4.4
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53
hikers
Trail 542 to Monte Cimone
04:31
8.17km
810m
Hiking
Hike Trail 542 from Arsiero to Monte Cimone Ossuary, a difficult 5.1-mile route through WWI history with significant elevation gain.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 4.60 km for 19 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.70 km
Former Italian Military Cemetery of Neutral Quota WW1
Highlight • Historical Site
Already following the first attacks, the recovery of numerous Italian fallen soldiers began, who were buried by their comrades in this clearing in the middle of the woods, known as 'Caviojo Cemetery No. 1', a few hundred meters from the front line. 4 terraces supported by dry stone walls were created: at the end of the war, there were about 200 wooden crosses; many fallen soldiers recovered under the rocks of Cimone remained unknown.
Towards the end of the 1920s, all the small field cemeteries in the area were decommissioned; the bodies were then transported to the new Monumental Military Cemetery of Arsiero.
After decades of abandonment and invasion of shrubs, the cemetery was brought to light and recovered on several occasions thanks to the Alpine troops, volunteers and the Veneto Region.
Translated by Google •
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3.11 km
Neutral Elevation Tunnel (Cimone)
Highlight • Cave
It's pitch black and has a steep staircase, with steps often made slippery by the damp, but a rope helps: a flashlight is essential.
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Tip by
3.50 km
Monte Cimone WWI Tunnel
Highlight • Historical Site
From the dizzying vertical rock face overlooking the tunnel, hidden from enemy view and considered insurmountable, the Alpine troops launched a daring attack, using ropes and ladders, to retake Mount Cimone, which after the Strafexpedition was firmly in Austro-Hungarian hands.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.00 km
Ossuary of Monte Cimone WW1
Highlight • Monument
Mount Cimone was a crucial defensive bastion for the Italians, given its strategic and central position at the crossroads of the Astico and Posina Valleys, and its defense of the plain. For the same reason, it was a key point for the Austro-Hungarians to invade enemy territory. During the Strafexpedition of May 1916, the Imperial Army occupied the entire Tonezza Plateau and Mount Cimone, but the Italians managed to recapture it with a daring and unexpected feat, climbing the vertiginous southern face. The Austro-Hungarians decided to drive the enemy from the summit at all costs. Failing to do so with direct attacks, they constructed a mine tunnel, and on September 23, 1916, they detonated a gigantic quantity of explosives (14,000 kg), which shattered and shattered the summit, leaving a crater 50 meters in diameter and 22 meters deep, permanently changing the mountain's morphology. Enormous boulders were hurled into the sky, so high that some debris returned to the ground only three minutes after the explosion! The blast overwhelmed over 200 Italian soldiers (almost 300 according to other sources), some killed instantly, others buried alive under the rubble: the remains of at least ninety men, never recovered, still lie in the bowels of Cimone.
The enormous crater was located where the square now stands: the mountain ridge rose steadily to the summit where the ossuary now stands. The altar is carved from one of the extremely heavy stone blocks that flew dozens of meters into the air with the tremendous explosion; above it, the lantern was forged from iron scraps found on the battlefield; at its foot, the trapdoor was once a grate, into which visitors could throw the human bones found in the area after the war.
it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monte_Cimone_di_Tonezza#Prima_guerra_mondiale
it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ossario_del_monte_Cimone
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4.51 km
Cima Neutra Tunnel Entrance
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
8.17 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.85 km
1.04 km
161 m
122 m
Surfaces
3.76 km
3.08 km
585 m
310 m
190 m
120 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,160 m)
Lowest point (350 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 13 July
29°C
18°C
59 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How challenging is Trail 542 from Arsiero to Monte Cimone Ossuary?
This trail is generally considered a difficult hike. It involves a significant elevation gain of over 800 meters and includes rocky sections and alpine terrain. Sure-footedness is required, especially on the final approach to Monte Caviojo's summit, which has a short equipped section.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this trail?
The trail primarily traverses beech forests, gradually becoming more demanding as you ascend. You'll encounter a mix of forest paths, rocky sections, and open alpine terrain. Historical elements like reconstructed trenches and the impressive Neutral Elevation Tunnel (Cimone) are also part of the landscape.
What historical landmarks will I see along Trail 542?
This trail is rich in World War I history. You'll pass by the Former Italian Military Cemetery of Neutral Quota WW1, reconstructed trenches at Bolgia delle Streghe, and the remarkable Neutral Elevation Tunnel (Cimone). The hike culminates at the poignant Ossuary Monument of Monte Cimone.
Are there any notable viewpoints on the trail?
Yes, as you ascend, the scenery transitions to more open alpine views. Primary panoramic viewpoints include the summit of Monte Caviojo, offering vistas of the Asiago Plateau, and the military memorial atop Monte Cimone, which provides commanding views of the surrounding Val d'Astico and Val Posina.
What is the significance of the Monte Cimone Ossuary?
The Ossuary Monument of Monte Cimone is a poignant memorial to the soldiers who fell during World War I. It stands on the peak of Monte Cimone, which was dramatically altered in 1916 by a massive Austro-Hungarian mine detonation. The ossuary, inaugurated in 1929, houses the remains of 1,210 fallen soldiers, and the altar is built from stone blocks thrown skyward by the explosion.
Does the trail pass through any tunnels?
Yes, a significant feature of the trail is the impressive Galleria Cima Neutra (Neutral Elevation Tunnel), a 350-meter spiraling tunnel carved into the rock in 1917. It served as a protected passage and firing position during WWI. Bringing a headlamp is highly recommended if you plan to explore its side passages.
Where can I park to access Trail 542?
The trail typically starts from Arsiero. While specific parking details aren't provided, you would generally look for parking options within Arsiero or at designated trailheads near the town to begin your hike towards Monte Cimone.
Is Trail 542 from Arsiero to Monte Cimone Ossuary dog-friendly?
The trail traverses diverse terrain including forests and rocky sections. While not explicitly stated, generally, well-behaved dogs on a leash are permitted on most hiking trails in this region. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with challenging terrain and historical sites, and be prepared to clean up after them.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail is best hiked during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when the paths are clear of snow and ice. During these seasons, you'll experience the beech forests and alpine views at their best. Winter conditions can make the trail significantly more challenging and potentially hazardous.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Trail 542?
There is no mention of specific permits or entrance fees required to hike Trail 542 itself. Access to the natural areas and historical sites along the route, including the Monte Cimone Ossuary, is generally free, though donations might be accepted at the ossuary.
What essential gear should I bring for this hike?
Given the trail's difficulty and terrain, you should bring sturdy hiking boots, sufficient water, snacks, and appropriate layers of clothing. A headlamp is highly recommended for exploring the Neutral Elevation Tunnel (Cimone). Trekking poles can also be helpful for stability on rocky sections.
Does Trail 542 connect with other hiking paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Sentiero degli Alpini. This indicates that it integrates with other historical military tracks in the area, offering potential for extended exploration.
Comments
The entire slope is dotted with evidence of the Great War: after the Strafexpedition of 1916, the area had become the front line, of …
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