
Is the Road to Colle San Carlo Paved?
Italy, europe
18.5 km
1,954 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Colle San Carlo, a sweet mountain pass tucked away in the Italian Alps, clocking in at a cool 6,410 feet above sea level. You'll find it winding through the Aosta Valley region – seriously stunning scenery. We're talking about Strada Regionale 39 (SR39), a roughly 11.5-mile stretch of pavement linking La Thuile and Morgex.
Now, heads up – this isn't just a leisurely drive. Some stretches boast a max gradient of 13%! Starting in La Thuile, you'll climb about 2,800 feet over roughly 6 miles for an average grade of 8.7%. Coming from Morgex? Get ready to ascend around 3,200 feet in about 5.5 miles, averaging a 10.9% grade, and sections exceed 13%! Translation: Get ready for some serious switchbacks and breathtaking views.
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 18.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,954 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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