Monte Scale Loop

From the Fraele Towers, ascend the military mule track N197.1 through a dense Swiss pine forest until reaching a shoulder at the foot of a rock face. Follow a ledge horizontally then ascend among rocks, channels, and scree along the path. With a final hairpin turn you reach the clearing overlooking the Monte Scale Barracks. Inside the Barracks, a gallery with two hut-shaped powder magazines allows to cross the saddle and emerge on the opposite side of the mountain. Through a rather narrow path you reach the Monte Scale Cross which offers an excellent panoramic view of the entire Bormio area. The return follows the northern side of Monte Scale along path N197. Initially, the trail crosses sparse pastures then enters a very dense Swiss pine forest until reaching the Casina del Lago, now a private shelter for fishermen on the peaceful Lago delle Scale. Following the lakeshore along the paved road, you return to the starting point.