Sertig pass + Epic Trail

This is a very challenging ride, both in terms of physical endurance and MTB riding and control, but it captures the true essence of our beloved sport. The ride is divided into three sections: the first is more alpine, with sections where you have to push the bike or carry it; the second is smoother but technically challenging in places; and finally, the third involves climbing a pass on paved road—because that’s part of what mountain biking is all about. We set off from Zuoz at 7 a.m., heading toward Val Susauna and taking the small trails to avoid the cantonal road; the valley is nothing short of magical and rarely visited by day-trippers. The trail climbs, at times quite steeply, up toAlp Funtauna, where a fun trail begins leading to the junction for Passo Sertig: rideable at first, then requiring pushing and carrying the bike, we reach the pass at 2,740 meters.

The descent begins with a technical trail over loose scree before becoming increasingly smooth and fun; we arrive at Sand, where we join the famous Epic Trail. This trail has become famous both because it offers the ultimate MTB experience, in my opinion, and because it has been split into two paths: one for hikers and one exclusively for bikes. Fantastic! 30 km of singletrack with sections that are sometimes smooth and sometimes more technical, but always incredibly satisfying.

Once we reach Filisur, we begin the long climb up the Albula Pass, then dive headfirst into the flow trail that will take us down to the valley floor at La Punt. All that’s left is to head back to Zuoz to celebrate the day with a nice glass of sparkling wine! We did this ride on XC bikes, but a trail bike or all-mountain bike would work just as well. If you’re worried you might not make it, you can always shorten the ride by taking the train from Davos Wiesen, Filisur, or Bergün.