From Scanno to Pescasseroli: a memorable crossing in the Abruzzo National Park
- balzoscanno
- Mar 27
- 5 min read
Have you ever considered crossing the Abruzzo National Park, immersing yourself in breathtaking landscapes and paths rich in history?
This route, from Scanno to Pescasseroli, offers you a unique experience, combining the beauty of nature with the discovery of charming villages. Get ready for an excursion that will take you through alpine meadows, lush forests and unforgettable views.
The beginning of the adventure: Località Le Prata
Your journey begins from Località Le Prata, an area just 13 minutes by car from Scanno. To recognize it, you just need to locate the statue of Pope John Paul II, which marks the beginning of the avenue.
This area is famous for its agritourisms, where you can taste typical local dishes, such as quality cheeses and meat. One of the best known is the Bioagriturismo Valle Scannese, known throughout Italy for its excellent dairy products.
Warning: The road to get there could be bumpy. If you do not have a suitable vehicle, leave the car near Bioagriturismo Valle Scannese and continue on foot.
To get to your destination there will be a mix of paths to take. All of these that I am going to indicate are part of the network of paths of the Abruzzo National Park (PNALM),
If from here you want to reach Passo Godi, in this article we have summarized the main ways you have to get there on foot.
Stage 1: Path Y8, between nature and tradition
• Start: Bioagriturismo Valle Scannese, at 1233 meters
• Arrival: Valico del Campitello, 1864 meters
• Estimated duration: About 3 hours
• Distance: 4.2 km
• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
The Y8 trail immediately immerses you in nature, crossing woods and alpine meadows. Along the way, you will reach the Stazzo del Campo, a shepherd's refuge where you can rest.
If you take this trail at the right time (around May/June), you will be able to see the lush prairie of orapi. This is a green leafy vegetable typical of the Apennines, used in Scanno cuisine to season cazzlitt', homemade gnocchi made with water and flour.
This stretch is an excellent introduction to the wild beauty of the park. From this point you rejoin the A4 trail. In the entire itinerary, this will be the only path that you will have to follow in its entirety, while of the other two that I am about to indicate you will have to follow only a part.
Stage 2: Path A4, towards Prato Rosso refuge
• Departure: Valico del Campitello, 1864 meters
• Arrival: Prato Rosso refuge, 1536 meters
• Estimated duration: 1/1.30 hours approximately
• Distance: approximately 3 km
• Difficulty: E
From here on, it will be all downhill to our final destination.
The A4 trail will lead you to the Prato Rosso refuge. This stretch will allow you to immerse yourself even more in the heart of the park, with its unique flora and fauna. The Prato Rosso refuge is an ideal stopping point to refresh yourself before tackling the last stretch of your hike.
To get an idea of the natural wonders you might encounter along the way, you can browse the free e-book of photographs by nature photographer Giancarlo Mancori.
Always remember that you are in a protected area, so respect the PNALM rules of conduct, so as not to significantly alter the balance of the animal species of the place.
Note: it is not possible to walk with animals on a leash along this stretch.
Stage 3: Path A1 - Direction Pescasseroli
• Start: Rifugio Prato Rosso, 1536 meters
• Finish: Pescasseroli, 1167 meters
• Estimated duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes - 2 hours, depending on your pace
• Distance: about 7 km
• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
You are now on the A1 trail, the main route that will take you to Pescasseroli. This passes through shaded woods and large plateaus.
Once you reach the final stretch of the route, you have three main options for reaching Pescasseroli. Here is a short guide to help you choose the one that best suits you:
Trail A1: this is the main trail, the most direct and simple. It passes through shaded woods and large plateaus, leading you gently to the center of Pescasseroli. Ideal for those who want to end the hike without too many detours.
Trail A9: this route offers a slightly longer route, but offers unique panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Perfect for those who want to enjoy a different view and slightly lengthen the walk.
Trail D6: a more adventurous variant, which crosses wilder and less beaten paths. It requires a little more attention, but is ideal for those looking for an immersive experience in uncontaminated nature.
Whatever your choice, all the trails are well marked thanks to the work of the Abruzzo National Park!
The arrival in Pescasseroli: a perfect conclusion
Pescasseroli, the beating heart of the Abruzzo National Park, will welcome you with its lively atmosphere and numerous opportunities to end the day, especially during the summer season.
Here you can:
• Reward yourself with an excellent aperitif.
• Taste the typical dishes of the Abruzzo tradition.
• Visit the Park Visitor Center.
• Stroll through the streets of the village, among shops and artisan workshops.
Itinerary summary
Let's briefly recap the complete itinerary of this suggestive crossing:
• Departure: Bioagriturismo Valle Scannese, 1233 meters
• Arrival: Pescasseroli, 1167 meters
• Highest point: Valico del Campitello, 1865 meters
• Distance: about 14 km
• Estimated duration: 5.00 - 5.30 hours, depending on the pace
• Difficulty: E (Hiking), according to the CAI classification
Useful tips for the excursion
• Wear hiking shoes and clothing appropriate for the season.
• Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat.
• Bring snacks or a packed lunch
• Always check the weather conditions and any trail closures on the PNALM website.
• Respect the park's rules of conduct to preserve its natural beauty.
• Be aware of your physical preparation and choose the variant of arrival in Pescasseroli that best suits your abilities.
• Remember that dogs are not allowed in this part of the park.
Currently there is no public transport connecting Pescasseroli with Scanno, which is why we at Balzo have chosen to provide you with dedicated transport, so that you can experience this splendid crossing without having to worry about logistics.
To help you experience this adventure without worries, we offer you:
• Shuttle from Scanno and Villalago to Località Le Prata.
• Geolocalized map to orient yourself even more easily along the route.
• All the time you need to enjoy the excursion and visit Pescasseroli.
• Return shuttle to take you comfortably back to Scanno and Villalago
Get ready for the Adventure!
Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in a unique experience, between nature, history and breathtaking views. Book with Balzo and start your adventure in the heart of the Abruzzo National Park!