Monte Zoufplan: Driving the narrow 1,343m climb in Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Located in the Province of Udine, within the Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Monte Zoufplan is a high mountain peak reaching an elevation of 1,968m (6,456ft) above sea level. Situated in the heart of the Alpi Carniche Centrali, the road to the summit is a hidden gem for adventure seekers, offering a mix of extreme vertical gain and high-altitude technical driving.
| Road facts: Monte Zoufplan | |
|---|---|
| Location | Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy |
| Elevation | 1,968 m (6,456 ft) |
| Length | 15.9 km (9.8 miles) |
| Elevation Gain | 1,343 m |
| Average Gradient | 8.44% |
Where is Monte Zoufplan?
The peak is located in the northeastern part of Italy, near the border with Austria. The road to the summit starts from the small village of Cercivento. From the top, the panoramic views are exceptional, extending towards the north over the Monte Croce Carnico pass and the surrounding rugged peaks of the Carnic Alps. At the summit, you will find a strategic building that houses a weather radar and specialized equipment used to detect seismic movements, highlighting the peak's isolated and prominent position.
Is the road to Monte Zoufplan paved?
The road to Monte Zoufplan is a hybrid route that tests both your nerves and your vehicle's tires. The first 10 kilometers are paved, but the road is exceptionally narrow, often just wide enough for a single vehicle. As you approach the summit, the pavement gives way to 5 kilometers of unpaved gravel track. As seen in recent images, this upper section is a classic mountain trail that can be quite intimidating. It is considered a dangerous drive due to the severe drop-offs and the lack of guardrails. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the final unpaved stretch, where the surface can be loose and unpredictable after mountain storms.
How long is the road to Monte Zoufplan?
Starting from Cercivento, the ascent is 15.9 km (9.8 miles) long. This is a massive climb by any standard, overcoming a total elevation gain of 1,343 meters. The average gradient is 8.44%, but this includes several sustained ramps that are much steeper. The climb is relentless, winding through thick forests before emerging into the open, wind-swept ridges of the upper mountain. Drivers must manage their speed carefully; the narrowness of the road means that meeting an oncoming vehicle requires extreme caution and, often, a long reverse maneuver to a passing point.
Is the road to Monte Zoufplan open in winter?
No, due to its high elevation and northern location, the road to Monte Zoufplan is totally impassable during the winter months. The upper gravel sections are buried under deep snow, and the narrow paved road below is often covered in ice and debris from the steep slopes. The track typically only becomes accessible from late June until early October. Even in summer, the weather in the Carnic Alps can change rapidly, with heavy fog frequently rolling in and reducing visibility on the steep edges to near zero. Always check the local forecast and ensure your vehicle is mechanically prepared for such a significant vertical ascent.