The story of a climb and its community
Vertical Scalaro is not just an uphill race; it is an act of love for the local area, a ritual that unites Quincinetto with its mountain. Its history stems from the deep bond between the community and the Scalaro valley, a place that has always held a special fascination: a natural amphitheater of peaks, pastures and silence, where the town appears like a small jewel set in the rock.
The origins
On the last weekend of July, Scalaro celebrates the patron saint’s day of San Quirico. The event is organized by the “priori,” a couple from Quincinetto who, according to Canavese tradition, take on the practical and symbolic care of the little church and the festival for one year. Together with the Municipality of Quincinetto and the Quinci Tava association, they keep alive a tradition that draws residents, friends, and mountain enthusiasts.
In 2015, during those days of celebration, a short loop trail of about 12 km was established: a simple route, starting from the picnic area in Scalaro, climbing to the Spergiurati Pass, and returning along the historic “Strada della Leda.”
The turning point: the birth of Vertical
In 2022, the first Vertical Quincinetto–Scalaro took shape, an uphill-only race that immediately won over athletes and enthusiasts alike. Expectations were modest, but the response was surprising.
The route starts in the heart of the town and climbs steeply into the woods. A steep, intense, relentless climb: every hairpin bend is a mini-finish line, every clearing offers panoramic views and passes through small hamlets. A climb that demands a lot, but gives everything back.
A growing community
Vertical Scalaro exists thanks to the efforts of over fifty volunteers and an enthusiasm that engulfs the whole village. In June, with the start of group training, Vertical begins to make its presence felt: this is the moment when anticipation turns into shared energy and the mountain once again fills with footsteps and stories. Then July arrives and the atmosphere really comes alive: the town gets ready, the trails burst into colour and come to life.
Alongside the main race, there is a mini-race for the little ones and, from 2025, Vertical Bucias, designed for young people who want to test themselves on a challenging yet accessible course.
A run that brings the community together
That’s what Vertical Scalaro is all about: a race, a mountain, a party!