Propain Trail - Flipsi Trail

Trail length: 7 km
Elevation loss: -780 m
Tour difficulty level: S2

Let yourself go with the flow on the Flipsi Trail, a real must for every mountain biker in the Vinschgau (Val Venosta). In the mild climate of the South Tyrolean Alps, this route offers moments of joy for beginners and advanced riders alike from spring to late autumn. The trail is named after the Vinschgau mountain biker Flipsi, Philip Walder (†).

The tour starts in the village of Vetzan (Schlanders). After a short, steep climb through colourful apple orchards and vineyards, a moderate climb of 800 m in elevation leads up to the Patsch farm. The climb takes about two hours and is mostly on asphalt roads, except for the last metres of elevation, which are covered on gravel roads.

Once at the top, the panorama makes up for the effort of the climb. But the trail is already calling, because the real highlight is yet to come. The Propain Trail, built in just three months from approval to completion, winds flowingly through the terrain and throws the rider into a labyrinth of corners.

The descent is a constant alternation of left and right turns, some with wide radii, others demanding precise braking and cornering technique, especially on the tight hairpins on the steep slope. Skills such as the rear wheel hop (nose pivot) are needed here to get through without dismounting.

Between the cornering sections, the trail offers wonderful flow, and it is a pleasure to cruise through the picturesque landscape.

In the lower part of the trail, the character of the route changes. Here the trail follows a hiking path through a nature conservation area and becomes increasingly rocky. But do not worry: with average riding skills, this part can also be mastered well.

In summary, the Flipsi Trail is an exciting and varied tour that both demands riding technique and offers plenty of fun and flow. The route is therefore an absolute must for every mountain biker in the Vinschgau.

Please note that the original trail no. 14 is now reserved for hikers. The Flipsi Trail therefore serves as a bikers' alternative, which is gladly used.

During the season there are bike shuttles offering transport to the trailhead.