In northern Italy’s Trentino region, Adamello Brenta Nature Park stretches between two powerful alpine worlds: the rugged Adamello-Presanella Alps and the dramatic Brenta Dolomites. Though part of the Dolomites, this park feels quieter, more intimate. It’s a place where you can truly hear the crunch of gravel underfoot, the hush of pine needles in the wind, and the steady rhythm of your own breath.
In just a few days, we hiked four very different trails—and each one stirred something different in us. These hikes aren’t just scenic; they’re restorative. Whether it was the hush of a forest, the roar of a waterfall, or the vast hush of a glacial valley, each trail offered a deeper way to connect with nature—and ourselves.
Beautiful scenery along the Chiese River in Val di Fumo
1. Lake Bissina to Val di Fumo Refuge
Views: lake, river, alpine valley
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Distance: 7.9 miles (12.7 km) out & back
Elevation Gain: 987 ft (300 m)
This hike begins at Lake Bissina, a glacial-blue reservoir cradled between quiet peaks. The trail gently follows the Chiese River into Val di Fumo, and it’s like hiking into a painting. Light-blue water sparkles through alpine meadows thick with wildflowers, and the air smells like damp stone and sweet grass.
There’s a peaceful, almost reverent stillness here. As we walked, the valley opened slowly, revealing more sky and more silence. It felt like time was stretching out, asking us to linger. The Val di Fumo Refuge, perched on a hillside, offered hot cappuccino and a moment to reflect on the journey inward—both geographically and emotionally.
Scale it: Shorten the hike by turning back at the lake, or extend it deeper into the valley.
Trailhead Tip: Parking near the Malga Bissina Dam. Pre-pay here.
Refuge Perks: Full menu and restrooms.
Up close with giants on the Croz dell’Altissimo Refuge Loop hike
2. Croz dell’Altissimo Refuge Loop
Views: dramatic peaks, sweeping valley
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Distance: 6.9 miles (11.1 km) point to point
Elevation Gain: 2,155 ft (657 m)
This trail winds right into the rugged soul of the Brenta Dolomites. From Pradel, we followed a forested path into the Val delle Seghe, eventually arriving at the base of the towering Cima Croz dell’Altissimo. Though we’d hoped for clear skies, low-hanging clouds settled in—veiling the peaks in mystery.
Rather than disappointment, we felt awe. There’s something humbling about walking among giants you can’t fully see. After cappuccinos at Rifugio Croz dell’Altissimo, we hiked back to Pradel and sat quietly in the free chairs overlooking Lake Molveno. Paragliders floated down from the cliffs above, their bright wings slicing through the mist like brushstrokes. The moment that enchanted us—not just for the views, but for the joy of watching others connect with nature in their own way.
Scale it: Out-and-back to the first refuge or continue to the next two for more views.
Getting There: Park here and take the Molveno cable car to Pradel.
Refuge Perks: Full menu and restrooms.
Vallesinella Falls
3. Vallesinella Falls to Casinei Refuge
Views: waterfalls, forest
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Distance: 3.1 mile loop (5 km)
Elevation Gain: 1,062 ft (324 m)
This loop felt like walking into a secret world. We took the clockwise route to reach the waterfalls early, and had them nearly to ourselves. Water rushed down moss-covered cliffs, turning the air cool and fragrant. It felt like nature whispering.
The climb up to Casinei Refuge was steady and quiet, mostly under the canopy of spruce and fir. At the top, we enjoyed cappuccinos and looked down at the valley below. There’s a grounding feeling in hikes like this—short enough to be gentle, rich enough to be deeply nourishing.
Scale it: Out-and-back to the first refuge or explore the network of trails and refuges beyond.
Tip: Arrive early to park close to the trailhead.
Refuge Perks: Full menu and restrooms.
Nardis Waterfall
4. Nardis Waterfalls & Val Genova River Loop
Views: waterfalls, river
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Distance: 2.5-mile loop (4 km)
Elevation Gain: 456 ft (139 m)
If you need a trail to slow down and breathe, this is it. Nardis Waterfall, one of the tallest in the region at over 426 feet (130 m), is thunderous and calming all at once. We picnicked at its base, cool mist settling on our skin, hearts softening with each bite.
The loop follows the Sarca di Genova River, its steady current a companion to our thoughts. We discovered refreshing “air vents” along the way—gaps between boulders blowing cool air like nature’s hidden air conditioning. It was playful and unexpected, like the trail itself.
Tip: For 8 euros, you can park on the eastern side of the falls and walk a short distance to see them. Fro 10 euros, you can park on the western side of the falls with the option to drive about 9 miles (15 km) farther into the park. Parking attendants are onsite and they accept cash or card.
Final Reflections:
Adamello Brenta Nature Park isn’t just about big views—though it has those in spades. It’s about presence. These trails ask you to listen, breathe, notice. They invite you to go slower, look closer, and leave lighter than you arrived. If you’re searching for a few days of real connection—with the earth, with yourself—this park delivers.
