Malcesine Baldo Trail: Epic Mountain Trail Running Race in Lake Garda

 

Malcesine Baldo Trail: Epic Mountain Trail Running Race in Lake Garda

The Malcesine Baldo Trail is a premier trail running event held in Malcesine, a picturesque town on the eastern shore of Lake Garda in northern Italy. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, this race offers runners the unique opportunity to combine athletic challenge with unforgettable natural beauty.

Participants traverse a variety of trails that wind through the Monte Baldo mountains, famous for their dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and diverse flora. The course provides breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Garda, rolling hills, and the surrounding Alpine peaks, making it as much a feast for the eyes as it is a test of endurance and skill.

The trail is suitable for athletes of varying levels, with routes that include both challenging mountain climbs and gentler scenic stretches, allowing runners to experience the diverse terrain and natural wonders of the region. Along the way, participants can enjoy the fresh mountain air, vibrant wildlife, and the charm of historic Malcesine, adding a cultural element to the sporting experience.

Whether you are an experienced trail runner seeking a demanding challenge or a nature enthusiast looking to combine sport with spectacular scenery, the Malcesine Baldo Trail promises a memorable adventure that celebrates both athleticism and the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Garda.

Malcesine Baldo Trail: Routes and Challenges

The Malcesine Baldo Trail features a route that varies from year to year, offering multiple distance options to accommodate runners of different skill levels and preferences. Typically, participants can choose from distances ranging from 10 kilometers for shorter, more accessible runs, up to 60 kilometers for ultra-trail enthusiasts. Regardless of the distance, all routes present significant elevation changes, technical terrain, and a true mountain challenge.

Runners navigating the trail will encounter steep climbs, demanding descents, and narrow, winding paths that follow the slopes of Monte Baldo, the majestic mountain range towering above Malcesine. The combination of rocky trails, forested sections, and panoramic viewpoints not only tests physical endurance but also requires technical running skills, agility, and careful attention to footing.

This event is an excellent opportunity for trail running enthusiasts to push their limits, develop both strength and endurance, and test their abilities in a spectacular natural environment. Beyond the competitive aspect, the Malcesine Baldo Trail also fosters a friendly and supportive atmosphere, where runners can connect with fellow athletes, share experiences, and celebrate the spirit of trail running together.

For those planning to participate, it’s important to note that specific route details, distances, and participation requirements may change each year. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official Malcesine Baldo Trail website or contact the event organizers directly. This ensures you have all the necessary details on course maps, elevation profiles, registration, and logistical arrangements.

Whether you are seeking a challenging mountain race or a scenic trail adventure, the Malcesine Baldo Trail offers a unique combination of athletic challenge, breathtaking scenery, and a vibrant community of trail runners.

Malcesine Baldo Trail – 50K Ultra

The Malcesine Baldo Trail – 50K Ultra is a challenging and spectacular race designed for trail running enthusiasts and mountain sports lovers. Set against the stunning backdrop of Monte Baldo and the shores of Lake Garda, this race combines athletic endurance with breathtaking natural scenery. The circular course starts and finishes in the lakeside town of Malcesine and features over 3,000 meters of elevation gain, making it a true test of stamina, technique, and determination.

Race Overview

The first 9 kilometers of the 50K Ultra are shared with the 24K race. Runners begin with a short stretch on asphalt before leaving the town center to tackle a gradual climb along panoramic paths, including cart tracks, dirt roads, and single tracks winding through chestnut and oak forests.

At the ninth kilometer, near Bocca di Navene (1,420 meters above sea level), runners reach the first refreshment point and the first time control checkpoint. From here, the route opens to expansive views of the eastern side of Monte Baldo, offering a striking contrast of forested slopes and open alpine scenery.

Monte Altissimo and the Alpine Highs

Continuing north along single tracks, competitors approach Monte Altissimo, where the tree line begins to thin above 1,700 meters, giving way to meadows and rocky open spaces. At the thirteenth kilometer, near the Altissimo Refuge, runners reach the second refreshment point and the highest elevation of the course, 2,060 meters above sea level.

From the summit, the course turns south along the eastern side of Monte Baldo, a section noted for its distinct morphological and climatic diversity compared to the western slopes. The terrain here becomes more runnable, with rolling ups and downs that allow athletes to increase pace while enjoying panoramic views of Corna Piana and the surrounding alpine meadows.

Mid-Race Sections and Refueling Points

At the 21st kilometer, runners reach the Fos-Ce Refuge, the third refreshment point. The route then alternates between cart tracks and single tracks for the next 9 kilometers, descending approximately 300 meters toward the Madonna della Neve area, which is dotted with mountain huts and pastures. This section provides both scenic beauty and a chance to recover briefly before the next climb.

From the 31st kilometer, the route begins to climb gradually again toward Prà Alpesina (1,450 meters above sea level). Competitors then face a steep 2-kilometer single-track ascent, returning to the summit of Monte Baldo at the cable car station, where the fifth refreshment point and third time control checkpoint are located.

The Descent to Malcesine

The final segment is a technical descent through coniferous and beech forests, dropping approximately 1,000 meters over 7 kilometers. Runners pass Malga Fiabio, which hosts a refreshment station, before reaching the “coastal strip of the Ulivo”, where the trail transitions to cart tracks and paths leading back to Malcesine. The final 2 kilometers take place on cobblestones and asphalt in the historic town center, marking the finish of a truly epic race.

Experience and Highlights

The Malcesine Baldo Trail – 50K Ultra is much more than a race. It is a complete mountain adventure, offering:

• Challenging climbs and technical descents that test both physical and mental endurance
• Spectacular panoramic views of Lake Garda, alpine meadows, and Monte Baldo peaks
• Multiple refreshment points and time checkpoints to support runners throughout the course
• A chance to experience the unique atmosphere of trail running, combining athletic achievement with natural beauty

For trail running enthusiasts, this race represents a unique opportunity to push limits, enjoy the thrill of the mountains, and immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of Monte Baldo.