Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo

Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo

Italy, europe

Length

5.3 km

Elevation

1,908 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

# Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo: A Heart-Pounding Alpine Adventure

Nestled in the Dolomites of northeastern Italy, Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo sits at a breathtaking 1,908m (6,259ft) elevation—and trust us, the drive to get there is just as breathtaking. This old military road is not for the faint of heart.

What you're getting into: think steep, winding switchbacks that seem to go on forever, with sections so narrow that oncoming traffic becomes a genuine puzzle. In plenty of places, you're essentially driving along a cliff edge with no guardrails between you and a drop that'll make your stomach flip. But here's the kicker—someone recently gave the road a fresh coat of asphalt, which sounds great until you hit those brutal 29% grade ramps covered in loose gravel outside the tire tracks. It keeps things interesting, that's for sure.

The route spans just 5.3km from Misurina (extending to 6.3km if you push to where the gravel begins), climbing over three mountain passes: Forcella Bassa, Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo, and Forcella Àuta/Alta before ending at the Rifugio Bois at Monte Piana.

The payoff? Phenomenal. You're practically neighbors with the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and the views are absolutely camera-worthy. Plus, Monte Piana is steeped in World War I history—this area saw intense battles between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces, and you'll spot remnants throughout. It's a place where adventure meets history, making for an unforgettable drive.

Where is it?

Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.3987, 12.5329

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Road Details

Country
Italy
Continent
europe
Length
5.3 km
Max Elevation
1,908 m
Difficulty
extreme
Coordinates
42.3987, 12.5329

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