Col dei S'Cios: Driving the scenic Strada della Dorsale in Pordenone
Col dei S'Cios is a mountain pass at an elevation of 1,342 meters (4,402 ft) above sea level, located in the Carnic Prealps within the Province of Pordenone, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy. The pass is traversed by the unpaved Strada della Dorsale Interna del Cavallo, running along the ridge above the Venetian plains.
| Road facts: Col dei S'Cios | |
|---|---|
| Location | Piancavallo, Pordenone, Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Italy) |
| Elevation | 1,342 m (4,402 ft) |
| Length | 20.8 km (12.9 miles) |
| Road Name | Strada della Dorsale Interna del Cavallo |
| Hairpin Turns | 7 switchbacks |
| Surface | Unpaved gravel with concrete ramps |
Where is Col dei S'Cios located?
The pass lies on the ridge line of the Cansiglio plateau sector. The 20.8-kilometer route, designated as the Strada della Dorsale Interna del Cavallo, connects the ski resort of Piancavallo with the SP61 road near the Veneto border.
What are the surface and driving conditions on Col dei S'Cios?
The 20.8-kilometer track is primarily loose gravel, limestone stones, and dirt, incorporating 7 sharp hairpin turns. Concrete slabs cover the steepest incline ramps along the northern slope to prevent tires from spinning. A high-clearance vehicle is required to clear loose stones and deep ruts along the ridge.
What hazards exist on the Strada della Dorsale track?
The narrow single-lane route lacks safety barriers along exposed slopes. Wet weather or morning frost makes the concrete ramps slick, while heavy rain washes loose stones onto the track. There are no refueling options or vehicle services along the 20.8-kilometer ridge path between Piancavallo and the SP61 junction.
Is the road to Col dei S'Cios open in winter?
No. Deep snowdrifts and ice cover the unpaved track from November through late May. Snowplows do not maintain the ridge route, leaving it inaccessible to motor vehicles outside the summer and early autumn months.