvio and Passo Gavia, the ascent to Rifugio Forni offers breathtaking views of the stunning Valle dei Forni, renowned for its magnificent glacier and towering peaks. This area is a favored spot for mountaineering and ski touring enthusiasts. However, the reward of such splendid vistas comes at the cost of a particularly challenging climb from Santa Caterina Valfurva to the summit. The route spans 5.5 km, featuring several lengthy stretches with gradients reaching up to 20%. It’s a climb that necessitates the use of your lowest gears.

This climb is exclusively a cul-de-sac for road cyclists, meaning that after a well-earned rest at Rifugio Forni, you’ll need to retrace your steps back to Santa Caterina, where you can turn left for Passo Gavia or right to go down to Bormio. Caution is advised on the descent; the road is not only narrow but also suffers from poor pavement conditions, demanding careful navigation.