Campolongo Pass

Overview

Campolongo Pass is a Category 1 climb that asks for genuine respect. Over 15.1 km it averages 6.63%, lifting you from a start elevation of 1190 m all the way to a summit at 2193 m. That is a net elevation gain of 1003 m, with 980 m of total ascent logged along the way — the small difference tells you the road only ever tips downward in brief, negligible moments. At altitude, thinner air compounds the effort, so the effective difficulty runs a notch above what the raw 6.63% suggests. This is a sustained mountain effort, not a short punchy wall.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The defining feature here is consistency. With an average of 6.63% and a maximum of 10.11%, the spread between typical and hardest is relatively narrow — there are no savage double-digit ramps hiding around a corner, but there is also very little true recovery. Expect long stretches sitting right around the 6-to-7% band, with the steepest pitches pressing toward that 10.11% ceiling. Because the climb starts at 1190 m and only ends once you crest 2193 m, the gradient rarely relents; you are always gaining ground. Ride it as one long, even tempo effort rather than a series of surges, and the 15.1 km will feel far more manageable.

Pacing Notes

The smartest approach to a climb this length is to anchor your effort to your FTP. At 6.63% average over 15.1 km, most riders will be climbing for a long time, so going out too hard in the first few kilometres is the classic mistake — the 1003 m of gain will find you later. Aim to settle just below threshold and hold it steady, letting the near-uniform gradient do the pacing work for you. Reserve a little extra for the pitches nudging toward 10.11%, then return to your rhythm. If you are unsure where your threshold sits, run the numbers through the FTP estimator before you commit to a target. Consistent power beats heroic bursts on a climb shaped like this one.

Gearing

For 15.1 km averaging 6.63% with ramps to 10.11%, prioritise a low bailout gear over pride. A compact 34-tooth front paired with a wide cassette is the sensible baseline. A 34×32 will serve strong, well-conditioned climbers who can hold tempo comfortably, but if you want insurance for the steeper pitches — or you simply want to spin rather than grind at 2193 m of altitude — step up to 34×34. The lower ratio keeps your cadence alive on the toughest sections and protects your legs across a climb where you will be pedalling continuously for the full 1003 m of gain. When in doubt on a Category 1 ascent, choose the easier gear.

Summary

Campolongo Pass rewards patience: even pacing, a low gear, and a steady eye on your threshold turn a demanding 1003 m ascent into a satisfying day in the mountains. Keep it smooth, respect the altitude, and let the consistent gradient carry your rhythm to the top.

Length: 15.1 km
Average gradient: 6.63%
Max gradient: 10.11%
Start: 1190 m
Summit: 2193 m
Net gain: 1003 m
Total ascent: 980 m
Category: 1