Waterfall Trail – Sant’Annapelago

There is a sound that follows those who choose to venture into the woods of Sant’Annapelago: the sound of flowing water, growing louder with every step until it becomes the roar of waterfalls. A trail scented with resin and freedom, where nature reveals itself in all its strength and delicacy. A little corner of the Modenese Apennines, able to surprise you and invite you to slow down.

VIAGGI | TRAVELS

Rebecca P. & Raffaele F.

10/12/20254 min read

In the heart of the Modenese Apennines, just above Pievepelago, lies Sant’Annapelago: a small mountain village surrounded by beech and fir woods. This is where the Waterfall Trail begins, a moderately challenging circular route that takes you past a series of natural waterfalls set among rocky walls and crystal-clear streams.

It is an ideal route for those who love hiking, nature and the unspoilt landscapes of the Emilian Apennines.

The Waterfall Trail is a well-signposted route of around 12 km, winding through woodland paths, small bridges and sections over rocks and roots.

The hike starts from the car park at the “La Torre” sports area, where there is also a bar — useful as both a starting and finishing point. From here, take Via Borracce and then Via Casa delle Rose, following the SDC trail markers.

The first section of the route climbs gradually through beech and fir woodland. It is a shaded, cool stretch, making it pleasant even on summer days. After the first climb, the trail becomes flatter, offering a steady and relaxing walk for about 4 km.

Along the way, you will come across several natural waterfalls, each with its own shape and character.

Starting and finishing point: Sant’Annapelago, a hamlet of Pievepelago — MO
Altitude: 1,050–1,170 m above sea level
Route type: Circular trail
Total length: approx. 12 km
Elevation gain: +530 m
Average walking time: 4–5 hours, including stops
Trail markers: SDC — Sentiero delle Cascate / Waterfall Trail
Difficulty: E — Hiking route
Recommended period: April to October
Starting point: “La Torre” sports area in Sant’Annapelago, where parking is available

Rioo Waterfall

This is the first waterfall you encounter along the trail. The drop is not particularly high, but the setting is enchanting: a small amphitheatre of moss-covered rocks and clear water flowing gently down.

Nearby, you will also find the Fonte di Rioo spring, where you can refill your water bottle with drinking water.

Bandita Waterfall

After continuing for around 40 minutes, you reach this second waterfall, which is wider and more scenic. The sound of the water accompanies you from a distance, and the path leading to it is one of the most charming sections of the route, thanks to the dense vegetation and wooden bridges crossing small streams.

Sassorso Waterfall

This waterfall is more secluded and peaceful, and is often less visited. It is a good place to stop, rest and enjoy the silence of the woods.

Terzino Waterfall

Here the route begins to become more demanding, with steeper climbs and descents. The ground can be slippery, especially after rain, so hiking shoes with good grip are recommended.

Cascadora Waterfall

This is the most famous and spectacular waterfall on the trail. It is a double drop of water flowing down a rocky wall, forming a clear pool at the foot of the waterfall.

The descent to reach it is steep and can be slippery, so care is needed. Those who prefer not to tackle the final section can stop at the viewpoint, from where the waterfall can be admired in all its beauty.

The trail crosses one of the greenest and most luxuriant areas of the Modenese Apennines. The beech and fir woods provide shade and coolness for much of the year, while the clearings open onto panoramic views over the Pelago valley.

During the walk, it is easy to come across small streams, mosses, ferns and, sometimes, wildlife such as squirrels, roe deer and mountain birds.

The abundance of water makes the landscape especially atmospheric in spring and after rainy periods, when the waterfalls are at their fullest.

Useful tips for the hike

Equipment: hiking boots, telescopic poles — recommended — a light backpack with at least 1 litre of water, a waterproof jacket and energy snacks.
Ground conditions: in spring and after rain, the trail can be muddy; avoid smooth-soled shoes.
Safety: some sections leading down to the lower waterfalls, especially Cascadora, are steep; proceed with caution.
Suitable for: hikers with a little experience or a good level of fitness; not recommended for small children or people with reduced mobility.
Facilities: bars and restaurants are available in Sant’Annapelago; there are no refreshment points along the trail.

The best time to walk the Waterfall Trail is from April to October. In spring, the water flows abundantly and the vegetation is lush; in summer, the shade of the woods keeps temperatures pleasant; in autumn, the foliage brings spectacular colours.

In winter, the trail is not recommended due to the risk of ice and slippery conditions.

Sant’Annapelago is around 75 km from Modena, about 1 hour and 40 minutes by car, 55 km from Abetone, around 1 hour, and 15 km from Pievepelago.

It can be reached by taking the SS12 Abetone and Brennero road, following signs for Pievepelago and then for Sant’Annapelago.

The recommended starting point is the “La Torre” Sports Area, where parking and the bar of the same name are available.

The Waterfall Trail of Sant’Annapelago is one of the most fascinating and accessible hikes in the Modenese Apennines.

It is a route that brings together nature, water and woodland in perfect balance, offering an authentic experience for those who want to step away from the noise and discover a still little-trodden mountain landscape.

Ideal for a day of nature and movement, it offers views, sounds and scents that stay with you. A route that shows how, sometimes, you do not need great altitudes to experience the mountains in all their beauty.