Infernone Trail between adventure and nature in Sordevolo

Where is the Infernone Equipped Trail and why is it so special?

The Infernone Equipped Trail is located near Sordevolo, a municipality in the province of Biella, in Piedmont. It develops along the suggestive gorge of the Elvo stream, in a spectacular and wild natural environment. It is an equipped hiking itinerary that does not require great technical skills, but offers strong emotions thanks to its three suspended bridges, rocky walls, and panoramic stretches over the stream. The route is perfect for those who love walking in nature, taking photos, and experiencing an adventure accessible to everyone.

Where does the Infernone Trail start?

The starting point is Sordevolo, reachable in about 15 minutes by car from Biella. You park in the public parking along via Bagneri, where other hiking itineraries in the area also start. From the parking lot, you go down the road, following the signs for the Ferrata dell’Infernone. The CAI signs are numerous and clearly visible. After about 20 minutes of walking, you arrive at the start of the equipped trail.

How long and difficult is the Infernone Equipped Trail?

The route is about 3 kilometers long and has a modest elevation gain, but it should not be underestimated: some sections are wet and slippery, especially near the stream. The total time to complete it is about 3 hours, including photo stops. It is not a real via ferrata, but an equipped trail: along the way, there are ropes, metal cables, and steps to facilitate passage in the most exposed points. The difficulty level is medium-low, suitable even for hikers with little experience, as long as they are used to walking on mountain terrain.

How does the route develop along the Elvo gorge?

After the start, there is a short descent assisted by a rope, necessary to overcome a wet and slippery area. The trail then begins to ascend diagonally on a ramp and continues along a panoramic ledge, passing under the stone bridge for Bagneri. Along the route, there are alternating equipped sections and natural paths, with sections on rock and others on wooded terrain. The cables and metal ropes mainly serve to ensure safety in the most exposed or slippery points. During the walk, you encounter three suspended bridges (monkey bridges), made with three parallel ropes: one for the feet and two for the hands. Crossing them is an unforgettable experience and offers a unique view of the Elvo gorge.

What makes the Infernone of Sordevolo fascinating?

The charm of the Infernone Equipped Trail lies in the variety of environments: you walk next to waterfalls, overcome natural canyons, and cross stretches of deep, humid forest. The Elvo stream flows vigorously between smooth rocks and crystal-clear pools, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. The itinerary is also very photogenic, especially in the spots where the trail runs high above the water or near the small waterfalls.

Are there challenging or dangerous sections?

Overall, the trail is not dangerous, but it requires attention in wet sections or on wet rock. The use of a helmet and climbing gloves is recommended, especially after periods of rain. It should be avoided in the days following heavy rainfall, as the gorge becomes very slippery and some sections may be flooded. Those who love stronger emotions can traverse the Ferrata dell’Infernone in reverse, combining adventure and adrenaline. In this case, the difficulty is slightly greater in the vertical sections.

How do you return to the starting point?

After the last suspended bridge, the trail gently rises toward the ridge overlooking the gorge. From here, you take a panoramic mule track that descends towards Sordevolo, bringing you back to the parking lot along via Bagneri in about 40 minutes. The route is well marked and always immersed in nature.

What to see around Sordevolo and the Infernone Trail?

Sordevolo is a very charming village, known for the Passion of Sordevolo, a religious theatrical representation that takes place every five years and involves the whole town. The historic center is characterized by stone houses and panoramic alleys, ideal for a quiet walk after the hike. Nearby, there are also unmissable naturalistic and cultural destinations: The Sanctuary of Oropa, a UNESCO heritage site, one of the most important in Italy. The cliffs of Oropa and Mucrone, perfect for climbing enthusiasts. The Burcina Park, with its rhododendrons and panoramic trails. The villages of Rosazza and Campiglia Cervo, rich in history and mystery.

Where to sleep near the Infernone Equipped Trail?

There are several welcoming accommodations near Sordevolo and Biella: B&B Sordevolo Antica Dimora: panoramic rooms and typical breakfast. Agriturismo La Burcina, between nature and Piedmontese cuisine. Rifugio Savoia di Oropa, ideal for those who want a complete mountain experience. Hotel Augustus in Biella, a convenient starting point to explore the entire area.

What to do in the evening after the Infernone Trail?

After a day immersed in nature, it is nice to relax by tasting the flavors of Biella. The trattorias in Sordevolo and nearby towns offer typical dishes such as polenta concia, braised Nebbiolo, mountain cheeses, and chestnut desserts. Those staying in Biella can take advantage of the evening for a walk in the historic center of Piazzo, among porticos, local shops, and wine bars. In summer, many villages organize village festivals and outdoor concerts, perfect for ending the day on a cheerful note.

What other via ferratas and equipped trails are near the Infernone?

For ferrata enthusiasts, the province of Biella offers many other opportunities: Ferrata Nito Staich, panoramic and challenging. Ferrata di Rosazza, immersed in an authentic mountain environment. Ferrata Ciao Miki, near Oropa. Ferrata del Limbo and Ferrata della Balma, in the San Paolo Cervo area. All these routes are reachable in 30-40 minutes by car from Sordevolo and allow you to discover other fascinating areas of the Biella Prealps. However, the Infernone Equipped Trail remains one of the most suggestive routes in Biella, capable of combining adventure, nature, and relaxation in a single unforgettable experience.