Palazzago, Linzone, Roncola (discesa infinita)

A beautiful all-mountain ride with excellent views from the Linzone area and an initial descent that’s definitely more technical than it might seem. The route starts in Palazzago and climbs past the Italcementi quarry. Passing through the quarry can be problematic on weekdays: although it’s generally tolerated, especially when riding in a group, it’s best to avoid operating hours and always check for any restrictions or signs posted on-site. Once past the quarry, the trail remains very rideable, allowing you to stay in the saddle almost the entire way to Croce del Linzone. From the top, the view opens up completely onto the plain and the surrounding mountains, and this is where the most interesting part of the ride begins.

Croce del Linzone – Roncola

From Croce del Linzone, descend toward Roncola.

The descent starts off fairly easy but quickly changes character and becomes significantly more technical.

The overall difficulty is aroundS3, but there are some S4 sections that require good technique and should not be underestimated.

The rocky surface also tends to become quite slippery when wet. It is therefore a descent that varies considerably depending on conditions, and I recommend tackling it after a dry spell.

In good conditions, it remains a technical yet fun and rideable descent.

Roncola - Return

From Roncola, the nature of the ride changes once again.

Following the trail, you continue on paths that are generally simpler and faster, with difficulty levels mostly S2/S3.

This section is much smoother than the descent from Linzone and allows for more continuous riding, alternating between fast stretches and a few short, more technical sections.

Toward the end, there are still a few slightly more challenging spots, but they don’t reach the level of continuous technical difficulty encountered on the first descent.

You then continue to lose elevation along the trail until you complete the return to Palazzago.

In summary

It’s a fairly compact all-mountain ride that’s almost entirely rideable on the ascent.

The most interesting part is undoubtedly the descent from Croce del Linzone toward Roncola, which should not be underestimated: mostly S3, with a few S4 sections and a rocky surface that can become very slippery when wet.

From Roncola onward, the route becomes faster and more enjoyable, mostly S2/S3, allowing you to finish the ride with a much smoother ride.

Technical Details

Trail Style: AM

MTB: Yes

E-MTB: Yes

Rideability (Ascent): Very high

Ascent difficulty: Always manageable

Croce del Linzone – Roncola: S3 with some S4 sections

From Roncola: mostly S2/S3

Exposure: No particularly significant sections

Drainage: Not particularly good; it’s best to wait for a dry spell

Terrain: Rocky in the upper section, smoother in the lower section