Introduction: a route that runs inside the Zompo lo Schioppo Nature Reserve, accessible to adults, children and elderly people who still have good mobility. No route-finding difficulties. A pleasant route with the chance of a picnic.
The uncertainty remains whether to talk more about the waterfall or more about the Zompo lo Schioppo Nature Reserve (see website) itself. Yet the one does not live without the other. There would be no reserve without the marvellous waterfall of Zompo lo Schioppo. There would be no nature so lush if this side of the Monti Ernici were not so soaked in water.
For an account of the visit, read also the trip report of the hike to the Cascata Zompo lo Schioppo.
Route description
The Zompo lo Schioppo waterfall, with its 80-metre drop, is the second highest in the central Apennines, beaten only by the larger and more majestic Cascata delle Marmore. It lies on the eastern side of the Monti Ernici, right below the wooded slopes of Monte Pozzotello and Monte Crepacuore. Not far away, in the landscape of the Monti Simbruini, Monte Viglio stands out in all its majesty.
The reserve in which the waterfall lies (Zompo lo Schioppo Nature Reserve) is within the municipality of Morino in the province of L'Aquila; tucked into the deep Valle Roveto, it is easily reached from both Sora and Avezzano.
Near the waterfall the reserve has been equipped with a car park and two large picnic areas where you can spend a happy day immersed in nature.
The peculiarity of this waterfall is that it is seasonal, which is why a visit is usually recommended in spring, when the snow at high altitude melts and the water tables are still full.
In fact, during the summer the waterfall loses its vigour, and in particular, when water is scarce, it can happen that only the smaller secondary cascades (“le monache”, the nuns), lower down, remain active.
What strikes you most about this natural area is the constant presence of water over the whole side. The loop route visiting the Reserve lets you come across numerous streams and springs. The hike is beautiful and evocative in spring, which offers, besides abundant water, a kaleidoscopic variety of colours.
A place particularly suited to hikes with children, a round of just 2 kilometres, not very demanding and enormously satisfying.
Variants and alternatives
No variant possible on a fixed route.
Notes on effort and difficulty
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cascata di Zompo lo Schioppo suitable for children?
Yes. The route is graded T (Turistico: easy walk on good paths) and is suitable for children in the 5-7 age range, as well as for adults and elderly people with good mobility. There are no route-finding difficulties and the signage is visible and well kept.
How long is the path to the Cascata di Zompo lo Schioppo?
It is a loop of about 2 km with 130 metres of height gain, inside the nature reserve in the municipality of Morino (AQ). The waterfall, with its 80-metre drop, is the second highest in the central Apennines after the Marmore.
