Colle Bettolina Lys Valley

Itinerary for fans of the Horror-Selvish genre. This is a challenging descent with several sections to be done with the bike and not on the bike. The trail in the upper part at times is not very evident. From the alpine pasture down it remains challenging but is doable all on the saddle even if exposed in places.

I started from Gressoney S.Jean, usual peaceful ride on the Queen trail and then on 15 to reach Trinitè, then along the Lys to and Biel and then Staffal on the Regional. The climb now becomes challenging, especially if you don't have a motor and battery as I had. If up to S.Anna you can pedal, the road that continues up to the Bettaforca pass is really up, so by E-bike you do it, with MTB you really have to be strong! Reached the pass you climb a little more until the 'arrival of the plant (possibility of refreshment).

Now follow the obvious path that leads towards the Sella hut. This is a stony trail with a few pieces that are still rideable (always with Ebikes) alternating with pushable sections. You first reach the Bettolina Inferiore pass (not very evident), if you want to continue as I did you will still have about 200 meters of elevation gain to get over 3000 and you will arrive at Bettolina Superiore.

Change gear and down the sassaia. Although it would not look like it up to the Lower col it is all done in the saddle without any major problems and is also fun. From the col, which as I said is not at all obvious so eye and GPS at the ready, the trail descends to the Lys. The initial section almost immediately involves a push section of about 20 meters. Then follows a doable but always toxic section amidst stones of all shapes and sizes, you have to aim for an obvious lake. After the lake there is finally a quiet section, it doesn't last long but is much appreciated, then difficult sections alternate, some off-limits to more potable.

You pass an old lodge, and from here on in the bottom changes for the better, on the other hand straight aerials because it is exposed, but at least you are in the saddle. When you reach the bottom of the valley you follow it on an obvious trail that, although not very easy, compared to the upper part you will feel like you are on the Salerno-Reggio Calabria.

Also this route confirms that the Lys Valley is just not very biker-friendly, in return you will be rewarded by a spectacular and lonely environment and by a descent that, with proper care and with the right preparation, will give you some good sensations.