Geotrekking - Rifugio Paludei Bivacco alla Madonnina

<p>Departure from Rifugio Paludei and arrival at Bivacco Vigolana after 1000m of elevation gain and a distance of 6 km. Difficult route.</p>

<p>The Frate spire and the rocky pinnacle of the Madonnina are two spectacular morphosculptures located on the northeastern side of the carbonatic massif of Vigolana. Nearby, on a rocky spur overlooking Vigolo Vattaro and Lake Caldonazzo, stands a fundamental shelter for climbers: the Bivacco Vigolana at the &#34;Madonnina&#34; (1990 m a.s.l.). Access to the bivouac is from Rifugio Paludei via the SAT trail marked E444. The traverse towards Rifugio Casarota along the SAT trails marked E425 and E442 is very interesting and panoramic, allowing a comprehensive view of the karst area on the southern side of Vigolana: a grand amphitheater gently sloping southwards with a breathtaking view of the Adige valley. The most evident karst morphologies consist of vertical karst pits that testify to the presence of underground karst phenomena (caves). One of the most visible is the Bus della Caldera, about 400 meters north of Castellazzo, and among others, the Bus del Giaz, the Bus del Bech, the Abisso Bosentino, and especially the Grotta Gabrielli, among the most notable in Trentino. The ascent to the Madonnina is demanding both in terms of elevation gain to overcome (850 m) and because the final section has equipped stretches and small rock faces requiring attention (for Experienced Hikers). After completing the traverse towards Rifugio Casarota, the return to Rifugio Paludei can be done via the Equipped Shepherds&#039; Path SAT trail E432 (for Experienced Hikers).</p>