u/Expensive_Bowl_1471

I am an experienced mountain runner, and have run up several other 3,000m mountains/volcanos. My understanding with Mt. Etna is that there is a cutoff around 2,900m after which you are not allowed to continue without a licensed guide?

That's fine for me, I don't need to make it to the very top. However, are you able to get to the 2,900m point without a ticket? What is the trail like, and are you simply running up the same road used by the 4x4x? Any experience from other runners or hikers welcome.

I am thinking of taking the more popular southern route because then my partner (not a runner!) can take the cable car and 4x4 and hopefully we can meet near the top 😄