Trail del Forte – Agostino Benedetto Memorial Race

A race inside Europe's largest alpine fortress

The Trail del Forte – Agostino Benedetto Memorial is a mountain running race held in Fenestrelle, in the heart of the Chisone Valley, within the Metropolitan City of Turin (Piedmont). Its signature feature is the start at the Fenestrelle Fortress, the most extensive alpine fortification in Europe, a 17th-century military complex that climbs the mountainside, connecting its various structures via the famous covered 4,000-step staircase. Tackling this climb right from the first minutes of the race is what makes the Trail del Forte a unique event in the Piedmontese trail running scene.

The Course

The route covers approximately 19 km with a total elevation gain of about 1,300 meters. After ascending the 4,000-step staircase, the course joins the Agostino Benedetto trail, continues to the Selleries Refuge, and descends through the Puy area to return to Fenestrelle. It is a technical and scenic route that crosses forests and high-altitude meadows, offering stunning views of the valley and surrounding peaks.

The Memory of Agostino Benedetto

The race is named in memory of Agostino Benedetto, a figure deeply connected to the local mountaineering and running community; the trail the race follows is also dedicated to him. The Memorial keeps alive the memory of someone who helped make this part of the Pinerolo mountains known and loved.

Organization and CAI Pinerolo

The event is organized by ASD APS SportivaMente of Prarostino, with the support of the Pinerolo Section of the CAI (Italian Alpine Club), UISP, and the patronage of the Metropolitan City of Turin. This edition is part of the calendar of initiatives for the centenary of the Pinerolo section of the Italian Alpine Club, an anniversary also celebrated with the inauguration of the new "Anello del Chisone" nature trail.

Why Participate

• The spectacular start from the Fenestrelle Fortress and the climb up the 4,000-step staircase.
• A true mountain running course, passing through alpine refuges and scenic paths in the Chisone Valley.
• The atmosphere of a community race, deeply rooted in the Pinerolo territory and its mountaineering traditions.

For mountain-loving runners and those who enjoy discovering historical heritage while walking or running, the Trail del Forte is an opportunity to experience Fenestrelle and its fortress in a truly unique way.