Sentiero Attrezzato N. Gusella and Via Ferrata Del Velo
Description
This combination of the Gusella Path and the Ferrata del Velo is technically from easy to medium difficulty. The descent from Passo Stephen requires very secure footing. It is a magnificent ferrata that requires stable weather conditions and good planning due to the vast territory.
Access & starting point
San Martino di Castrozza (1445 m), Rosetta cable car.
Approach
From the upper station of the cable car to Rifugio Rosetta (2581 m), descend and continue down following trail no. 702 then no. 715, Alta Via delle Dolomiti, to Passo di Ball (2443 m). At the pass, follow signs for trail 714, Sentiero Attrezzato N. Gusella, Forcella di Stephen.
Route
From Passo di Ball, take the Gusella ferrata (easy to medium difficulty) to Passo Stephen (2650 m). From there, in about 20 minutes you can reach Cima di Val Roda (2791 m) or descend toward Forcella del Porton (partially equipped, caution in scrambling!). Rifugio Velo and the ferrata's end are in sight. Below Forcella del Porton (access and exit of the Ferrata del Porton), traverse to access the Ferrata del Velo which is descended (new route with many metal rungs).
Technical Details
Neither ferrata is particularly long or difficult. The long hiking sections between the two routes require steady pace and good physical shape. Take care especially descending from Passo Stephen and returning from Rifugio Velo della Madonna. Variants: Several variants are available, including going toward Rifugio Pradidali, or returning via Val Canali (very long route, approx. 10 hrs in total). Also possible is descending directly to San Martino via Ferrata della Vecchia (difficult descent).
Descent
From Rifugio Velo della Madonna back to San Martino (trail no. 721).
Gallery
