Il passo dello Scalone – giro ad anello da Belvedere Marittimo

This route is consistently rated as difficult due to its length (approximately 67.5 km), significant elevation gain (around 1,650 meters), and varied terrain. The ascent from Belvedere Marittimo to Passo dello Scalone alone covers 13.6 km with a 686-meter vertical gain and an average gradient of 5%. Some unpaved sections may even require you to dismount and push your bike.

The estimated time to complete the entire mountain biking loop is approximately 4 hours and 33 minutes. This duration assumes a steady pace for experienced riders given the trail's difficulty.

The trail features a diverse mix of surfaces. You'll encounter substantial portions of paved and unpaved roads, secondary roads, paths, and singletrack sections. The route is predominantly hilly, characterized by numerous ascents and descents throughout the Pollino National Park.

You can expect beautiful views of mountains and nature as you traverse the scenic landscape of the Pollino National Park. Certain segments of the trail also offer glimpses of the sea and lead through refreshing pine forests. The Passo dello Scalone itself, at 740 meters, marks a natural divide between the Lucanian and Calabrian Apennines.

Yes, notable highlights along the route include the Lake of the Two Men and the Passo dello Scalone Trail – Piano di Zanche and Pietrabianca. These offer distinct natural beauty and trail features.

As this is a loop tour starting and ending in Belvedere Marittimo, you can typically find parking within the town of Belvedere Marittimo to begin your ride. Specific parking areas may vary, so it's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.

While the Pollino National Park generally allows dogs, it's important to keep them on a leash, especially given the varied terrain and potential for wildlife encounters. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and capable of handling the long, difficult ride.

The best time to mountain bike this route is typically during the spring and autumn months when temperatures are milder. Summer can be quite hot, especially in Calabria, and winter may bring adverse weather conditions or snow at higher elevations within the Pollino National Park.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Il passo dello Scalone mountain biking trail within the Pollino National Park. However, always respect park regulations and leave no trace.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. You'll find sections that overlap with the SICAI Ciclo, Sentiero Italia - Tappa U27, and ABT Tappa 29: Orsomarso - Sant’Agata di Esaro, among others.

Given the trail's difficulty and length, you should bring plenty of water, energy snacks, a repair kit for your bike, a first-aid kit, and appropriate safety gear including a helmet. A map or GPS device is also highly recommended, as some sections may be remote.