Sentiero Attrezzato Sperone del Crocefisso

Overview

A short route accessible to everyone, perfect for a first taste of via ferrata terrain or a family outing. The itinerary culminates in an equipped section that leads to the summit of an emblematic rocky spur, the Sperone del Crocefisso, on the slopes of Monte Maddalena in the Brescian Prealps. The absence of significant technical difficulties and the modest elevation make it a viable destination in any season.

The route unfolds along a well-defined limestone spur that detaches from the main slope, forming a compact and prominent structure. The path maintains a predominantly hiking character, with the short final section gradually introducing the use of gear. The environment is typical of the Prealps, with erosion-sculpted rock forming ledges and small walls, offering a panoramic experience disproportionate to the effort required.

Approach

The starting point is the parking area near the Ristorante al Grillo, on Via della Maddalena in Brescia. This is a narrow road that continues beyond the Trattoria Alpino. From here, take the CAI trail that leads to the old Rifugio della Maddalena. Continuing toward the radio repeaters on Monte Denno, follow the white-and-blue markings of the "Tre Valli Bresciane" (3V) trail. After a left turn on a short paved section, a descent leads to the junction known as El Golet. A sign indicates the Sentiero della Gambasse to the right, heading toward the Guglie di S.Gallo. Turning right again onto the Sentiero per Campana, you reach the base of the Sperone del Crocefisso in about thirty minutes, where the ferrata begins.

The approach follows a well-marked trail that crosses a wooded slope, with moderate gradients and some ups and downs. The pace is steady, allowing a gradual approach to the rocky environment. The morphology is classic limestone Prealps, with the trail often running along natural ledges before entering the grassy basin at the base of the spur.

Via Ferrata

The equipped section features a logical and well-designed progression. It begins by tackling a series of steps made with wooden stakes, of low difficulty. After these, you traverse an inclined rock ramp, constantly secured by a steel cable. Turning left, you quickly arrive at the base of an inclined metal ladder, to be climbed with caution. The final section, more vertical and exposed, leads directly to the top of the spur. The summit is marked by the presence of a bell that you can ring to celebrate your arrival. The ferrata takes about ten minutes, for a total of forty minutes from the start of the hike.

The rocky structure of the spur imposes a zig-zag route that exploits the lines of least resistance, alternating short vertical sections with horizontal stretches on ledges. The exposure is limited until the metal ladder, after which it becomes more pronounced, offering a sense of open space without ever becoming demanding. The pace is sustained and continuous, with no forced stops, in an open and highly panoramic environment from the very first meters.

Descent

The descent follows the same route as the ascent. From the highest point of the Sperone del Crocefisso, retrace the equipped trail and the approach path in reverse until you reach the parking area. This return leg takes about forty-five minutes, bringing the total duration of the itinerary to approximately one hour and thirty minutes.

Retreating along the equipped section requires attention in finding handholds and managing the cable, but the moderate incline of most of the route makes it manageable. The pace on the descent is more relaxed, allowing you to fully enjoy the view of the plain and surrounding hills. Repeating the approach path, now in reverse, confirms the hiking nature of the entire outing.

Useful Notes

This equipped trail represents an ideal introduction to the world of via ferratas, free of complex technical passages. Its location in the Brescian Prealps, at low altitude, allows for use practically any time of year. For navigation, it is advisable to equip yourself with a detailed map of the area, such as the one dedicated to the Parco delle Colline di Brescia. For those wishing to extend their experience in the area, there are numerous other itineraries of similar difficulty, such as the Sentiero Attrezzato delle Cascate or the Sentiero Attrezzato Filippo Benedetti, or more challenging via ferratas like the Ferrata Caspai or the Ferrata Nasego.

The character of the itinerary is predominantly scenic and educational, designed to build familiarity with the gear in a safe context. The brevity and continuity of the route make it an excellent testing ground, where the technical aspect is secondary to the pleasure of climbing and discovering an accessible rocky environment.