Your Guide to Hiking the Strada Delle 52 Galleries

The Strada Delle 52 Galleries is a hike that will leave you in awe, offering numerous opportunities to learn about the Italian front of World War I. This happens to be one of many hikes that are near Vicenza, Italy, and pretty easy to get to.

I first discovered this hike through our local Adventure and Hiking group here in Vicenza. I knew immediately that I had to experience the Strada Delle 52 Galleries. It presented an incredible challenge and, more importantly, it provided an opportunity for me to explore more of the Veneto region and all the hikes it had to offer, while gaining a deeper understanding of the area’s history

You can read about my personal experience at the bottom! Enjoy this Guide to the Strada delle 52 Galleries

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Why I Love The Strada Delle 52 Galleries

In a nutshell, the views, the history, and the thrill of a challenge.

You can do the Strada delle 52 Galleries hike solo, with that being said be safe and let someone know where you are and how long you will be out hiking. Always turn around if you feel unsafe.

As you journey along the path, you’ll encounter various signs that honor the history of this road and the hardships endured by the 33rd Mining Company during its construction. Indeed, it’s truly a walk through history!

I am not going to lie, there were parts of this hike that freaked me out. For instance, Tunnels 19 and 20 were incredibly long, and I got a little hesitant to continue; however, I did. It paid off in so many ways as I hiked this Military Mule road.

I hiked the Strada Delle 52 Galleries in late April and late October. April I was prepping for the Alta Via 2 and I needed to train in higher elevations so I thought I could give the 52 tunnels a go.

In October after a lengthy bout of rain, I decided to head on out to Val de Pasubio and give it another go, mostly because I wanted drone shots. As I came up above the clouds, the view was magnificent.

Mental Fortitude

In April, I left the house on a seemingly clear day and the weather started to get worse as I went through the tunnels. To my dismay, there was still ice and snow up on the pass at about tunnel 30, so I scratched my efforts and went back down. It got incredibly spooky up there alone in that weather.

This past October I was finally able to complete the trail and the Strada Delle 52 Galleries is a treat during the fall!

Small Children and Dogs on the Strada Delle 52 Galleries

Before you read on, I get asked if the 52 Galleries is kid-friendly. I DO NOT think small kids could handle this, but older kids could take on the challenge. My nephew did not like the hike once we got past a certain point as there were too many tunnels for him.

Additionally, people have asked me “Hey is the Strada Delle 52 Galleries Dog Friendly?” I’ve seen dogs out on the trail, but I would not bring my dogs as there were too many ledges and I would feel unsafe with my dog on this trail. Often you’ll see dogs off leash here in Italy, I personally would not do this (liability reasons) but to each their own.

If you do bring your dogs with you to the Strada Delle 52 Galleries, please note that a leash is required.

The History of Strada Delle 52 Galleries

The Strada Delle 52 Galleries or Road of 52 Tunnels is a remarkable military mule road built during World War 1 on the Pasubio massif in the Veneto region of Italy. This road was constructed by the kingdom of Italy during World War I by Lieutenant Joseph Zappa.

It was a strategic frontline assisting in supply transfer and facilitating communication from the base of the summit area of Mount Pasubio. The road was built with remarkable speed by the 33rd Mining Company of the 5th Regiment of the Italian Army.

In the winter of 1917, Lieutenant Engineer Giuseppe Zappa stood atop snow-clad Mount Pasubio, His mission? To assess the feasibility of an audacious project: carving a secret trail through the treacherous picolo Dolomite terrain. This clandestine path would wind its way from Forni Alti, traverse the Fontana d’Or pass, and ultimately reach the Porte del Pasubio while remaining hidden from enemy eyes.

The result? The Strada delle 52 Gallerie! It is a military engineering marvel that defied nature and adversity. Conceived by the visionary Captain L. Motti and meticulously designed by Lieutenant Engineer G. Zappa, this winding road of 52 tunnels remains a testament to human determination and boldness. As you tread its historic path, imagine the mules, soldiers, and secrets that once echoed through these rocky galleries.

Sometimes I can’t believe the determination of these brave men and what they did during these times. It’s something you have to see for yourself!

Parking & How to Get to Strada Delle 52 Galleries

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Parking for the Strada Delle 52 Galleries is 6 euros for 24 hours there are parking meters on both the lower and upper parking lots.

If you are driving to the trailhead, keep in mind the road to the parking lot is NARROW and two-way so please be aware of this and drive slowly.

This hike is a perfect day hike from Vicenza, but if you are coming from other areas of Italy here are the distances and time it takes to get to the Parking lot.

• Venice 1:35 Minutes/ 125 KM
• Verona 1:46 Minutes/ 104 KM
• Milano 3:21 Minutes/ 252 KM
• Innsbruck 3:19 Minutes / 240 KM

When driving to the Strada Delle 52 Galleries, google will send you every direction. My favorite way to get to the parking lot of the Strada Delle 52 Galleries is to come from Vicenza to Schio and then up to Santa Caterina. The road you are on is called Strada Pra Lungo. You’ll keep going down this very narrow road and pass Monumento Dei Caduti di Vallortigara, which is a World War 1 Monument, this road will take you to Passo Xomo.

Where to Stay Near Strada Delle 52 Galleries

I am a partner with Stay 22, here is an interactive map of hotels that are nearby, this is an Affiliate Link

Which Season Should You Hike Strada Delle 52 Galleries?

The seasons in the area have been a little bit different than in the recent past. So it’s best to always check the weather. I use 3BMeteo to check the weather when I go anywhere as Apple Weather has failed me in more ways than one.

Late Spring

As the snow melts, the Strada delle 52 Gallerie emerges from its hiatus. The trail becomes accessible, and hikers can enjoy crisp air and blooming alpine flora. Be prepared for some residual snow patches at higher elevations that may send you back down the mountain.

Pack plenty of layers and be prepared for slippery rocks.

Summer (July/August)

Summer is prime hiking season. The trail is snow-free, and the weather is pleasant. The tunnels provide welcome shade, and the views of the pre-Dolomiti are breathtaking. Carry sufficient water and sun protection, as the sun can be intense. Slather yourself in SPF, you’ll thank me later!

You’ll find more people on the trails during the weekends so take advantage of the weekdays and explore this beautiful area.

Early Autumn (September)

September brings cooler temperatures, making hiking comfortable. The foliage at higher elevations begins to change, painting the landscape in warm hues.

Bring enough layers because it gets cold.

Late Autumn (October)

As autumn deepens, the Strada delle 52 Gallerie takes on a magical quality. Crisp mornings and misty tunnels create an enchanting atmosphere. The fog made for an unforgettable time and it almost felt like I was on another planet! Dress in layers and check trail conditions, as some sections may get slippery.

With the time change, days are shorter so please remember to leave your house earlier in the day to get to the Rifugio on time and back at your car in enough time.

I was hiking in the dark when I did the tail end of this hike on Scarubbi road, It wasn’t terrifying but it was inconvienent.

Winter (Avoid Completely)

• Inadvisable: Close to winter, ice and snow make the trail treacherous. The Strada delle 52 Gallerie is officially closed during winter. Respect safety guidelines and plan your visit during the open seasons.

Statement of Liability

I do not undertake and do not have any responsibility, for the accuracy of any information provided or to determine or assure the suitability or safety of any hike, driver, vehicle, or other event or any related activity, in general, or as to a particular person. Each person who participates accepts responsibility for making their determinations and for their safety, conduct, and well-being; recognizes that possible hazards attend outdoor activities, and agrees to participate solely at their own risk.

Stay the night at Rifugio Achile Papa

If you want to experience a night on top of the trail, why not inquire about staying at a Rifugio? Sitting at 1928m, Rifugio Achile Papa is named after Major General Achile Papa who was a key figure in the Great War.

This refuge is located at Porte del Pasubio on the Pasubio massif and has ties back to World War I as it used to be an old Masonry shelter that was converted into a Barracks.

You can check out Rifuigio Achile Papa’s website for more information but Rifugio Achile Papa is open on the weekends and until November 10th!

Opening season for Rifugio stays are from 1 June to 13 October 2024 open every day and from 14 October 2024 to 10 November 2024 open on weekends.  

Strada Delle 52 Galleries Trail Information

• Distance: Approximately 9.25 miles ≈14.88 KM
• Trail Type: Military mule road with 52 tunnels, Loop trail, or out and back if you take the tunnels back down to the parking lot.
• Time to Complete: Around 5-6.5 hours
• Uphill: 2,675 feet ≈ 814.0 meters
• Downhill: 2,650 feet ≈ 807.7 meters
• Highest Point: 6,400 feet ≈ 1,951.5 meters
• Lowest Point: 3,950 feet ≈ 1,204.0 meters

The First Half

Welcome to the Strada Delle 52 Galleries! You’ll need to pay for parking before you start your Hike, it’s 6 euros, coin only. You’ll pass by a cheeky little sign with toilet paper, take a minute to laugh, and then take the time to read some informational boards that the Veneto region has put on display. These boards detail the 33rd mining companies’ efforts to create the 52 tunnels. The first tunnel, historic and mysterious, emerges after a few daring bends.

You’ll go through a turnstile and off you go. Take a moment to look around each bend because the views are spectacular. You’ll notice that each tunnel is named after someone of significance or a place in Italy.

There are all sorts of memorials for Alpini’s in the area, hanging on the cave walls. Pay your respects as you climb up this outdoor memorial.

The Ascent

Brace yourself—the initial ascent is steep, a dance between pinnacles and cliffs. You’ll pass the ‘Bella Laita’ spurs, and within just 20 tunnels, you’ll ascend to 1,700 meters. The ‘Val Camossara’ rises to 1,842 meters, and there, against the sky, you’ll find an almost flat stretch—the Fontana d’Oro pass at 1,870 meters.

Summit and Beyond

The pinnacle awaits 2,000 meters above sea level, a breathtaking vantage point after the forty-eighth tunnel.

Descend, follow the trail’s heartbeat, and arrive at the rifugio di Achille Papa. This is where I tell you to grab a drink and a bite to eat if they are open. You’ll get a taste of rifugio food and enjoy the company of the hut owner.

• For the return journey, take the Scarubbi road—a winding descent that leads you back to Bocchetta Campiglia. Use your hiking poles because the descent down is terrible on the knees if you choose to take the shortcuts down the mountainside
• It’s about 2km back to the parking lot from here and be patient with yourself.
• If you choose to take the tunnels back to the parking lot please be safe.

Conclusion

I hope this helps you plan your day at the Strada Delle 52 Galleries! As always leave a comment below if you have any questions about the hike or any recommendations!

If you need a milder hike, check out my write up on the Sentiero Grandi Alberi