Upper Vallesinella waterfalls

Upper Vallesinella Waterfalls (Cascate Alte di Vallesinella) in Tre Ville form the highest section of the celebrated Vallesinella waterfall system on the Sarca di Vallesinella river — among the most photographed waterfalls in Trentino, set within the beech forests of the Adamello-Brenta Nature Park at the foot of the Brenta Dolomites.

Three cascades, one river

The Sarca di Vallesinella descends in three distinct drops: the Cascate Alte (upper), Cascata di Mezzo (middle, the largest), and Cascata di Sotto (lower). The upper waterfalls — also known as Cascate di Sopra — lie above Rifugio Vallesinella at roughly 1,523 metres above sea level. Here the river breaks over a rocky ledge into a striking curtain of water framed by deciduous forest. The full system of three cascades is widely regarded as one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the region.

Getting to the upper waterfalls

The starting point is the Vallesinella car park, from which marked trails branch off to all three cascades. From the car park and the adjacent Rifugio Vallesinella, the Cascate Alte can be reached in about 20 minutes on foot. The car park is connected to Madonna di Campiglio by the Adamello-Brenta Nature Park shuttle bus — a convenient option for visitors staying in this popular alpine resort. A loop taking in both the upper and lower waterfalls takes around 4 hours in total and is suitable for families with children.

Why visit the upper cascades specifically?

The Cascate Alte are the furthest from the car park and tend to draw fewer visitors than the more easily accessible Cascata di Mezzo. The surroundings are wilder: dense beech forest typical of a protected nature reserve, and from the level of the upper falls the ridgeline of the Brenta Dolomites becomes visible above the treetops. The entire Vallesinella valley sits within the Adamello-Brenta Nature Park — one of the largest nature parks in the Alps.

Frequently asked questions

Is the trail to the Cascate Alte difficult? The path from Vallesinella car park to the upper waterfalls takes about 20 minutes one way. The full loop covering all three cascades takes around 4 hours. The trail is well-marked and manageable for families with children.

How do I get to the Vallesinella car park? The Adamello-Brenta Nature Park operates a shuttle bus service between the car park and Madonna di Campiglio — the recommended option during summer when vehicle access may be restricted.

Do the waterfalls flow year-round? The Sarca di Vallesinella flows throughout the year, but water volume and visual impact are greatest in spring and early summer when snowmelt from the Brenta massif feeds the river.

Is there an entrance fee? The area lies within the Adamello-Brenta Nature Park. The walk to the waterfalls is free of charge.