Trekking in the Celano Gorge

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Route type: Trekking for hikers (Difficulty E – Medium; Easy up to the waterfall)
Hiking time: approx. 3h 30' round trip to the waterfall; 6h to continue up to Ovindoli and return
Starting point: reserve parking area.
A map is recommended if you plan to continue all the way to Ovindoli.
Pets allowed.
A summer visit is recommended (winter is discouraged due to high water levels). The stream running through the gorge makes the route difficult and potentially dangerous in winter.
Starting altitude approx. 900 m, arrival altitude approx. 1,350 m, total distance about 11 km.
The route is indicative: once you reach the waterfall, the path to Ovindoli begins just before it. Of course, a quick stop at the waterfall is a must.
The parking area is convenient, and when hiking through the gorge a helmet is strongly recommended (e.g., a construction-style helmet) to protect yourself from possible falling rocks in the narrowest sections.
Be cautious on the section leading to Ovindoli: although the elevation gain is moderate, the distance from Celano to Ovindoli is quite long.

Route Details: Celano Gorge

A full immersion into the deepest canyon of the Central Apennines

📖 The Canyon

Features Walls up to 200 m A wild and dramatic environment where the gorge narrows to just a few metres, following the stony bed of the Rio La Foce.

Trail Surface Rocks and Boulders This is not a groomed path: you walk over stones, slabs and small natural steps between large blocks.

🚗 Start and Finish

Starting Point Celano Parking Area (AQ) Altitude 900 m. Accessible by paved road right up to the trailhead.

Classic Destination Fonte degli Innamorati Altitude 1,030–1,050 m. A scenic waterfall with cascades and natural pools.

📊 Difficulty (Round Trip)

Rating E – Hiking No technical passages, but good balance and confident footing are required.

Distance & Time 11 km | approx. 3h 30' Total elevation gain of about 450 m up to the waterfall.

🎒 Equipment

Essential Hiking Boots & Helmet Helmet recommended due to possible rockfall. Sturdy soles with good grip are a must.

Recommended Water & GPS Bring plenty of water. GPS is necessary if continuing towards Ovindoli (+6h).

⚠️ Critical Points

Weather & Water Slippery Conditions After rain or in winter, the stream level may rise, making the route dangerous.

Seasonality Summer & Early Autumn The best period to avoid excessive water flow and enjoy cooler temperatures.

🆘 Local Emergency

Mountain Rescue 📞 Emergency Number 112 Contact the Abruzzo Mountain Rescue (CNSAS) in case of injury or if you get lost.

More Information on the Celano Gorge

Additional tips for your hike through Abruzzo’s canyon

📍 Essential Info

Mandatory Booking 🔗 Book Your Entry Access is regulated. Make sure to download your confirmation before arriving (signal is weak on site).

Ideal Season May — October The trail is not recommended in winter due to ice and sudden water surges.

🏞️ Not to Miss

Scenic Spot Fonte degli Innamorati A beautiful natural waterfall marking the turnaround point of the classic route.

Local Culture Piccolomini Castle After the hike, visit the castle in Celano’s historic centre.

Plan Your Visit to Celano

Logistics, useful numbers and hospitality in the village

🚗 How to Get There

By Car (A25) Aielli–Celano Exit Follow signs to Celano town centre, then to “Gole di Celano / Località Le Foci”.

By Train / Bus Celano–Ovindoli Station Regional connections from Rome or Pescara. Local TUA buses link the station to the centre.

🏛️ Useful Numbers – Celano

Municipality of Celano 📞 0863 79541 Tourist office and administrative information.

Local Police 📞 0863 792434 Traffic reports and urban emergency assistance.

🍴 Where to Eat

Local Specialities Village Restaurants Try the famous Abruzzese “arrosticini” or handmade “pasta alla chitarra” in the eateries near Piccolomini Castle.

Quick Snack Le Foci Picnic Areas Perfect for a packed lunch before or after the hike, surrounded by greenery.