Passo Manghen (North side)

Passo Manghen (North side)

Passo Manghen’s northern side is a cornerstone of Giro d’Italia history, often serving as a brutal separator in the queen stages of the race. Since its introduction to the professional circuit, it has become a symbol of the "Corsa Rosa," where the narrow, winding road creates a claustrophobic and intense atmosphere for the peloton. Historically, these mountain paths were used by local communities for moving livestock between the valleys of Trentino, but they are now synonymous with the grit of grand tour racing. The summit has seen some of the most dramatic moments in the sport, as riders contend with the high altitude and the unpredictable weather that often sweeps across the Lagorai range.

The geography of this ascent is defined by its transition from the deep green of the Val di Fiemme forests into a stark, alpine wilderness. The porphyry rock of the surrounding peaks gives the landscape a darker, more rugged character than the pale dolomite seen elsewhere in the region. As the road snakes upward, the trees eventually give way to open pastures and jagged ridgelines, offering a sense of immense scale and isolation. This north side is celebrated for its purity and lack of commercial development, preserving a rugged environment that reflects the true spirit of the Italian Alps.