4.9
(111)
597
hikers
Monte Aquila from Campo Imperatore
02:33
6.07km
340m
Hiking
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.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 2.42 km for 1.23 km
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.02 km
Monte Aquila Summit
Highlight • Summit
The top characterized by a metallic red cross offers a breathtaking panoramic view.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.72 km
Panoramic view of Campo Imperatore and the Gran Sasso
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
5.85 km
Abruzzo Astronomical Observatory
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.07 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.62 km
1.26 km
646 m
314 m
232 m
Surfaces
4.67 km
1.26 km
150 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Sunday 17 May
13°C
6°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
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Trail Reviews
Nice easy tour, excellent to do with your girlfriend who is afraid of the mountains
The starting point of our tour was the parking lot at the mountain station of the Gran Sasso cable car (2130 m) at Campo Imperatore. Here we laced up our hiking boots and backpacks and headed past the observatory to the left. We followed the path to a fork, where we followed the sign for Sella di Monte Aquila. Arrived on the Sella di Monte Aquila (2335 m) we followed the signpost to the Corno Grande Direttissima and hiked comfortably downhill between blooming meadows. Further on, over a gravel field, the path climbed steeply to the saddle. Here we went over the ridge to the summit of Monte Aquila (2498 m) and enjoyed what was the highest picnic for us with a fantastic view, at least to the east. The clouds were just moving over the mountains from the west, which blocked our view, but offered a beautiful natural spectacle. The descent led us back to the Sella di Monte Aquila. Here we followed the signpost to the Rifugio Duca degli Abruzzi, a small managed hut. We first followed the path along the saddle. We ran first to the right, after a stony ascent to the left below the ridge and at the end over the ridge to the hut (2388 m). Here we again enjoyed the view to the fullest before we descended along the trail following the serpentines to the starting point.
A highly suggestive trek immersed in an area of rare beauty. Definitely one of the most beautiful treks in Italy and beyond! Walking at the foot of Corno Grande means fully enjoying an uncontaminated territory within the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park. During the trek you first reach the top of Monte Aquila at almost 2,500 m, and then enjoy a well-deserved stop at the famous Rifugio Duca degli Abruzzi. Explore the tour on https://eorapedala.it/trekking-gran-sasso/
We leave behind the 35 degrees of Civitavecchia with 80% humidity, heading towards Gran Sasso. We arrive at Campo Imperatore and the music already changes, 19/20 degrees and a strong wind from the west decree the awakening of our poor carcasses. I could not resist the unstoppable desire to cross the still snow-covered passages despite the relentless heat. It was primordial pleasure The rest speaks for itself On the way back the temperature suddenly drops to 11 degrees and a violent hailstorm, which also slightly damaged our car, unexpectedly catches us “at the exit of a tunnel”. As the good Claudio says “at the exit of a tunnel” you don’t always find the sun. Enjoy the show 🤜🤛✌️🙏👋🔜🇮🇹 🏔️