Trekking to the 100 Waterfalls or Cento Fonti, in the Monti della Laga

Valle delle Cento Cascate (Cento Fonti) – Route Description

The Valle delle Cento Cascate, also known as Cento Fonti, in the Monti della Laga, is one of the most spectacular itineraries in the Apennines. Its name comes from the countless small waterfalls fed by the Fosso dell’Acero, which flows through ancient beech forests and wide rock slabs, creating a fresh, wild, and water‑rich environment.

Starting Point

Starting location: Cesacastina (hamlet of Crognaleto, TE)
Access: from the village square, follow Via Trieste northwards, following signs for “Cento Fonti” or “Cento Cascate”. You cross clearings and meadows in the area known as Le Piane before entering the valley of the Fosso dell’Acero.

Environment and Route Development

The trail begins with a gentle progression through wide clearings and beech woods, in a cool and shaded environment. In spring, the area is particularly rich in blooms, with many species of flowers and wild orchids typical of the Monti della Laga.

Gradually leaving the forest, you enter the heart of the Valle delle Cento Cascate. Here the Fosso dell’Acero flows over large sandstone slabs, forming an almost continuous sequence of drops, slides, and small waterfalls of various sizes, making the route extremely scenic and evocative.

Ascent Along the Fosso dell’Acero

The trail follows the stream, alternating between grassy sections, rocky stretches, and small fords. In several points the path gets very close to the water, allowing you to admire the waterfalls up close and stop in small basins and grassy terraces ideal for a break.

As you climb the valley, the environment becomes more open and wild: the waterfalls follow one another continuously, some small and intimate, others taller and more spectacular, creating a constant alternation of water sound, rock, and greenery.

Upper Valley and Views

In the upper part of the valley, the landscape opens toward the Cime della Laghetta and Monte Gorzano, the highest peak of the Monti della Laga. On clear days, the view extends toward the Gran Sasso massif and, on the horizon, all the way to the Adriatic Sea.

Characteristics and Difficulty

The route is generally classified as E, but can reach EE depending on water flow, mud, and slippery sections near the stream. A sure footing and some experience on mixed terrain (grass, rock, wet areas) are required.

Total length varies depending on where you choose to stop the ascent: on average 7–10 km round trip, with 700–900 m elevation gain and an indicative total time of 4–5 hours, including stops to admire the waterfalls.

Critical Points and Caution

• Slippery sections: rocks and slabs near the water can be very slippery.
• Fords: in spring and after heavy rain, small fords may be present.
• Navigation: in some stretches the trail may not be obvious; a good GPS track is useful.
• Water flow: in late summer the waterfalls may lose much of their spectacle.

Recommended Season and Equipment

The best period to fully enjoy the Valle delle Cento Cascate is roughly from May to July, when water flow is abundant and the environment is lush. In late summer the itinerary remains pleasant, but with reduced water volume.

• Footwear: trekking boots with good grip.
• Trekking poles: useful for balance and stability on wet sections.
• Clothing: layered, with a light waterproof jacket.
• Water and food: despite the stream, it is advisable to bring your own water.
• Navigation: map and GPS track recommended, especially with fog or cloud cover.