Parco naturale Paneveggio - Pale di San Martino, Nature reserve in Trentino, Italy
Parco naturale Paneveggio - Pale di San Martino is a protected area in the Dolomites covering three valleys with dense spruce forests, rocky mountain peaks, and open alpine meadows. The landscape transitions gradually from wooded slopes to bare stone peaks as elevation increases.
The area became a protected region in 1967 to safeguard the eastern Dolomites' natural environment. This designation marked a significant moment in conservation efforts across Trentino.
The spruce forests here have supplied wood for violin makers for hundreds of years, and this craft tradition remains deeply connected to local life. Visitors can see how this woodland relationship shaped communities in the surrounding valleys.
The park can be entered from several points, with information centers offering maps and trail advice for visitors of different experience levels. Weather and conditions change rapidly at higher elevations, so proper gear and planning ahead are wise.
The terrain rises from around 1100 meters to over 3200 meters, creating distinct ecological zones where plants and animals change dramatically within a short distance. A single hike can take you from thick forests to rocky barrens while passing through completely different living systems.
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