The best walks and hikes in Riserva Regionale Scanuppia

Riserva Regionale Scanuppia offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with nearly 700 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to challenging alpine ascents, catering to different fitness levels and preferences.

The reserve features diverse terrain, including extensive forests of beech, spruce, and fir at lower elevations, transitioning to larch and dwarf pine higher up. You'll also find lush pastures and high-altitude plateaus. Some trails, particularly the famous ascent from Besenello, involve steep concrete roads, while others are natural paths.

Yes, Riserva Regionale Scanuppia is known for its challenging ascents. The route from Besenello to Malga Palazzo is particularly famous for its extreme difficulty, with sections reaching an astonishing 45% gradient. This concrete road, though closed to motor traffic, attracts experienced hikers seeking a rigorous challenge. Other difficult routes, like the Vigolana Peak – Becco di Filadonna (2135 m) loop, involve significant elevation gain and require good fitness and alpine experience.

The reserve is a haven for diverse wildlife. Hikers often have the opportunity to observe capercaillies and golden eagles. Other animals present include roe deer, red deer, chamois at higher altitudes, wildcats, and even occasional wolf sightings. Various bird species, such as tits, nuthatches, and woodpeckers, also inhabit the area.

A significant landmark within the reserve is Malga Palazzo, a historic fortified mountain building constructed in 1589. It's now used for study and research. Another notable feature is the famous 'rampa del 45%' (45% ramp) on the ascent from Besenello, known as the 'steepest climb in Europe,' which is a popular spot for photos.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 5000 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views, the varied landscapes, and the rewarding challenge of its more strenuous climbs.

While many trails are challenging, Riserva Regionale Scanuppia does offer easier options. Komoot lists over 200 easy routes, typically requiring up to two hours to complete and suitable for various fitness levels. For example, the Dos del Bue Alpine Hut – Doss del Bue loop is an easy hike that can be completed in under an hour.

The Riserva Regionale Scanuppia is a protected natural area. While specific regulations regarding dogs on trails can vary, it's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash to protect the local wildlife, especially given the presence of species like deer, chamois, and various birds. Always check local signage or official park websites for the most current rules before your visit.

The diverse landscapes of Riserva Regionale Scanuppia offer different experiences throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer is ideal for higher-altitude trails. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and experience due to snow and ice conditions, especially on challenging ascents.

Yes, the reserve features several circular routes. A popular option is the Vigolana Peak – Becco di Filadonna (2135 m) loop, which offers a challenging full-day experience. For a moderate option, consider the Hiking loop from Riserva Regionale Scanuppia, which takes about 2.5 hours.

Access to Riserva Regionale Scanuppia typically involves reaching Besenello, the closest town, which may be served by local public transport. However, direct public transport into the reserve itself is limited, especially for the more remote trailheads. Planning for personal transport or checking local bus schedules to Besenello and then arranging further travel is often necessary. For detailed public transport information, it's best to consult local tourist information or transport providers in the Trentino-Alto Adige region.

Parking availability can vary depending on your chosen starting point. For routes originating from Besenello, there may be designated parking areas in or near the town. For other trailheads within or on the periphery of the reserve, look for small parking lots or roadside pull-offs. Always ensure you park legally and do not obstruct access for local residents or emergency services.