Monte Punta

Monte Punta is a small peak in Val di Zoldo, which in itself is nothing special. Its beauty and fame stem from the towering peaks that surround it, the 360° panorama enjoyed from the summit and, last but not least, the ease of the route. This peak is very popular, especially in summer, precisely because it is easy to reach. In winter, it becomes a snowshoe hike of moderate difficulty, somewhat tiring, especially if the trail hasn’t been broken by others before you. The ascent is entirely through woodland, which makes it very safe from the risk of avalanches, and the view from the summit will make the effort worthwhile!

This hill was extensively used in the past by the valley’s inhabitants, and still bears the marks of this history, which it will reveal to the curious hiker keen to venture off the beaten track. Indeed, its slopes were used as pastureland, whilst iron mines were dug out in the more inaccessible areas. Just below the summit, however, there are traces of trenches and fortifications, which formed part of the ‘Yellow Line’, a defensive line built by the Austrian Empire in 1916–17 that ran from Casera Razzo to Cima Caldiera on the Asiago Plateau. All these activities have left their mark, and as you explore the many paths that wind along the mountain’s flanks (but especially if you venture a little further afield), you will come across old tabià, ruins, the remains of lime kilns and charcoal pits, trenches, mine entrances and dozens of traces of old, abandoned paths. A veritable treasure trove of history.

The most interesting legacy of this history is the many paths leading to the summit. In summer there are plenty of options, but in winter the choice is more limited. There are two easily accessible paths leading up from Costa and one from Zoppè. The route suggested here uses the two paths leading up from Costa. It can be walked in the opposite direction, or you can choose one of the two paths and follow it again on the way back.

Length: 7 km

Elevation gain: 600 m

Difficulty: moderate

Estimated time: 4–5 hours

Lowest point: Costa, 1420 m

Highest point: Monte Punta, 2000 m

Facilities: none

Itinerary

The starting point for this hike is Costa, a small village in Val di Zoldo. The road leading there is narrow and steep, so take great care if it has snowed recently (winter tyres are a must!). Here you’ll find a car park with around ten spaces; it’s free, but on a fine weekend they fill up quickly. There are no cafés for a coffee, so I recommend stopping off first at Forno di Zoldo. The village is tiny but charming, with its old houses, little church and incredible views.

Once you’ve parked your car, walk back a short way and take the forest track that climbs to the right; you’ll see signs for the Tamai Pass (trail 497). Shortly afterwards, you will come to a large building, the former Avedin mountain hut, which is currently being restored. The track climbs through the woods via steep hairpin bends up to the Tamai Pass. Here, take the path continuing to the right, number 499. You will soon reach the summit of Col Nero, which is of little interest as it is entirely covered in trees that obscure the view. A very short descent takes you to Forzela. Continue straight on along the same path. This final stretch is very beautiful, alternating steep climbs with gentler sections, offering occasional glimpses of the surrounding peaks. If no one has passed this way before you, it may be difficult to find the route: obtain a GPX track and pay close attention to the trail markers on the trees.

Pochi metri prima della cima il bosco finalmente si apre, lasciando vedere l'incredibile panorama a 360°. At the summit there is a small cross and a comfortable bench where you can rest. Behind you, Mount Pelmo reveals one of its finest views, whilst below you lies the entire Val di Zoldo, dominated by the majestic Civetta.

After a well-deserved break, begin your return journey by retracing your steps back to Forzela. Here, head down to the left onto path 496. Even here, if there are no clear tracks, it is not always easy to find the path. After about twenty minutes, you will come to a path leading down to the left: follow this one and do not continue on path 496, which, in the event of heavy snow accumulation, becomes difficult to navigate at a certain point. This detour will take you onto path 492, and shortly afterwards to the beautiful Mas de Sabe, an old tabià dating from the 1600s. Continuing along the path, you will soon return to Costa and the car park.

Posso farlo in altre stagioni?

Yes, this hike is perfect for any season. Without snow, there is a wider choice of routes. In summer, you can ascend from Forno di Zoldo via a long but beautiful route. This option, which runs entirely along the south face of the mountain, is one of my favourite spring training routes, as the snow clears quickly and it allows you to cover a significant elevation gain. There are also plenty of other options for combining this peak with longer routes; for example, starting from Brusadaz, you can reach Coi, Le Mandre, Sass de Formedal, Monte Punta, Col de Saere and Costa. A long and magnificent route. In autumn, Punta is one of my favourite spots for admiring the autumn colours! I recommend setting off from Costa and following trail 492 up to Col di Salere, then taking trail 499, and rejoining the route described above.

Variants

In winter, the accessible trails are limited. The long trail that climbs from Forno via Col de Salere is impassable on its final stretch, as are the other, longer routes. The only alternative is the trail that climbs from Zoppè. In my opinion, this option is less interesting, shorter and steeper, and does not allow for a circular route.

Map and route

If you’d like a paper map, I recommend the Tabacco 25 map of Val di Zoldo. However, I’d suggest using a good mobile app with a GPX track.

Punta ciaspole.gpx

Download GPX • 36KB

With the guide

Why take this guided tour if you already have all the information? First of all, if you are not familiar with snowy environments, if you do not know how to assess avalanche risk, if you do not know the area and if you have never worn snowshoes, I do not recommend venturing out into the snow alone. The mountains in winter are dangerous and a mistake can be fatal. During the winter season, there are many mountain rescues, knowledge of the environment and respect for one's limits are increasingly neglected, so even thinking 'I'll follow the others' does not keep you safe. A guide, on the other hand, is an expert on the area and will guide you safely on this or other routes according to the conditions at the time and your level of preparation. If they consider this route dangerous, they will suggest an alternative one, so you don't waste your day!

In addition, the guide will accompany you beyond simply admiring the landscape: they will show you, teach you and explain what surrounds us. What mountain is that? What animals live in the forest? Why are the Dolomites special? The guide will answer your questions and help you discover the history and unique features of the place. This way, your day in the Dolomites will not just be a walk in the snow but a real experience that you will remember forever.

The guide will help you choose the right equipment and can hire you snowshoes and poles, as well as advise you on where to hire hiking boots and clothing. For certain locations, I offer a transport service from your hotel. This means you don't have to worry about driving, the route or equipment, and you can enjoy the day without any worries!

To book this or other excursions with me, visit the TAILOR-MADE EXCURSIONS page.

Disclaimer

This post was written based on my personal experience in the mountains.

You can use the information provided and the GPX track at your own risk; I accept no responsibility. Remember that the mountains are unforgiving.

Before setting off on your own, study the route carefully, check the weather and snow conditions, and make sure you have the appropriate equipment and clothing. If you are not an expert, do not go alone, but contact a guide.