Via Ferrata Gerardo Sega

DESCRIPTION
The Gerardo Sega Via Ferrata: a long and spectacular loop in the heart of Monte Baldo.

The Gerardo Sega Via Ferrata is located in the Monte Baldo group in the municipality of Avio, in the province of Trento. The Monte Baldo massif separates the Adige Valley from Lake Garda and represents one of the richest and most varied mountain areas in southern Trentino. The via ferrata develops on the wall of Monte Coalàz, within a rocky amphitheater of reddish-yellow rocks situated below the summit of Corno Gallina, which overlooks Val dei Molini and Valle d'Aviana.

Hike
The loop itinerary starting from the church of Madonna della Neve offers much more than a via ferrata: it combines a visit to the Preafessa waterfall — a 70-meter drop plunging into a wooded gorge — with a route through the Aviana stream canyon and the via ferrata itself, for a complete and varied excursion.
The via ferrata is classified EEA (Expert, Equipped Hikers), with grade B/C on the Austrian scale. It develops mainly along two superimposed ledges, exposed but technically not difficult, and concludes with a vertical wall and a dihedral requiring slightly greater effort. Overall, the difficulties remain moderate. The setting is that of a large natural amphitheater, surrounded by beech and hornbeam forests.
The approach is quite long but pleasant: the first kilometers descend through wide meadows and woods before climbing back up towards the via ferrata start. The complete route takes approximately 5:30 hours.
The fixed equipment along the route is well-maintained. It is mandatory to carry a harness, certified helmet, and via ferrata kit: the risk of debris from those on the upper part of the route is real. The itinerary is also well-suited for those approaching via ferratas for the first time, provided they are physically fit and do not suffer from vertigo.
The best season is spring or autumn: in summer, the heat and strong exposure make the day particularly strenuous.

History and interesting facts
The via ferrata is dedicated to Gerardo Sega, a founding member of the SAT (Società Alpinisti Tridentini) section of Avio, and is managed by the local section.
The starting point of the itinerary is the church of Madonna della Neve, located in a clearing on the slopes of Monte Baldo, in the locality of Corno della Selva (1,082 m), in the municipality of Avio. The sanctuary was erected in 1625 to replace a previous chapel dedicated to Santa Maria di Monte Baldo, already documented in 1307. It was blessed in 1627 and has been restored several times over the centuries; it is still connected to the parish of Avio.

ITINERARY
From the church of Madonna della Neve (1082 m) follow the CAI path 653. Upon reaching Villa Arvedi (1069 m), turn left and descend to Ponte della Balanzà (980 m). Here, take the signposted route 685 which leads to the Preafessa waterfall (730 m). Then begin to ascend and, upon reaching the rocky amphitheater where the Gerardo Sega Via Ferrata is located, you will find a small sign (780 m) near which it is advisable to put on your harness. After climbing a metal ladder about ten meters vertical, the long exposed horizontal ledge awaits – the most characteristic section of the route. After a stretch through the woods, you arrive at a wide, long ledge offering beautiful panoramic views but with no technical difficulties. Re-enter the woods and reach the summit register. Then follows the final section: a vertical wall and a dihedral. Upon reaching the end of the via ferrata (1155 m), return by following the signposted path 685 and then 653, passing through the locality Val di Rii (1,000 m).

EXCURSION DATE
April 24, 2026

STARTING POINT
The Church of Madonna della Neve (Avio)

REFRESHMENT POINT
None

AUTHOR’S SUGGESTIONS
Obviously, it is not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo.

SAFETY ADVICE
The feasibility of the proposed itinerary, like all mountain terrain, is subject to environmental changes due to natural events and weather conditions. Therefore, before setting out, consult the relevant tourist offices and/or reference mountain huts.
Our GPX tracks are for guidance only, meaning the route was completed under the best possible conditions considering the trail and weather of that particular day. Always assess the situation on-site.
Furthermore, remember to evaluate the route based on your physical abilities, training, and the equipment you have.
It is advisable to inform someone of the itinerary you intend to follow.
Remember that the emergency number is 112.

EQUIPMENT
It is recommended to have suitable equipment: technical mountain clothing, boots with Vibram or similar soles, via ferrata set, harness, helmet, via ferrata gloves, glasses, sunscreen, backpack with drinks.

RECOMMENDED MAPS
Tabacco 063 Monte Baldo - Malcesine - Garda [citation:6]

INTERESTING LINKS
https://www.parcomontebaldo.tn.it/it

HOW TO ARRIVE
From Avio, take the SP208 and go up. Shortly before reaching the Lago Pra da Stua dam, turn left and take the SP230 towards Madonna della Neve for 4.2 km. Now turn left onto the road that leads to the Church of Madonna della Neve.

PARKING AREA
Near the Church of Madonna della Neve (Avio)
GPS Coordinates: 45.741338, 10.889173

Parcheggio presso la Chiesa della Madonna della Neve

Al ponte della Balanzà si segue il segnavia 685

Attraversiamo il Rio Val del Rii

La Cascata Preafessa

Siamo in prossimità della ferrata

Attacco della Ferrata Gerardo Sega

Iniziamo con una scala

La cengia orizzontale

La cengia non attrezzata

Tratto nel bosco

Libro delle firme

Si continua a salire

Altro tratto nel bosco

Siamo arrivati alla fine della ferrata

Rientriamo seguendo il segnavia 685