Alta via Bepi Zac

Overview

The Alta Via Bepi Zac is an atmospheric itinerary along the crest of the Monzoni Group, linking Passo Selle with Forcella Laghet in the province of Trento. Long walking stretches alternate with equipped and exposed sections. Difficulties are generally limited in the first part and greater in the second. Alongside its mountaineering interest, the route has considerable historical significance, passing numerous remains from the First World War.

Approach

The reference point is Passo di San Pellegrino (1907 m), on the road connecting Moena and Falcade. The approach can be shortened using the Passo delle Selle cable car, with parking near Hotel Monzoni. From the upper station, walk to Rifugio al Passo delle Selle, following a track through the meadows that branches off the main path. Allow about 45 minutes.

Alternatively, without the cable car, follow the well-marked CAI trail 604 from the pass. It climbs at a steady gradient to Ristorante Paradiso and then to the refuge where the Alta Via begins, taking about 1 h 30 min.

Via Ferrata

From Passo delle Selle, an important trail junction, follow the route south along the ridge among monuments and military structures from the First World War. It gains height quickly, with short stretches protected by steel cables, particularly useful on looser or slightly exposed ground.

Reach Piccolo Lastel and then Grande Lastel, viewpoints with no significant technical difficulties. Beyond them, the itinerary alternates descents and climbs along the crest, passing trenches, military walkways, footbridges and tunnels cut into the rock. Some passages require greater care, including short exposed traverses and a steep small gully leading to Cima Campagnaccia.

Descend from the summit to a scree saddle, where the first early return option is available. Then climb towards Cima Costabella, passing further wartime remains, including positions and tunnels. Continue over ladders, cable-assisted descents and short tunnel sections to Forcella Ciadin, which marks the end of the easier part of the Alta Via.

The second half is more demanding, with narrow ledges, short equipped walls, vertical stretches and unprotected ridge sections whose line is clear. A succession of climbs and descents leads to Forcella dell'Uomo, where it is possible to continue towards Cima Uomo or begin the final descent. The Alta Via ends at Forcella Laghet after a final steep, loose stretch with a short, more technical downclimbing passage.

Descent

There are two options from Forcella Laghet. The first descends south along the valley to Rifugio Fuciade, then returns to Passo di San Pellegrino on an easy walking trail. The second follows a more direct scree valley to the road on the valley floor, from which you walk back to the pass. Depending on the option chosen, the total time from the start of the Alta Via is between 5 h 45 min and 6 hours.

Useful Notes

The Alta Via Bepi Zac is a long, varied itinerary. Its generally moderate difficulties increase in the final part, where more exposed and demanding sections require sure-footedness and good stamina. Repeated climbs and descents make the cumulative ascent more demanding than it may appear. A torch can be useful in the tunnels. The route is not recommended in unsettled weather because it runs mainly along the ridge. The detour to Sasso di Costabella is particularly recommended for its historical interest and views.