8-Gipfel-Marsch (8-Peak March)

Eight peaks in a single day

The 8-Gipfel-Marsch (8-Peak March) is one of the most demanding mountaineering adventures in Trentino-South Tyrol. From Glorenza/Glurns, the small walled medieval town in the Upper Vinschgau Valley, participants tackle a route of approximately 25 kilometers with 3,000 meters of elevation gain to conquer eight peaks along the ridge overlooking the valley, ending at the Stelvio Pass (Stilfserjoch). The event takes place entirely within the Stelvio National Park, in the municipality of Glorenza, in the Province of Bolzano.

An itinerary for true mountaineers

The march starts from the historic center and climbs to the Glurnser Köpfl (2,395 m), continuing from peak to peak along the border ridge: Plaschweller (2,534 m), Piz Chavalatsch (2,763 m), Piz Sielva (2,855 m), Piz Minschuns (2,935 m), the Furkelspitze (3,004 m, the highest point of the route), the Großer Tartscher Kopf (2,952 m), and the Korspitze (2,935 m). The finish line is the Stelvio Pass, reached after about twelve hours of continuous hiking across challenging terrain.

A traditional night-time start

The unique feature of the 8-Gipfel-Marsch is its departure in the middle of the night, at 3:30 AM, which begins with a religious service at the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) in Glorenza. The idea for the march was born from the local parish priest, and this bond with the local community remains the hallmark of the event today. From the Festgelände of the Glurns Festival, the marchers set off, equipped with a map to collect stamps from each peak reached.

Requirements and spirit of the event

This is no casual walk: the route requires a head for heights, sure-footedness, and excellent physical fitness, as some sections are exposed. Participation is restricted to those aged 16 and over. More than just a competition, the 8-Gipfel-Marsch is a test of endurance and a collective experience that brings together mountaineers from across the Alps under the peaks of the Upper Vinschgau Valley.

A non-annual event

Unlike many summer events, the 8-Gipfel-Marsch is not held every year: the 2025 edition (the 23rd) took place on July 26th, while the next edition is expected in 2027. Dates for the 2026 edition have not yet been announced. The event is organized by Glurns Marketing.