Day 1 climbs from Gaino to the summit of Monte Pizzocolo (1,581 m), a natural balcony over the lake, and reaches the Rifugio Pirlo allo Spino. Day 2 follows the ridge past Monte Spino (1,504 m), Marmera and Monte Zingla (1,497 m), then descends to the Rifugio Giuseppe Granata. The last day closes the loop over Monte Pracalvis and Monte Alberelli, returning towards Pizzocolo and down to Gaino.
The trail alternates beech woods, high pastures and panoramic ridges, with wide views over Lake Garda. Supported by the Municipality of Toscolano Maderno and CAI Salò, it requires good fitness, hiking experience and proper mountain gear.
Author’s recommendation
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Safety information
This is a long, high mountain route for experienced hikers, with big daily ascents and descents, exposed ridge sections and long stretches far from roads. Weather can change quickly at altitude. Wear proper mountain boots, carry enough water and food, follow the waymarks and check the GPX at junctions. Do not go in poor visibility, snow or storms, and turn back if conditions worsen.Tips and suggestions
Best walked from late spring to autumn in stable weather. Split the loop over three days, using the Rifugio Pirlo allo Spino and the Rifugio Giuseppe Granata as overnight bases. Only for hikers with good fitness and mountain experience.Roadbook
Day 2. From the Rifugio Pirlo allo Spino, follow the ridge past Monte Spino (1,504 m) and Marmera up to Monte Zingla (1,497 m), then descend through Dosso di Mezzo to the Rifugio Giuseppe Granata, the second overnight stop.
Day 3. From the Rifugio Granata, continue over Monte Pracalvis and Monte Alberelli, then return towards Monte Pizzocolo and descend back to Gaino, closing the loop.
Check the GPX at junctions and follow local signs on site, especially where paths and forest roads meet.
Bivacco Due Aceri
Via Ferrata Ernesto Franco
Passo di Spino
Rifugio Giorgio Pirlo allo Spino
Via Ferrata Spigolo della Bandiera
Monte Spino
Public transport
Toscolano Maderno is served by regional buses along the western shore of Lake Garda. The trailhead at Gaino lies inland and above the town; check timetables and the final connection in advance, as public transport to the exact start may be limited.Get Timetable to destination
Directions
Reach Toscolano Maderno on the western shore of Lake Garda and drive up towards the hamlet of Gaino, above the town. The loop starts from this area, following the waymarked mountain paths.Parking
Use designated parking areas in Gaino or Toscolano Maderno where permitted. Do not park on private access roads, farm tracks or narrow residential streets. Check the exact trailhead and local parking rules before starting.Coordinates
Book recommendations for this region:
Recommended maps for this region:
Equipment
Mountain hiking boots, layered weather-appropriate clothing, rain and wind protection, enough water and food, sun protection, map or GPS, charged phone, headlamp; hut booking for the overnight stops.Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions