Alpine and very demanding: Samnaun – Scuol

The start of the route is at the Schmuggleralm, at the edge of the village of Samnaun. The first 7 km to the Zeblasjoch still present no technical difficulties. We follow the alpine road and complete the first 700 meters of elevation.
Shortly after the Zeblasjoch, we take the path left through the impressive Val Gronda to the Fuorcla Val Gronda. Slightly descending, the trail continues to the Heidelberger Hut. This is the last opportunity to shorten the route (Fimberpass – Val Sinestra). At the Heidelberger Hut, we follow the hiking trail leading southwards into the valley across terraced pastureland scattered with many boulders towards Fuorcla Davo Dieu / Davo Lais. At a small pond at Foppa Trida (P.2548), trail marks turn southeast. The terrain becomes increasingly rougher and steeper, and we have to adapt our pace accordingly. After 1.5 km and another 300 meters of elevation gain, we reach Fuorcla Davo Lais. Now follows a steep descent over very rocky terrain to the Davo Lais Lakes, a good place for a well-deserved break. We then follow the somewhat easier-to-walk path along the slope heading south. At P.2605 begins the last steep ascent through scree to Fuorcla Champatsch. From here, we enjoy the last view into Val Laver. A rocky path leads us downwards to the base station of the ski lift and further over alpine meadows to the mountain station Motta Naluns.
Those who want can still tackle the descent via the Clozza Gorge to Scuol (5 km – 900 m elevation). Otherwise, we enjoy a cool drink on the terrace of the mountain restaurant and take the gondola down to Scuol.

Note: technically difficult, alpine rocky terrain, for very experienced runners. Physically and technically very demanding route, no option to exit! Slightly easier to run in the opposite direction (Motta Naluns – Samnaun).

Trail running shoes recommended. Possibly also trail running poles.

Technically difficult, alpine rocky terrain. For very experienced runners. Physically and technically very demanding route. No exit option.

Further information about trail running in the Lower Engadine can be found at engadin.com/Trailrunning.