Crowdfunding Update: Progress on Trail Network Restoration

The intense rains from October 14-17 put the Finale Outdoor Region to the test, impacting several trails and access roads that connect this extensive network across multiple municipalities, from the coast to the backcountry areas. Thankfully, no trails were completely destroyed, thanks in large part to the water management improvements implemented over the past two years. However, recons conducted in the days following the storm highlighted the need for extraordinary work to ensure safety and accessibility.

In response, a wave of solidarity brought together over 50 individuals, including trail builders, consortium operators, and volunteers, who worked side by side with a strong spirit of collaboration. Thanks to this collective effort, a partial reopening of the trail network was achieved in a short time.

The following trails have been reopened thanks to this team effort:

• Toboga di Canova
• Rollercoaster
• Roll Up
• Cacciatore
• Kill Bill 1 and 2
• Madonna della Guardia
• Crestino
• Ingegnere
• 115
• Madre Natura
• Base Nato
• Supergroppo
• Rocche Gianche
• Trails in the Ranzi Area
• Dolmen
• Rocca dei Corvi
• La Cava
• Criceto
• Pino Morto

However, following this initial emergency phase, recons have confirmed the need for an additional budget estimated at at least €25,000 to support over 1,500 unplanned hours, essential for completing the safety work on the remaining damaged trails.

The Importance of the Trail Network for the Community and Outdoor Enthusiasts

The mountain biking trail network is a vital asset for the region’s outdoor tourism, attracting around 400,000 visitors annually. This figure, based on data from some accommodation providers and excluding the numerous holiday apartments (of which there are 1,500 in Finale alone), underscores the importance of keeping trails in top condition to ensure safety and quality experiences in the Finale Outdoor Region.

Regular maintenance planning is based on reports from Area Managers and the available budget. In this sudden emergency, given the time of year and the high number of trails needing immediate attention, we decided to act with maximum urgency to complete the unplanned work and make the majority of trail areas accessible again as quickly as possible.

How Trail Maintenance is Funded in the Finale Outdoor Region

Trail network maintenance is managed by a team of 15 trail builders who work year-round on both regular and emergency tasks. In some areas, maintenance is entrusted to local trail-building associations coordinated by the FOR Consortium. This essential work is primarily funded through revenue from the FOR YOU CARD project, which is expected to generate around €100,000 in 2024—covering at least 6,000 hours of work across all areas. Additional resources for the trail network maintenance project are also provided through the support of local administrations, donations, and partners of the Finale Outdoor Region.

Work Funded Through Crowdfunding and Restoration Plan (October 28 - November 20)

The higher part of Cà Bianca before and after the maintenance.

The lower part of Hiroshima Mon Amour before and after the maintenance.

Oltrefinale before and after the maintenace.

The backcountry and Levante Areas 

The nice weather last week allowed trail builders and local associations in the backcountry areas to work on the trails. In Bardineto, the Mulino, Appendaun, Pianfieno, and Dondella trails have already been reopened, along with most of the trails in Val Neva and Osiglia are ready to ride.

Please note that the Bardineto trail network is currently accessible only by bike due to restrictions in the Carmo-Settepani Special Conservation Zone, as well as shuttle traffic limitations caused by the temporary closure of SP52 at the bridge over Rio Gorra.

In Spotorno, some trails have already been maintained and are accessible, while others, like La Folia, will require additional work. Trail builders are actively working to restore trail access as soon as possible.

The ground is still waterlogged, and new landslides, collapses, and dry-stone wall failures are reported daily.

Please ride with caution and report any damage to our Info Point (Mobile +39 338 746 9962), ideally with a photo and the exact location (shareable on WhatsApp).

Low Trails and Plateaus

The plateaus and low trails have also suffered damage, with reports of sinkholes, collapsed dry-stone walls, and fallen trees. Extensive work has been carried out in the Monte Grosso and Ranzi areas, and maintenance is already scheduled for the 24H of Finale trail. However, repairs will also be needed on the uphill e-mtb variants, Voltage and Radici.

The situation is more complex along the Via dei Ponti Romani in Val Ponci. This essential route, popular with hikers as well, will require a more comprehensive restoration intervention.

Val Ponci -  Ponti Romani

Use of the Extra Budget Use for Additional Projects

With the primary trail restoration work now completed, we hope to allocate a portion of the budget raised through donations—exceeding all expectations—to new initiatives. These may include the restoration of certain gravel roads (pending approval from the relevant municipalities) or support projects for organizations dedicated to local safety. Such associations are increasingly called upon to address the impact of severe weather events, which, unfortunately, are becoming more frequent.

Why Support the FOR YOU CARD Project

Purchasing the FOR YOU CARD, choosing operators that support the project, and requesting points for each purchase (at no extra cost) is the best way to support the region and help sustain the vital work required to keep the trails of the Finale Outdoor Region accessible and well-maintained.