Piz Umbrail

Piz Umbrail is one of the most famous hike-a-bikes in the Alps. The combination of relatively easy access, super beautiful landscape, summit joy and fantastic downhill trail is most attractive. The extensive (social) media coverage boosted its popularity also. So likely you won´t have to do this venture alone…

Most people will start this tour in Sta. Maria in the Val Müstair where the “Postauto” shuttle leaves early in the morning. We strongly recommend booking your seat in advance, especially on weekends. Once the bikes are loaded onto the trailer the journey begins… You can either take an extra nap or enjoy the spectacular drive through many hairpin bends up to Pass Umbrail. These postauto-drivers sure know their vehicles!

The real tour start is at the old customs facilities at Pass Umbrail. 500 meters uphill to the peak… Most will push their bike along the east side of Piz Umbrail before the terrain becomes loose and too steep. For the last 200 meters the bike will end up on your shoulders. This final section includes short climbing sections which are partially secured by chains. This is only for the sure-footed and there is no room for error! A bike carrying aid may be useful to keep your hands free… Eventually you´ll get to the top. Find yourself a spot, have a second breakfast and enjoy the breathtaking views on the Ortles region and into Val Müstair.

Not only the landscape but also the trail looks amazing! From the top you can see the biggest part of the downhill to beautiful Lai da Rims 600 meters below. The ride starts on loose gravel with a few switchbacks – surprisingly flowy for this altitude. Some places require delicate braking, leave no traces! A little lower down towards the lake the trail opens and you´ll find less switchbacks, the gravel remains however. If you like do a stop and “refuel” at Lai da Rims, it is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Switzerland after all! The extra energy comes in handy shortly after the lake when the terrain becomes steeper and the switchbacks become tighter. This is the most technical and challenging part! When you get to the treeline the trail becomes easier again and transforms into a fast-flow-fun joyride. You´ll arrive at a forest road soon, make sure to stay on the trail which shortcuts the latter. Sadly you cannot completely avoid the road and the trail ends at “Tschuccai”. Fortunately the “grand final” is yet to come! Follow the forest road until you see the friendly man with a hat… Here is the start to the fantastic trail down to Sta. Maria. Roots, rocks, loam and beautiful corners. An extatic final to one of the regions super-rides!