Caltrano, Bocchetta Pau, sentiero 685

A nice, varied loop trail that leads from Caltrano to Bocchetta Paù, descends into the valley on trail 685, and then returns to the starting point via fun single track.

The climb begins at the cemetery in Caltrano. The first part alternates between dirt and concrete sections, with challenging inclines, until you reach the Costo forest road. Now the climb becomes gentler, still on dirt road, until you reach the last hairpin bend of the Cost road. From here you have to turn onto the asphalt road, always quite busy with cars and motorcycles. After about 2.6km, you leave the state road to turn right onto the former Piovene-Asiago railway, and then, via secondary roads with little traffic, paved and unpaved, you reach the entrance to path 661. This trail leads to Bocchetta Pau. It is all easy and rideable, except for a single landslide point that can be overcome with an up and down of rock steps by carrying your bike at your side. Be careful because in some places the trail is exposed.

When you reach Bocchetta Paù you can enjoy the beautiful view of the plain below and Summano in front. If the day is clear, the view ranges from the Berici Hills to the Euganean Hills, even reaching the Lagoon. At this point the trail plans to take the Foresters' Trail that leads to Malga Suino. This is a short section of about 0.6km, but it is the most difficult part of the trail. The trail is narrow, not rideable in places, and there is a last part, with a difference in elevation of about 90 meters, to be done uphill carrying your bike on your hip or shoulder. It is a tricky section but you are rewarded by the wild and special places you pass through. At the end of the Foresters' trail, you intercept the General's road that leads quickly to the Malga Suino.

Those who do not want to do this part of the trail can opt for the paved road that passes on the opposite side of Bocchetta Paù, take it to the right and you will meet the trail further on, just before Malga Suino. From this point the descent begins, between mule tracks and meadows until you cross trail 685. The 685 will lead almost to the valley floor. It is all doable in the saddle but requires attention because it has sections that are not easy, in S1 and S2. Finished the 685 begins an up and down the sigle track, very fun and without partcular difficulties, which leads back to the starting point.

The trail, although not long, needs good training and some technical base. In some places a heavy bike can put you in difficulty. Be careful on exposed sections.

I would like to point out that the evaluations expressed are purely subjective. Those who decide to do the route do so as a matter of free personal choice, aware of their abilities and assuming any responsibility.

Departure: Caltrano, parking lot in Via Venezia.