Hiking along the Bormio Pedemontana - Researcher day: the return of the Wolf and trophic cascades
Easy circular walk above the town of Bormio. The hike starts in Piazza Cavour (also known as Piazza del Kuerc: 1,215 m) to reach the Alpine Botanical Garden "Rezia." From here, we reach the Pedemontana, a dirt road closed to traffic that leads to a sunny picnic area (1,525 m).
From there, the road climbs further to an altitude of 1,565 m before descending and returning to Bormio through the villages of Pramezzano and Gesa Rota, overlooking the center of Bormio, just a few minutes' walk away.
The trail develops through beautiful larch forests which, according to one interpretation, gave the name to the mountain above, La Reit. This name would actually come from “Laricetum.” Interspersed with larch are mountain pine, Scots pine, and some Norway spruce.
Along the route, views occasionally open up onto the plain of Bormio and the Valfurva. In the forest, it's possible to spot, or at least hear, typical forest species. Various species of woodpeckers, songbirds, hazel dormice, and squirrels are common in the area.
Despite the relatively low altitude and proximity to the town center, this area is frequented by deer and, although rarer, roe deer. A suitable environment and natural prey have allowed for the elusive return of the wolf. During the hike, participants will meet researchers monitoring its presence in the Park and its interactions with other environmental components, providing a unique opportunity to enter the life of a researcher.
Costs
- Paid excursion (adults: 10 € - youths 6/14 years: 6 € - children 0/5 years: free - family package (1 or 2 parents + under 14): 20 €)
- Registration by 6:00 PM the day before the trip at:
National Park Office of Stelvio (Tel. +39 0342 901654 - info.torrealberti@stelviopark.it)
Bormio Tourism (Tel. +39 0342 903300 - info@bormio.eu)
Online on bormio.eu
Meeting at 9.30 am at Piazza Cavour/Kuerc
Details
- Difficulty level: easy - hiking trail
- Duration: approximately 3 hours of walking + breaks
- Length: 6.3 km of development, 370 m of positive elevation gain
- Suitable for everyone
- Hikes are conducted with a minimum of 5 participants. If the minimum number is not reached, the event will be canceled and the fees paid will be refunded
- The meeting point is reachable by personal vehicle. Some parking areas and access roads are paid
- Pack lunch
- Recommended equipment: hiking boots, appropriate clothing including at least one waterproof garment. It's advisable to bring a hat and a pair of long pants
- Dogs are not allowed on the hikes
