Ferrata del Somator

Overview

The Ferrata del Somator is a pleasant loop route that winds along the southern slope of Monte Bielsa, in the Prealpi Gardesane sector between Rovereto and Riva del Garda. It is an introductory route, with a few rocky steps equipped with stirrups and rungs to aid progression. Its low technical difficulty and lack of exposed sections make it ideal for families or for a first approach to the world of via ferratas. The route unfolds mainly along ledges and easy grassy slopes, offering a continuous and never stressful experience where the panoramic element prevails over the athletic one.

Approach

The starting point is the parking lot of the Ristorante Pizzeria La Baita, located between Ronzo-Chienis and Castellano, in the province of Trento. Take the paved road eastward, following the CAI trail marker 671. The climb is moderate; ignore the first junction to the left for the Sentiero Attrezzato de le Laste (still trail 671), which will be used on the return. Shortly beyond, several tracks branch off to the right. For a short detour, trail 642 leads to the Rifugio Malga Somator. For direct access to the ferrata, it is advisable to take one of the first tracks to the right, which climb more steeply and join, in a few minutes, with trail 673. This point marks the actual start of the Sentiero del Somator and is reached in about 30 minutes from the parking lot. The approach takes place in an open forest environment, with stable ground and a well-marked path, gradually preparing you for the rocky terrain ahead.

Via Ferrata

The route maintains very low difficulty. The trail, at times narrow and carved into the limestone rock, is equipped with steel cables on the steeper sections, and features a couple of easy vertical steps and a short gully, all easily manageable with the aid of the stirrups. The rock is compact and well-shaped, with the progression unfolding along a long, sloping ledge, offering security and continuity. After these short sections, the trail continues easily over gentler terrain, offering views of nearby Monte Biaena and wide panoramas of Lake Garda. The altitude of 1617 meters above sea level is reached in about 1 hour and 30 minutes from the parking lot. The itinerary is predominantly horizontal, with minimal ups and downs, and stands out for its scenic and accessible character, where the equipment serves more as psychological security than technical necessity.

Descent

For the return, descend from the eastern side following the track of trail 671. After about ten minutes, you reach a junction: ignore trail 678 that branches off to the left and continue straight into the forest. Even on the descent, you will encounter a few short equipped sections with cable, on grassy or rocky slopes, but always easy to handle. The trail, developing in a helical pattern, then emerges onto a dirt road that leads back to the junction encountered during the ascent. From here, return to the parking lot by retracing the initial section. The total time for the entire loop is about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The descent is quick and straightforward, with a steady pace that allows you to maintain good speed without any particular technical demands.

Useful Notes

Despite the name suggesting a greater challenge, the ascent of Monte Biaena via the Ferrata del Somator is an easy route suitable for beginners. For navigation, it is recommended to use detailed maps of the area, such as those dedicated to Alto Garda and Valle di Ledro, Valle dei Laghi and Alto Sarca, or Pasubio and Vallagarina. The Lake Garda region offers numerous other similar proposals in terms of type and difficulty, including the Ferrata Rio Sallagoni, the Ferrata Colodri in Arco, the Sentiero delle Cavre, the Ferrata Susatti at Cima Capi, and the Ferrata dell'Amicizia at Cima Sat. For more experienced hikers, more challenging options are available, such as the Ferrata Marangoni in Mori, the Ferrata Rio Secco near Cadino, the Ferrata alla Cascata del Rio Ruzza in Fiavé, or the Ferrata Artpinistica in Preore. The route confirms itself as an excellent training ground for beginners, where the open environment and unobstructed terrain help build confidence with the equipment and basic rock movements.