Abruzzo National Park, 8 recommended summer walks

Snowshoeing in Pescasseroli: Discover the Magic of Winter in the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park. When snow blankets the mountains and valleys of Pescasseroli in silence and beauty, nature seems to slumber under its white cover. Yet, it lives and breathes in a profound quiet, waiting to be discovered. Participating in a snowshoeing excursion in Pescasseroli means immersing yourself in the magic of the Abruzzo winter, step by step, in an authentic experience that combines wonder, respect, and awareness.

Snowshoeing in Pescasseroli: An Experience of Nature and Mindfulness

Snowshoeing in the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park is a unique opportunity to explore snow-covered forests and enchanting highlands at the foot of the mountains. It’s a different way to experience the cold season: away from the crowds, in direct contact with nature, surrounded by landscapes that seem frozen in time. During winter excursions in Pescasseroli, you can rediscover the joy of slow walking, observation, and silence. Every step in fresh snow becomes an invitation to reflection, an intimate dialogue with the mountains and with yourself. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, the snowshoe trails in the heart of Abruzzo promise authentic emotions and unforgettable scenery.

Where to Go Snowshoeing in Pescasseroli

1. Snowshoeing in Difesa di Pescasseroli – The Fairy Tale Forest

If it’s your first time trying snowshoes, a slow-paced excursion in the heart of Difesa di Pescasseroli is perfect for you. This trail guides you, like the pages of a book, through the wonders of winter. Walking in the quiet forests, you might spot the elusive pine marten or the small paw prints of the wild cat.

The route starts at Centro Ippico Agriturismo Valle Cupa, from where you can take trail C2 through an ancient wooded pasture nestled among steep mountains, dotted with monumental beech trees shaped like “candelabras” – a traditional pruning method used for firewood and fodder for livestock.

2. Snowshoeing in Terraegna Valley, Pescasseroli

One of the most evocative winter trails in the park leads to Terraegna Valley, a vast highland northeast of Pescasseroli. In summer, it’s a green expanse with ancient cattle tracks and grazing herds; in winter, it transforms into a snow-covered fairy tale landscape. Snowshoeing in Terraegna immerses you in deep silence, broken only by the crunch of your footsteps in fresh snow. The trail is gentle and panoramic, perfect for a longer, authentic winter experience.

From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the park’s mountains, including Monte Marsicano, Val di Corte, and the entire Montagna Grande ridge. On clear days, the white peaks blend with the blue sky, creating a spectacle that leaves you speechless. With some luck, you might spot wildlife such as deer, foxes, and wolves moving silently through the surrounding woods.

You can reach Terraegna via two routes: a three-hour walk following trail A1 from the town center, or an easier access from 1,350 meters above sea level via trail Z1 from Templo, halfway between Pescasseroli and Bisegna.

3. Snowshoeing in the Forests of Forca d’Acero and Macchiarvana

A snowshoe hike in Forca d’Acero and Macchiarvana is a journey into the magic of the snow-covered Apennines. Forca d’Acero, over 1,500 meters above sea level, marks a striking mountain pass between Pescasseroli and Lazio region. In winter, the area transforms into a Nordic-like landscape, with soft snow fields and rows of bare trees stretching to the horizon.

This trail is suitable for everyone – from beginners to families with children – thanks to its gentle terrain. It’s also one of the best spots to watch winter sunsets, when the sun paints the peaks of Monte Marsicano in pink and gold, and the forest grows even more silent. Macchiarvana is about 13 km from Pescasseroli and is easily reachable by car via SR509, with panoramic views along the way. Once parked, you can explore the forests through trails C1 and P2.

4. Moonlit Snowshoeing from Pescasseroli on Colli Alti

For those who want to experience the enchantment of the forest at night under a full moon, trails A9 and D6 offer magical excursions. The snow reflects the moonlight, allowing long stretches without a torch. This activity requires caution and preparation: always check snow and weather conditions, dress in layers, and consider hiring local guides if unfamiliar with the terrain.

5. The Lago Vivo Winter Loop

From Barrea, embark on a winter trek at the foot of the Monti della Meta, along trails K6 and K4. Lago Vivo, nestled in a karst basin at the foot of one of the park’s most spectacular natural amphitheaters, becomes a magical snowshoeing destination. When snow blankets the pastures and forests, every path turns into a white carpet. Even if partially frozen or drained, the lake offers fairy-tale scenery, ideal for those who love walking in pristine nature. The winter trail around Lago Vivo winds through erratic boulders, glacial cirques, and rock outcrops, evidence of the glaciers that shaped these mountains over millennia.

6. Snowshoeing in Ziomas Valley and Ferroio di Scanno

A little north of Pescasseroli, Ziomas Valley welcomes you with serene winter landscapes of gentle slopes and karst dolines covered in snow. From the saddle overlooking Ferroio di Scanno, gaze over peaks such as Monte Godi, Monte Marsicano, the Camosciara, and Monte Petroso. Nearby, the village of Scanno – famous for photographers like Henri Cartier-Bresson and Mario Giacomelli – is worth a visit, along with its goldsmith shops and the traditional Pan dell’Orso, a soft almond, honey, and chocolate pastry.

Where to Stay in Pescasseroli

Pescasseroli offers a wide range of accommodations, from cozy B&Bs to family-run hotels with services for children. Among them, 36 Slow Living Rooms stands out with comfortable, stylish rooms, some featuring private bathtubs, perfect for relaxing after a day of snowshoeing and winter adventures.