Presena Glacier

Presena is an Alpine glacier in northern Italy that stretches across the border between Trentino and Lombardy. It reaches an elevation near 3000 meters (roughly 10000 feet) and provides snow surfaces that remain skiable beyond the traditional winter season.

During World War I the front line ran through here between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces who built positions at this altitude. After the war the area became part of Italy and only decades later developed into a ski resort.

The glacier takes its name from a nearby summit and today serves mainly skiers who train here even during summer months. In warmer seasons, hikers and photographers visit to observe the ice formations and mountain scenery at close range.

Two cable car systems bring visitors to the upper area in about a quarter hour, where firm paths and marked routes make access easier. Warm clothing is necessary even in summer as wind and cold can be intense at this altitude.

Every year in early summer the surface is covered with enormous white tarps to slow down melting from sun exposure. This covering stretches over an area larger than ten soccer fields and must be removed again in autumn.

GPS coordinates: 46.22274,10.58123

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30