The 5 most beautiful snowshoe hikes in Abruzzo

Have you already conquered the Alps , crossed the Vosges Mountains , and explored the Chartreuse Mountains on snowshoes ? Perhaps it's time to venture beyond the borders and leave your mark on trails other than the well-trodden paths. Head to Abruzzo , this mountainous region of Italy still too often overlooked by winter hiking enthusiasts .

Between wild mountains, a few wolves (yes, really) and breathtaking views, we take you on a journey through the top 5 most beautiful snowshoe hikes in Abruzzo to be savored slowly… like a good plate of pasta after exertion.

Spoiler alert: you are very likely to add Italy to your list of favorite snowshoeing spots .

1. Campo Imperatore – Italian Tibet

🚶 Level: easy to intermediate

↔️ Distance: 5 to 15 km depending on your loop

⛰️ Elevation gain: almost none, but you can feel the altitude

📍 Access: via the Campo Imperatore ski resort

Welcome to Campo Imperatore , a vast high-altitude plateau nestled in the heart of the Gran Sasso , often nicknamed the Italian Tibet (and frankly, it's easy to see why). At over 1,800 meters above sea level , the landscape is lunar, almost surreal: white expanses stretching as far as the eye can see, a vast blue sky, and absolute silence… just your footsteps in the snow.

This is THE iconic snowshoe hike in Abruzzo , perfect for testing your brand-new snowshoes . There are numerous routes, flexible options, and ideal for total immersion in the high mountains. You walk at a leisurely pace, breathe deeply, and feast your eyes on breathtaking scenery.

Quick tip from Muule: Don't forget a windproof and sturdy jacket (the wind likes to test your mental strength), sunglasses for the strong glare, and a breathable fleece to walk without ending up in a sauna within the first 10 minutes.

2. Altopiano delle Cinquemiglia – The great white

🚶 Level: easy to intermediate

↔️ Distance: 7 to 10 km

⛰️ Elevation gain: approximately +250 to +400 m

📍 Access: from Pescocostanzo or Rivisondoli (easy parking at the edge of the plateau)

Located on the high plateaus of the Majella Park , the Altopiano delle Cinquemiglia is an ideal playground for snowshoeing . Enjoy vast snow-covered expanses , gentle slopes, and 360° panoramic views .

This is the perfect spot for an easy and enjoyable snowshoe outing , without any technical sections or steep slopes. You can move at your own pace, making gentle tracks in the snow and enjoying a true sense of freedom . A delight for beginners as well as those who want a relaxing and stress-free hike.

Quick tip for Mule: Opt for a waterproof jacket and trousers offering true freedom of movement and Warm gloves for your best snowball fights.

3. Monte Amaro – For calves of steel

🚶 Level: Advanced

↔️ Distance: 14 km round trip

⛰️ Elevation gain: +900 m (that's a bit steep)

📍 Access: Val Fondillo car park

At 2,793 meters, Monte Amaro is the highest peak in the Majella massif . Snowshoeing here is a true alpine adventure : a long route , sustained progress, and often changing conditions. Every step is hard-earned, but the reward is well worth it.

At the summit, the panoramas are immense . On a clear day, the view stretches all the way to the Adriatic Sea , offering a striking contrast between snow-capped peaks and the sea horizon. A feeling of being at the ends of the earth is guaranteed, along with total solitude and a huge dose of satisfaction upon arrival. Here, you come to experience the mountains .

Muule's little tip: Pack a compressible down jacket to put on as soon as you stop, touring ski poles for balance and to ease the strain on your legs during the long climb, and an insulated water bottle to enjoy a hot coffee at the summit. And if you have any doubts: a mountain guide is recommended .

4. Camosciara Forest – The white paradise for animals

🚶 Level: easy

↔️ Distance: 5 to 7 km

⛰️ Elevation gain: approximately +150 to +250 m

📍 Access: Camosciara car park

Located in the heart of the Abruzzo National Park , Camosciara is an ideal place for peaceful snowshoeing . No large exposed plateaus or technical peaks, but a total immersion in unspoiled and silent nature .

Under the snow, the scenery becomes magical: white forests , waterfalls frozen solid, immaculate clearings . Keep your eyes peeled; you might spot tracks of deer , chamois , or even wolves . In Camosciara, wildlife roams freely, and you're clearly just passing through. It's the perfect outing to slow down, observe, and savor another, gentler, more contemplative side of Abruzzo on snowshoes .

Quick tip from Muule: Opt for a thermoregulating baselayer to manage effort without overheating, warm ski socks to keep feet happy throughout the outing, and a neck warmer to protect against the cold during breaks in the shade.

5. Lake Barrea – Winter Postcard

🚶 Level: easy

↔️ Distance: 4 to 7 km

⛰️ Elevation gain: approximately +100 to +250 m

📍 Access: from the village of Barrea (easy parking near the lake)

The final gem on this list: Lago di Barrea . A lake nestled in the heart of the mountains , bordered by snow-covered forests, and overlooked by the perched village of Barrea . Suffice it to say, the scene is set. Enjoy a snowshoe hike in a spirit of pleasure and contemplation, on easy trails that run alongside the lake or climb a little higher to admire the panorama.

In winter, the light is soft, the contrasts sublime between the dark water, the white snow , and the surrounding mountains . Every turn is a postcard view, and photo stops quickly become mandatory (even for those of us less Instagrammable). Ideal for an accessible snowshoe hike , perfect for families, friends, or for ending a stay in Abruzzo without getting completely exhausted.

Muule's little tip: For this outing around the lake, opt for a comfortable mountaineering backpack to keep the essentials within easy reach, a warm hat and a windproof jacket to manage the cold when the wind picks up.

Ready to put on your snowshoes in Abruzzo?

Between vast wilderness areas , winter silence, and panoramas that make you want to stop every 200 meters, Abruzzo is a dream destination for snowshoeing . Whether you're looking for accessible outings , more challenging hikes , or simply a timeless moment in the snow, Abruzzo offers the rare freedom to explore far from the crowds . A winter adventure to savor slowly, without pressure. And with a pair of snowshoes , it's even better. So put on your winter boots , pack your backpack , and head out to feast your eyes (and your calves).

So, Muules , ready to leave your snowshoe prints in the Italian snow?

Article written by Sarah de Muule on January 21, 2026