The best walks and hikes around Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga

Embark on a difficult hike to Corno Grande (Gran Sasso) from Campo Imperatore, covering 6.1 miles (9.9 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2617 feet (798 metres). This challenging route, which typically takes 5 hours and 26 minutes, begins on a wide track from the old Albergo at Campo Imperatore, a vast plateau known as "Little Tibet." As you ascend, the path narrows, leading you through rocky steps and steep scree slopes where you might need to use your hands for balance. The trail is well-marked with red-and-yellow or red-and-white indicators, guiding you towards extraordinary views. From Sella di Monte Aquila, you can admire the panoramic Campo Pericoli valley and the majestic Corno Grande itself, offering a truly Alpine experience. You will also glimpse the Calderone basin, home to Europe's southernmost glacier. This route is classified as difficult, requiring good physical fitness and sure-footedness. If you suffer from vertigo, this trail is generally not recommended. Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the rocky and scree sections, and trekking poles can provide extra stability. Be prepared for strong winds and sudden weather changes, as snow and ice can persist until early summer and late in the season. This iconic trail leads to the Western Peak of Corno Grande, which at 2,912 meters is the highest point in the entire Apennine Mountains. Starting from Campo Imperatore, a vast plateau famed for its "Little Tibet" moniker, you are within the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. The route offers a unique opportunity to experience one of Italy's most significant mountain landscapes.

The "Climb Monte Camicia from rifugio Fonte Vetica" is a difficult ring tour, stretching 5.7 miles (9.2 km) with a significant 3005 feet (916 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking 5 hours and 9 minutes to complete. This challenging hike requires good fitness and sure-footedness as you traverse varied terrain, from pine forests to steep zigzags, rocky areas, and wide scree slopes. You will encounter exposed sections, especially near the dramatic 1400-meter vertical drop of Monte Camicia's north face, often called "the Eiger of the Apennines." From the summit, enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Campo Imperatore plateau, Monte Prena, and Corno Grande.

Be aware that the original starting point, Rifugio Fonte Vetica, was destroyed by fire in 2021, so you should check current access points and conditions before you go. Some sections of the trail, particularly those leading up from Fonte Vetica, have been affected by landslides and may lack clear signage or have fallen trees. Always be prepared for potential strong winds and sudden weather changes in the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park, especially if you hike outside of summer.

This route offers a unique opportunity to traverse the "balconies of Monte Camicia," providing dizzying views over the sheer north face. The loop often includes reaching the summit of Monte Tremoggia and forms part of the longer "Sentiero del Centenario," which connects several important Gran Sasso summits. Keep an eye out for chamois, which are often seen in the area, and admire the rich display of edelweiss at Sella di Fonte Fredda.

Embark on a challenging 3.8-mile (6.1 km) hike to Monte Aquila from Campo Imperatore, gaining 1099 feet (335 metres) in about 2 hours and 33 minutes. The trail begins on a wide, loose path near the observatory, then narrows to a singletrack with zigzags and steep sections as you climb towards Sella di Monte Aquila. You will traverse gravel and alpine terrain, with views of the vast Campo Imperatore plateau unfolding below you. Keep an eye out for mountain flora like edelweiss and red lilies, and enjoy the expansive panoramas of the Gran Sasso massif, including the majestic Corno Grande, as you approach the summit marked by a metallic red cross.

This difficult route requires good fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy shoes, as some sections can be technical. Even in July, you might encounter snow patches, so be prepared for varied conditions. While the initial parts to Sella di Monte Aquila are sometimes considered more moderate, the full ascent to Monte Aquila demands alpine experience. Plan your visit carefully, considering the terrain and the need for appropriate gear to safely navigate the higher elevations.

The Monte Aquila trail is celebrated for offering some of the most spectacular views in the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park. Beyond the stunning vistas, the route provides access to historic mountain refuges like Rifugio Garibaldi and Rifugio Duca degli Abruzzi, perfect for a rest. You are hiking through a unique and wild mountain landscape, where you might spot chamois or even the elusive Apennine wolf. The area also holds historical significance, as Campo Imperatore was famously where Benito Mussolini was imprisoned in 1943.

Embark on the Valley of the Hundred Waterfalls Loop from Cesacastina, a moderate hike that takes you through lush beech forests and past meadows vibrant with wildflowers in spring. This 5.4-mile (8.7 km) route features a continuous series of water jumps and slides as the Fosso dell'Acero stream cascades over extensive sandstone slabs. You will gain 1479 feet (451 metres) in elevation, with the entire loop typically taking around 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete at a steady pace.

When planning your visit, be aware that the sandstone slabs along the trail can be extremely slippery, especially after rain, so exercise caution and avoid stepping directly into the water. The trail starts near Cesacastina, and you can usually find parking after driving a short distance on a dirt road from the main village. This route is considered moderate, so you should have good fitness and sure-footedness to enjoy it fully.

This loop offers a rewarding experience within the heart of the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, showcasing the unique natural beauty of the Valley of the Hundred Waterfalls. As you hike, you will enjoy views extending towards the Cime della Laghetta and Monte Gorzano, which is the highest peak in the Monti della Laga range. The trail's distinctive geology, with its numerous waterfalls and cascades, makes it a notable highlight of the region.