Hiking from Vernago to Passo Giogo

This challenging hike takes you to the discovery place of the famous Iceman.

To reach the place of discovery of the legendary Iceman, there are actually two starting points: the locality of Vernago at 1,711 metres or the Tiesenhof farm at 1,814 (few parking sites).

From Vernago you hike along a broad road to the parking site near to the reservoir dam and further on marked trails towards the Tiesenhof farm. The archaeological trail no. 2 takes you further across pastures and woods the Valle di Tisa. Slightly above the last trees, at an altitude of 2,300 m, you will come across a refuge called “Schneckenhütte” and an archaeological site referred to as “labyrinth”. The fairly ancient trail takes you to a mountain pass named “Giogo di Tisa”, where in 1991 the body of the legendary iceman was found. But watch out: the last part before reaching the Similaunhütte refuge is slightly steep and rocky woth climbing passages. Already at this stage you can watch the mighty white Similaun glacier (3,600 m).

Right after the Similaunhütte refuge the trail leads further upwards, following the signs “RW”. Now you have to climb; ropes will help. Once you have reached the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking view. On your right there is a well-visible path taking you downwards to the tomb of Ötzi (3,208 m). By the way: the mummy of the Iceman is exhibited at the Archaeological Museum of Bolzano.

Starting point: Vernago or Tisenhof Farm
Length: 7 - 8 km
Altitude difference: 1,552 m
Path: 2, 2A
Walking time: 5 hours way up, 3 hours way down
Degree of difficulty: firs part easy alpine path, second part climbing
Recommendation: good physical shape and alpine experience required
Character: ropes for security
Further information: Tourist office, phone: +39 0473 679 148, e-mail: info@schnalstal.it