Top 10 Mountain Passes around Sirone
Best mountain passes around Sirone, situated in the Province of Lecco, Lombardy, Italy, provide access to varied pre-Alpine and Alpine landscapes. While Sirone itself is at a low elevation, the surrounding region features numerous passes known for their routes and natural settings. These areas offer a range of experiences, from challenging climbs to scenic drives and hiking trails. The region's geography includes both rugged mountain terrain and picturesque valleys.
Best mountain passes around Sirone
- The most popular mountain passes is…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Cow Pass
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Bocchetta di Luera (1,209 m)
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Ascent to Monte Cornizzolo from Eupilio
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Monte Cornizzolo Road
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Forcella dei Corni
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Tips from the Community
The Forcella dei Corni is a crossing point between the Corni di Canzo peaks, located at 1,276 meters above sea level. Trail no. 5, which starts from Terz'Alpe, leads to this pass. From here, you can take several routes: left for the Corno di Canzo Occidentale, right for the Corno Centrale, or descend to the SEV Refuge. It's an excellent vantage point offering spectacular views. The trails that continue from here toward the peaks of the horns have steep and technical sections that require caution.
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From the Forcella dei Corni you can choose whether to descend to the SEV Refuge or climb towards the Corno di Canzo Occidentale or the Corno Centrale.
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Beautiful ridge hike for those who like to have a bit of emptiness on both sides.
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Technical passage for people with a propensity for exposed passages
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I'm asking for info. On the komoot map there is (going up from the 25th anniversary via ferrata) a fork on the left. Is this fork located before the Passo della Vacca? Is it passable and can it function as an escape route? Thanks
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Passo della Vacca – Corni di Canzo Elevation: approx. 1,230 m Difficulty: EE (Expert Hikers) / T4 Exposure: high on the south side (vertical drop) Passo della Vacca is a characteristic rock notch located along the crest of the Western Horn of the Corni di Canzo, in the Larian Triangle. It is located just below the summit, at approximately 1,230 meters above sea level, and ideally connects the Ravella Valley (Canzo) with Valbrona, offering a suggestive and delicate passage in the crest crossing of the three Corni. Morphologically, it appears as a clear fracture in the rock, approximately 40 cm wide at the base but which widens towards the top, creating an exposed point with a vertical precipice on the south side, above the so-called Camino Gandin (an 80-meter gully). On the north side, however, it descends into a steep grassy gully, more accessible but still sloping. Its particular shape creates a natural “window effect”: at sunset, the sun can filter through the rock and make the hole visible from the valley floor. It is a must-see for those who reach the Corno Occidentale via the ridge from the west or from the Ferrata del Venticinquennale, and is part of routes classified EE (Expert Hikers) due to its exposure. The section is not equipped: there are no chains or cables. The crossing is done by supporting yourself with your hands and feet, lowering yourself on the north side to cross the gap safely. It does not present any real mountaineering difficulties, but requires a sure step, an absence of vertigo and maximum concentration, especially with a bulky backpack or in the presence of wind. The Passo della Vacca can be reached from path no. 1 from Canzo passing through Terz’Alpe, or from Colma di Pianezzo and Rifugio SEV via the ridge. Once passed, in a few minutes you reach the summit cross of the Corno Occidentale (1,373 m). From here you can continue with the complete crossing of the three Corni (Western, Central, Eastern) or descend towards the SEV Refuge. It is not recommended in the presence of snow or ice, when it becomes an alpine passage and may present verglas. In summer, however, it should be avoided in case of storms or crowds. The ideal is to tackle it in spring or autumn with dry rock. Although it is short and technically simple, it is a stretch where caution is essential: in the past, even serious accidents have occurred, often caused by distraction or underestimation of the danger. The Passo della Vacca is a symbol of the wild charm of the Corni di Canzo: a place that offers strong emotions and spectacular views, reserved for those who have experience, attention and respect for the mountains.
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Good asphalt, quite challenging with a couple of steep sections at 18%
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This challenging, exposed pass, not protected by chains, requires extreme caution and a head for heights. The difficulty and exposure of this section approach light mountaineering (EE + A, UIAA grade I–II). This is the most difficult section of the entire Corni di Canzo traverse: https://www.komoot.com/it-it/highlight/7234185 Recommended reading: https://www.lariotrek.it/soiusa/triangolo-lariano/gruppo-dei-corni-di-canzo/corni-di-canzo/corno-Occidente-di-canzo/passo-della-vacca
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most challenging mountain passes near Sirone?
For experienced hikers, the Cow Pass (Passo della Vacca) is a highly challenging rock notch on the Corni di Canzo, requiring extreme caution due to its exposure and lack of chains. Similarly, Forcella dei Corni offers spectacular views but has steep and technical sections. Further afield, the iconic Stelvio Pass and Gavia Pass are renowned for their demanding climbs and dramatic Alpine landscapes, popular with cyclists and motorists seeking a true adventure.
Are there any historically significant mountain passes in the region?
Yes, the Pertus Pass (Passo Pertus) is historically notable, also known as the 'Passo degli Spagnoli' (Spaniards' Pass) because a Spanish army crossed it in 1528. Located at approximately 1,193 meters above sea level, it connects the Imagna Valley with the San Martino Valley and offers panoramic views.
What natural features can I expect to see on these passes?
The region's passes offer diverse natural beauty. The Orrido di Erve Climb provides impressive panoramas amidst a ravine overlooking the lake. The Cow Pass features a unique 'window effect' visible from the valley. Bocchetta di Luera is surrounded by rich biodiversity, including beech and chestnut forests. The Stelvio and Gavia Passes boast stunning high-alpine scenery, while Passo San Pietro ascends through picturesque pre-Alpine environments.
What is the best time of year to visit the mountain passes around Sirone?
The ideal time to tackle many of the passes, especially those with technical sections like the Cow Pass, is in spring or autumn when the rock is dry and conditions are stable. High-alpine passes like Stelvio and Gavia are typically best visited in summer when they are fully open and free of snow. Winter visits are generally not recommended for challenging passes due to snow, ice, and verglas.
Are there family-friendly mountain passes or easier routes for beginners?
While some passes like the Cow Pass are very challenging, other areas offer more accessible experiences. The Pertus Pass, for instance, serves as a starting point for various hiking routes, some of which may be suitable for families. The climb to Madonna del Ghisallo from Erba is considered an easier cycling option compared to the Bellagio side, making it more approachable for those just starting out. Always check specific route details for difficulty before heading out.
What are the difficulty levels for cycling the passes near Sirone?
Difficulty varies significantly. The Stelvio Pass and Gavia Pass are considered epic and highly challenging climbs for cyclists. The Orrido di Erve Climb is noted as 'very pedalable' and intermediate. The Climb to Madonna del Ghisallo from Erba is an intermediate route, an alternative to the harder Bellagio side, with consistent gradients in sections.
Are there places to eat or stay near the mountain passes?
Yes, some passes offer amenities. At the Pertus Pass, there is a shelter that provides refreshments and rest. For the Madonna del Ghisallo summit, there's a church and a cycling museum. For broader options, you'll find cafes, pubs, and accommodation in the towns and villages surrounding the passes, such as those in the Lake Como area or near the base of the larger Alpine passes.
What outdoor activities can I do near the mountain passes around Sirone?
The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, from easy to challenging, exploring the pre-Alpine and Alpine landscapes. There are also extensive road cycling and general cycling routes. For specific hiking options, explore the Hiking around Sirone guide. For cycling, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Sirone and Cycling around Sirone guides.
Are there specific hiking trails that lead to or from these mountain passes?
Absolutely. The Bocchetta di Luera, for example, is a crucial junction for hikers exploring the Corni di Canzo, with well-marked trails starting from Valmadrera or Canzo. From Forcella dei Corni, you can choose to descend to the SEV Refuge or climb towards the Corno di Canzo Occidentale or Centrale. The Pertus Pass also serves as a starting point for various hiking routes to peaks like Monte Tesoro or Resegone.
What do visitors enjoy most about the mountain passes around Sirone?
Visitors frequently praise the impressive panoramas and the quiet, less-frequented nature of some areas, like the Orrido di Erve Climb. The challenging and exposed nature of passes like the Cow Pass is appreciated by those seeking strong emotions and spectacular views, provided they have the necessary experience and respect for the mountains. Cyclists often consider the Madonna del Ghisallo a 'bucket-list destination' for its views and historical significance.
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