Running on mountain tops, by the lake, in the woods or at the foot of imposing rock faces is a personal challenge. If you are looking for trail running routes that can test your limits, Ticino is the right place for you.
In Ticino you will find a staircase of more than 4,200 steps, paths just a step from the sky, paths with breathtaking differences in height.
Maps and trails
The most beautiful trail runs in Ticino
Trail Running
· Lugano
Scenic Trail
recommended route
Difficulty
difficult
closed
53.3 km
12:15 h
3,572 m
3,572 m
Spectacular and panoramic run along the ridges of Lugano, among breathtaking landscapes and unique views!
Trail Running
· Ascona-Locarno
Monte Gambarogno Trail
recommended route
Difficulty
T2
moderate
12.1 km
2:20 h
666 m
666 m
Trail around Monte Gambarogno with an unparalleled view of Lake Maggiore.
Trail Running
· Bellinzona and Valleys
Trail Run Ritom
recommended route
Difficulty
difficult
24.5 km
4:45 h
759 m
764 m
Starting from Lake Ritom, Val Piora offers a challenging trail running route away from the most frequented paths, surrounded by a spectacular and unspoilt Alpine landscape.
Trail Running
· Ascona-Locarno
Pizzo Leone Trail
recommended route
Difficulty
T2
difficult
31.7 km
8:00 h
2,031 m
2,031 m
Varied trail run from Losone to Pizzo Leone. Panoramic views, technical sections, and a relaxed cooldown along the Maggia.
Trail Running
· Ascona-Locarno
Gambarogno Trail
recommended route
Difficulty
moderate
closed
25.8 km
6:00 h
2,074 m
2,074 m
Trail Running
· Ascona-Locarno
Cardada-Mergoscia Trail
recommended route
Difficulty
T2
moderate
13.3 km
3:00 h
618 m
1,220 m
Alpine trail from Cardada to the summit of Cima della Trosa and down to Mergoscia – with breathtaking views, forests, and sunny alpine meadows.
Trail Running
· Ascona-Locarno
Locarno Trail
recommended route
Difficulty
T2
moderate
15.4 km
4:00 h
919 m
919 m
Beautiful, sunny panoramic route in the hills above Locarno. Thanks to the moderate altitude and southern exposure, the route is accessible year-round – with stunning views of Lake Maggiore.
Trail Running
· Ascona-Locarno
Lago d'Efra Trail
recommended route
Difficulty
T2
difficult
13.4 km
4:00 h
1,258 m
1,258 m
Up & down steep and technical with some stone steps leading to the discovery of the lake of the same name. A natural gem that can be partially frozen until late spring and lies slightly below Capanna Efra. From Capanna Efra, which stands on a large and sunny terrace and offers hikers accommodation and refreshment, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the valley floor and the surrounding peaks.
Trail Running
· Ascona-Locarno
Valle Verzasca Trail
recommended route
Difficulty
T2
moderate
24.3 km
5:00 h
1,070 m
465 m
The Valle Verzasca trail, although it appears to be a flat run at first glance, actually features a varied route characterized by numerous ups and downs. The route stretches from south to north following the river and its many refreshing pools. Not to be missed are the impressive Verzasca Dam and the Lavertezzo bridge, as well as the many picturesque villages and passages situated throughout the valley.


