The uphill race to the summit of Piglione Sud, in the Apuan Alps
The Piglione Vertical debuts in 2026 as an uphill running race added to the calendar of Pescaglia, a small mountain municipality in the province of Lucca, Tuscany. Organized by ASD AICS Val di Turrite with the patronage of the Municipality of Pescaglia, the event was born as a natural extension of the Piglione Trail, the trail running event that has enlivened the Val di Turrite and the slopes of the Apuan Alps for years.
The Piglione Vertical course is short on paper but extremely demanding: 6.5 km with 930 meters of elevation gain. The start is set at the Teatrino di Trebbio, in the village of Piegaio-Trebbio, at an altitude of 250 meters. From there, athletes face a continuous climb that leads them to the 1,180-meter summit of Piglione Sud, one of the most scenic peaks in the Apuan chain. The constant incline and technical trails make this race a true test of strength and endurance, suitable for those seeking the purest essence of mountain running.
The municipality of Pescaglia, nestled among forests and historic villages like Piegaio, Trebbio, and San Rocco in Turrite, offers the ideal setting for this discipline. The Apuan Alps, famous for their marble and panoramic views stretching to the Tyrrhenian Sea, provide participants with a stunning natural backdrop. The Piglione Vertical takes place on the same day as other local initiatives, helping to liven up the valley's autumn season.
The race is part of the Apuane Trail Challenge 2026 circuit, which brings together various trail and uphill running competitions across the Apuan Alps territory. For enthusiasts, it is an opportunity to test themselves on an authentic vertical track and add their results to a circuit ranking that celebrates the entire season.
The Piglione Vertical 2026 marks the first edition of this vertical race organized by ASD AICS Val di Turrite. The challenge is clear: 6.5 km of continuous ascent from the 250-meter start to the 1,180-meter summit, for a total elevation gain of 930 meters. An intense and technical race, suitable for mountain running enthusiasts, with entries limited to 100 bibs and meticulous organization in the heart of the Apuan Alps.
Aid stations and assistance are provided along the route. The race is part of the Apuane Trail Challenge 2026 circuit. For full details on awards, race packs, and shuttle logistics, please refer to the official website piglionetrail.it.
Absolute first edition of the Piglione Vertical. Continuous climb of 930m D+ in just 6.5 km, with a scenic finish on the summit of Piglione Sud. Race included in the Apuane Trail Challenge 2026 circuit, with only 100 bibs available.
Pescaglia can be reached by car from Lucca (approx. 25 km) by following signs for Val di Turrite; the start is in Piegaio-Trebbio, at the Teatrino di Trebbio. The nearest train station is in Lucca, from where you can continue by car or local connections.
The registration fee is €22, with a maximum of 100 bibs assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. A competitive medical certificate is mandatory for all participants. Registration and information are available on the official website piglionetrail.it.
Start at 8:30 AM from the Teatrino di Trebbio; the maximum time to complete the race is 2 hours and 30 minutes (finish by 11:00 AM).
Aid stations are provided along the course and at the finish line. For updated details on race packs and awards, please consult the official website and social media channels (Instagram and Facebook @piglionetrail).
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Teatrino di Trebbio, Piegaio