Cascata del lupo

Cascata del Lupo is the best known waterfall on the Altopiano di Piné, tucked into the municipality of Bedollo in Trentino. Here the Regnana stream plunges in a single dramatic leap of around 36 metres into a gorge cut from dark porphyry. The vertical walls, cloaked in moss and colourful lichens, give the spot a wild, almost fairy tale feel, and you hear the roar of the falling water well before you reach it.

What will you see?

The star of the visit is the waterfall itself: a single 36 metre jet of water forcing its way through a narrow rock throat. The dark stone, damp microclimate and lush greenery make the canyon look completely different from the calm plateau landscape around it. It is one of the most important water drops on the whole Altopiano di Piné and a rewarding goal for a short but exciting outing.

How do you get there?

The most popular approach starts from the small village of Piazze di Bedollo, about half an hour by car from Trento. You leave the car in the large parking area just behind the church and pick up the trail near the recycling point. This is a route for little adventurers: a descent over rocky steps and stairs shaped by tree roots. The stretch is steep but short, so you reach the waterfall in roughly 20 to 30 minutes.

A gentler alternative comes in from Segonzano and its famous earth pyramids. From the kiosk near the Piramidi a short paved road leads to a small car park, from where the waterfall is only about fifteen minutes away. If you prefer a longer walk, a mostly level path, C37 (SAT 406), links the Segonzano pyramids to the falls in around two hours.

When should you visit and what to keep in mind?

The best season runs through the warmer months from late spring to autumn, when the paths are dry and the greenery of the gorge is at its richest. The rocks near the waterfall are often wet and slippery, so sturdy trekking shoes with good grip are essential. In winter, warning signs clearly advise against descending in snow or ice, and experienced hikers carry crampons and poles. Take the descent slowly and carefully rather than rushing.

The legend of the Wolf Waterfall

The name is tied to an old legend. It tells of a wolf called "Fiuto Leggero" who, devastated by the loss of his companion, is said to have thrown himself from the cliff of the waterfall. That is where the name Cascata del Lupo, the Wolf Waterfall, comes from, adding a touch of mystery to this wild corner of Trentino.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is the waterfall? The water drops in a single leap of about 36 metres, making it the highest and best known waterfall on the Altopiano di Piné.

How long is the walk? From Piazze di Bedollo the descent takes about 20 to 30 minutes, from the Segonzano car park around 15 minutes, and the longer trail from the Segonzano pyramids roughly two hours.

Is the route suitable for children? The short descent from Piazze can be steep and slippery, but with good footwear and care it works well as an adventurous family trip. The gentler approach from Segonzano is more comfortable for young children.

Can you visit in winter? It is better avoided. In snow and ice the path becomes dangerous, and signs advise against going down without proper equipment such as crampons and poles.