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Presena Glacier

Category
Hiking trail
Difficulty
Easy
Activity time
1:15
Durata in ore
Distance
3.5
Distance in km

Downhill hike from Capanna Presena to Lago del Monticello, through landscapes shaped by glaciers and testimony of the Great War at Passo del Tonale.

Starting from Capanna Presena (2,753 m), this short downhill hike leads to Lago del Monticello, a glacial basin nestled between the peaks of Presena and Tonale. The trail, simple and panoramic, crosses high mountain environments recently freed by retreating glaciers, offering a unique glimpse into the power of nature. Along the path you can admire the Brotherhood Monument and the Paradiso Gallery – “Sounds and Voices of the White War” – with testimonies of the First World War fought here, at over 2,500 meters altitude. You will also encounter remains of trenches and Austro-Hungarian and Italian positions that recall the harsh living conditions of the soldiers. Upon reaching Lago del Monticello, the turquoise waters reflect the surrounding peaks, giving a moment of silence and contemplation before returning to Tonale. A hike that combines history, nature, and spectacular glacial landscapes.

Route info

Easy
Distance
3.5 km
Activity time
1:15 h.
Uphill Elevation
160 m
Downhill elevation
160 m
Physical effort
Scenary
Highest point
2735 m
Lowest point
2577 m
Height difference
158 m

Copyright

APT Valli di Sole, Peio e Rabbi

Suggestions

The hike does not present particular technical difficulties, but it is important to dress appropriately here as you move at altitudes above 2500 meters above sea level.

Safety information

To face a mountain hike we suggest you:

  • choose a route suitable for your preparation. If in doubt, contact the Mountain Guides or our Information Offices
  • prepare your hike: check the weather forecast, the route you will follow and the opening hours of lifts, if your itinerary involves their use. Remember that the passability of routes in a mountain environment is strictly linked to current conditions and therefore depends on natural phenomena, environmental changes and weather conditions. For this reason, get good information about the route and its conditions
  • before leaving, leave information about your itinerary, approximate return time, and take your mobile phone with you
  • pay attention to the signs and markings you find on the route: Stelvio Park signs, SAT white and red signs, and red and white brushstrokes on stones or trees
  • book in advance the mountain hut or refuge where you intend to stop to eat or sleep
  • never abandon waste at altitude and, if possible, avoid leaving it at the refuges or mountain huts you visit
  • if you spot wild animals along the route, we invite you to stay on the path you are on, do not approach too closely, do not shout, and keep your dog on a leash to avoid it instinctively chasing and frightening them

Starting point

Capanna Presena

Directions

After getting off the Presena cable car at the intermediate station, head downhill towards the lakes, first on a wide granite road, then continuing on the SM14B military trail up to the Brotherhood monument. The last stretch to the Paradiso gallery is again on the road.

Public transportation

Trento-Malè-Mezzana railway to Mezzana, then B646 bus to Passo Tonale

How to get there

Follow SS42 until you reach Passo del Tonale.

Where to park

Free parking at Paradiso cable car

Paradiso cable car, SS 42, 36, 25056 Ponte di Legno BS

For a mountain hike it is always useful to:

  • wear trekking boots suitable for uneven, irregular and wet ground, long pants, hat and sunglasses
  • put a waterproof jacket, a fleece sweater, hat and gloves, sunscreen, and minimum spare clothing in your backpack
  • bring a water bottle and snacks for energy drops (dried fruit, bars or chocolate)
  • don't forget a camera or mobile phone to capture the views and scenes you like best. If you'd like, you can share them on social media using #visitvaldisole