Canyon dello Scoppaturo — Ring tour

Embark on the Canyon dello Scoppaturo — Ring tour, an easy hike through a surreal, desert-like landscape in Italy's central Apennines. You will navigate between enormous rocky blocks and along gravel paths, experiencing a terrain carved by water and glaciers. This 4.2-mile (6.8 km) route features a gentle 284 feet (87 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. While mostly stony, you'll also find meadows dotted with wild plants like gentian, a symbol of Campo Imperatore. The unique scenery makes for a distinctive hiking experience.

This easy trail is suitable for all fitness levels, offering mostly flat and accessible paths. While not technically difficult, it is advisable to wear appropriate shoes due to the accidental ground. You should also avoid hiking on the hottest days, bringing a hat and sunscreen for protection. Be aware that the western part of the canyon can be subject to flooding until July, so plan your visit accordingly.

The Canyon dello Scoppaturo is notable for its cinematic history, having served as a filming location for numerous "spaghetti westerns," including "They Call Me Trinity." You can also discover the "Grotta della Valianara," known as the "Witch's Cave," linked to local legends. Along the route, you will find a monument dedicated to a shepherd family lost to blizzards in 1919, and *ghiaioni* or scree fields, remnants of the area's glacial past. After your hike, consider visiting nearby eateries like Ristoro Mucciante for traditional *arrosticini*.