Highlight • Lake
Pilate Lake
Hiking
4.9
(99)
Mountain biking
5.0
(2)
Running
5.0
(1)
Routes leading to this Highlight may be dangerous
Routes may comprise technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini
Tips
July 13, 2020
Hiking
•
May 10, 2022
Hiking
•
June 10, 2018
Hiking
It is located in a narrow glacial valley beneath Mount Vector (2476 m) and Redeemer Peak(2448 m) summits.
The lake takes its name from a legend in which Pontius Pilate was killed there and buried under lake bed as punishment for his role at passion of the Christ time.
Unique also for Chirocephalus marchesonii, a freshwater shrimp endemic to this lake.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Pilate Lake
4.9
(25)
130
hikers
17.6km
07:55
1,320m
1,320m
Prepare for a difficult hike through the Monti Sibillini National Park, covering 11.0 miles (17.6 km) with a significant 4327 feet (1319 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 7 hours and 55 minutes. This loop trail leads you through a narrow glacial valley, offering dramatic views of peaks like Monte Vettore. You will encounter varied terrain, from alpine paths to unstable scree and exposed sections, demanding robust footwear and careful footing. The iconic Lake Pilato, often called "the lake with glasses" due to its shape, is a highlight, nestled beneath vertical rock walls and displaying captivating shades of purple, blue, and green.
This route is considered hard and requires a good level of physical fitness, sure-footedness, and prior alpine hiking experience. Specialized equipment and technical mountain clothing are recommended due to the challenging nature of certain segments. Be aware that a particular descent from Roccette, below Rifugio Zilioli, is strongly discouraged even for experienced individuals due to its exposed nature and high risk of falling.
Lake Pilato is a unique glacial lake, the only natural one in the Marche region, and home to the endemic *Chirocefalo del Marchesoni*, a small, red, belly-swimming crustacean found nowhere else. The Monti Sibillini are steeped in folklore, with Lake Pilato central to legends involving witches and even Pontius Pilate. The trail offers an authentic high-mountain experience within a protected area renowned for its wild beauty and diverse wildlife, including the Apennine wolf and golden eagle.
5.0
(18)
119
hikers
18.0km
09:09
1,480m
1,480m
This difficult 11.2-mile loop from Foce to Monte Vettore via Sella del Banditello offers panoramic views and passes Lago di Pilato.
5.0
(3)
27
hikers
19.9km
09:26
1,440m
1,440m
This difficult 12.4-mile loop in Monti Sibillini National Park offers dramatic alpine scenery, including the unique Pilato lakes.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,990 m
Weather
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Tuesday 23 June
23°C
15°C
35 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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