Folgarida

Experience the magic of skiing under the stars on Folgarida's illuminated Biancaneve slope. This unique activity offers a thrilling perspective of the mountain after dark, with a specially lit, well-groomed piste. It's ideal for all skill levels, providing a fun and atmospheric experience for families and friends. Operating usually once or twice a week during peak season (mid-December to mid-March), typically from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Access is included with a valid multi-day ski pass or can be purchased separately for approximately €15-€20. The slope itself is a comfortable red run, offering excellent visibility under the powerful floodlights.

For advanced skiers and snowboarders seeking untouched powder and challenging terrain, certified local mountain guides offer guided freeride and ski mountaineering tours. These excursions venture off-piste into the wild beauty of the Brenta Dolomites and the Presanella group, focusing on safety, technique, and unforgettable experiences. Tours typically range from half-day freeride sessions (approx. €150-€200 per person for a small group) to full-day ski mountaineering expeditions (approx. €250-€350 per person), including rental of safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, probe, shovel). Participants must have appropriate skills and physical fitness. Group sizes are kept small for personalized attention and safety.

The 'Sentiero dell'Orso' (Bear Trail) is a family-friendly hiking route designed to educate visitors about the brown bear population in the Adamello Brenta Nature Park. This scenic trail, starting near Folgarida, winds through beautiful forests and meadows, featuring information panels about the local wildlife and the bear's habitat. It's an easy to moderate loop trail, typically taking 2-3 hours to complete, with a moderate elevation gain of around 200-300 meters. Suitable for most fitness levels, it offers excellent opportunities for nature observation and photography. The path is generally well-maintained and accessible from late spring to early autumn.

Located within the Folgarida ski area, the Snowpark offers a dynamic playground for snowboarders and freeskiers of all levels. It features various kickers, rails, boxes, and a fun cross track designed to provide excitement and progression. The park is regularly maintained by a dedicated shapers team ensuring optimal conditions. Access is typically included with a standard ski pass for the Folgarida-Marilleva sector. Operating hours generally align with the main ski lifts, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the winter season.

This scenic hiking trail leads to the stunning Lago delle Malghette, a pristine alpine lake nestled at 1860m. The route typically starts near Folgarida, often accessible via chairlift (seasonal operation) or by foot from the village, offering varying levels of difficulty. The most popular path is a moderate 2-3 hour hike (one way), covering approximately 400m of elevation gain. The lake is famous for its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks, and there's usually a charming mountain hut (Rifugio Lago delle Malghette) nearby for refreshments. Ideal for families and nature photographers.

The 'Nera di Folgarida' is a challenging black-rated ski run (pista nera) renowned for its steep gradient and technical demands, offering an exhilarating experience for expert skiers. This classic downhill track provides a significant vertical drop and often hosts training for ski racers. Its length is approximately 1.5 km with an average gradient exceeding 30%. Skiers can access it from the upper parts of the Folgarida ski area, often from Monte Spolverino, and it leads directly back towards the main resort base. Always check current snow conditions before attempting.

Explore the pristine, silent winter landscape of Folgarida with expert local guides on snowshoeing tours. These excursions cater to all levels, from easy family-friendly walks through snow-covered forests to more demanding routes exploring higher alpine terrain and panoramic viewpoints. Tours often include a stop at a mountain hut for a traditional snack or lunch. Equipment (snowshoes and poles) can usually be rented directly from the guide or local shops. Typical half-day tour prices range from €30-€50 per person, excluding rentals. Tours usually run from December to April, with various start times.

An exciting treetop adventure park offering a series of aerial pathways, zip lines, and obstacle courses set among the trees. With routes designed for various ages and skill levels, from children to adults, it provides a thrilling outdoor experience. Participants are equipped with safety harnesses and instructed by trained staff. It's a perfect activity for families and groups looking for some adrenaline and fun in nature. Prices vary by route difficulty and age, typically €15-€25 per person. Open daily during summer months (June-September), 10:00-18:00.

While the main visitor center in Malé is excluded, other centers like the one in Carisolo or Cles offer deeper insights into the Adamello Brenta Nature Park. These centers feature interactive exhibits on the park's geology, flora, and fauna, including the iconic brown bear. They also provide information on hiking trails, guided excursions, and educational programs. Entry is often free or included with the Val di Sole Guest Card. Opening hours vary seasonally, typically 9:00-12:00 and 15:00-18:00 during active seasons. Check specific locations for exact details.

Located directly on the slopes near the main Folgarida hub, the 'Pista per Bambini' is a dedicated, safe, and fun area designed specifically for young children learning to ski. It features magic carpets, gentle slopes, and playful obstacles to make learning enjoyable. While not a 'ski school' per se, it's an essential facility for families, often staffed by instructors (though the schools themselves are excluded). Children can spend time here in a protected environment, gaining confidence on skis. Access is usually included with a valid ski pass, and special day passes for children are available. Open during the entire winter ski season, typically from December to April.

Experience the thrill of dog sledding with guided excursions available through specialized centers in the wider Val di Sole area, easily reachable from Folgarida. Participants get a chance to learn basic commands and drive their own sled, pulled by a team of huskies, through snow-covered landscapes. Excursions vary in length, from short introductory rides to longer trails. Prices typically start from 80-120 EUR per person for an introductory session. This unique activity offers an unforgettable connection with nature and animals and is suitable for adults and children (usually from 8 years old). Bookings are highly recommended, especially during peak winter season.

For thrill-seekers in summer, guided canyoning tours are available in the pristine natural gorges of the Val di Sole. Experienced guides lead participants through spectacular canyons, involving abseiling down waterfalls, jumping into natural pools, and sliding down rock formations. Various routes cater to different experience levels, from beginner-friendly half-day trips to full-day adventures. All necessary equipment (wetsuits, helmets, harnesses) is provided. Prices typically range from 60-100 EUR per person, depending on the tour's duration and difficulty. This adrenaline-pumping activity offers a unique perspective of the valley's rugged beauty.

Located in Malé, a short drive from Folgarida, Flying Park is an exciting adventure park nestled among the trees. It offers various aerial rope courses, ziplines, and climbing challenges suitable for different age groups and skill levels, from children to adults. Participants navigate obstacle courses suspended in the treetops, testing their balance and agility under safe conditions with professional supervision. All safety equipment is provided. Prices typically range from 15-25 EUR per person depending on the chosen course and duration. It's a fantastic outdoor activity for families and groups looking for some adrenaline and fun in the summer months.

The Folgarida-Marilleva sector is the gateway to one of Italy's largest interconnected ski areas, offering approximately 62 km of slopes suitable for all levels, from gentle blue runs perfect for beginners and families, to challenging red and black pistes for experts. It boasts modern lift facilities that ensure quick access to the mountain, including direct connections to Madonna di Campiglio and Pinzolo. The area includes several children's snow parks and learning zones, as well as dedicated freestyle areas for snowboarders. A highlight is the 'Biancaneve Snowpark' in Folgarida. Lift passes vary by season and duration, typically ranging from 50-70 EUR for a daily adult pass.

While not directly in Folgarida, the Val di Sole is renowned as the 'Bike Land', home to world-class mountain biking trails and hosts UCI World Cups. From Folgarida, riders can access a vast network of trails for cross-country, enduro, and downhill, including scenic routes through the Val Meledrio. There are also bike parks with various difficulty levels. Bike rentals are available in Folgarida and nearby villages, with daily rates from 25-50 EUR depending on the bike type.

The Noce River, consistently ranked among the top rafting rivers in Europe, offers thrilling adventures for all levels, from family-friendly descents to challenging routes for experienced rafters. Several professional centers in Val di Sole offer guided tours, equipment rental, and lessons. A typical rafting excursion lasts 2-3 hours and costs around 40-60 EUR per person, including gear and guide. Available from late spring through early autumn.

Folgarida is an excellent base for exploring the breathtaking trails of the Brenta Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Popular routes include trails to Malga di Dimaro, Lago delle Malghette, and challenging treks towards Rifugio Solander or through the 'Via delle Bocchette' ferrata system (for experienced climbers). Trails vary in difficulty, from easy family walks (2-3 hours) to demanding full-day excursions (6-8+ hours) with significant elevation gain. Maps and guided tours are available from the local tourist office.