Cascata della Volpara: how to get there and trails

Where the Cascata della Volpara is located

The waterfall is at the head of the valley that climbs from Umito, at the foot of the steep northeastern face of the Macera della Morte. The base of the first drop is at over 1,200 m. The stream that feeds it changes name along its course: in the upper part it is the Rio Volpara, then it becomes the Fosso della Montagna and, lower down, the Rio Garrafo, which forms the Gole del Garrafo gorge before joining the Tronto near Acquasanta.

How to get to the Cascata della Volpara

From Acquasanta Terme, on the Salaria road (SS4), take the turnoff for Umito. From there a provincial road climbs to the village. The car is left in Umito, in one of the open areas near the church or the old wash house. Alternatively, continue along a stretch of dirt road to a parking area.

Trails and hikes to the Cascata della Volpara

The route starts from Umito along a dirt road that runs along the valley. After about 40 minutes comes the fork for the Cascata della Prata, while for the Volpara the route continues on the main dirt road. Where the road ends, a path leads to the "Fornetto", a cave with an oven once used by shepherds and brigands. A little farther on are the "vasche" (pools), slabs of smooth sandstone carved by the stream. From here, in about 20 minutes, the waterfalls come into view. The last stretch requires care. The ground is slippery and littered with fallen branches, fords are sometimes needed, and the path near the waterfall becomes faint. The final access stretch may have changed in recent years, so it is best to check trail conditions before setting out.

The outward leg takes about two and a half hours. The full round trip is long, with elevation gain and times that vary depending on the route taken.

When to visit the Cascata della Volpara

In summer the route is almost entirely in the shade and the pools are a typical destination for those walking in the hot months. The flow, however, is more abundant in autumn and winter, and in high summer it can be reduced. The ground can stay damp in any season, so suitable hiking boots are needed.

What to see near the Cascata della Volpara

Along the same route is the Cascata della Prata, a drop of about 50 m whose flow changes with the seasons. It is reached with a short detour from the main trail. The area also has the medieval village of Castel Trosino.