Smuggler's Run
Edition 2026 Nature Hiking Mountain

Smuggler's Run

Non-competitive walk on the trails of Upper Lake Como

Garzeno — Como (013) Since 2022
Dates 07 Jun — 07 Jun 2026
Location Garzeno (013)
Prices —
Status Confirmed

About Smuggler's Run

On the trails once trodden by smugglers between Italy and Switzerland, Garzeno offers the Smuggler's Run, a non-competitive walk and race that climbs from the Sanctuary of Quang to the Giovo Pass. Nine kilometers and over a thousand meters of elevation gain through the woods and panoramas of Upper Lake Como, with a dedicated route for children. An event that combines sport, mountains, historical memory, and solidarity, included in the shared calendar of the Alto Lago.

On the smugglers' paths

The Smuggler's Run is a non-competitive walk and race held in Garzeno (Province of Como), on the trails once used by smugglers along the border between Italy and Switzerland. An event that revives the historical memory of these mountains and transforms it into a sporting experience open to all, immersed in the landscape of Upper Lake Como.

The route

The main route, about 9 kilometers long, climbs from the Sanctuary of Quang in Garzeno to the Giovo Pass, with a positive elevation gain of about 1,100 meters through woods, mule tracks, and views of the lake. A dedicated route of about 1 kilometer near the Giovo Pass is planned for children.

  • Main route: approximately 9 km, +1,100 m elevation gain, from the Sanctuary of Quang to the Giovo Pass;
  • Children's route: approximately 1 km near the Giovo Pass;
  • Race kit and refreshment for participants;
  • Charitable purpose: part of the proceeds donated to local solidarity projects.

Part of the Alto Lago calendar

The event is part of the shared program "Alto Lago di Como," which brings together events from the municipalities on the upper western shore of the lake. An appointment that enhances the trails, history, and community of Garzeno and neighboring towns.

Smuggler's Run — edition 2026

The fifth edition of the Smuggler's Run takes place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM from the Sanctuary of Quang in Garzeno. A non-competitive route of approximately 9 km to the Giovo Pass (+1,100 m) and a 1 km children's route. Part of the proceeds are for charitable purposes.

The 2026 edition, the fifth, takes place on Sunday, June 7. The start of the main route is set for 9:00 AM from the Sanctuary of Quang, with arrival at the Giovo Pass after about 9 km and 1,100 meters of elevation gain. A route of about 1 km is planned for children, starting in the late morning from the Giovo Pass. Part of the proceeds are donated to a local social welfare association.

Programme Smuggler's Run 2026

Sunday, June 7

  • 9:00 AM — Start of the main route from the Sanctuary of Quang (approx. 9 km, +1,100 m, finish at Giovo Pass)
  • Approx. 11:00 AM — Start of the children's route (approx. 1 km) from Giovo Pass
  • Refreshments and race kit for participants
  • Donation of part of the proceeds for charitable purposes

Highlights Smuggler's Run 2026

Fifth edition with a 9 km route from the Sanctuary of Quang to the Giovo Pass, a route for children, and a charitable purpose.

Prices Smuggler's Run 2026

Registration fee includes race kit and refreshments (discount for early registrations).

Practical information — Smuggler's Run

How to get there

Garzeno is located in the mountains above Upper Lake Como, reachable by car from the SS340 Regina state road and from the roads leading up from Dongo and Gravedona. The start is at the Sanctuary of Quang.

Registration

Mandatory registration, with a participation fee that includes the race kit and refreshment. The main route starts at 9:00 AM; the children's route starts in the late morning from the Giovo Pass.

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Where does it take place — Smuggler's Run

Dal Santuario di Quang al Passo del Giovo

Santuario di Quang, 22010 Garzeno

Smuggler's Run in brief

Nature Hiking Mountain Heritage Family Children Sport Trail Solidarity Outdoor Como

History of Smuggler's Run