The rules and prohibitions extracted faithfully from the official signposts of the Parco Nazionale della Maiella, of which the Valle dell'Orfento Reserve constitutes a maximum protection area (Zona A), and from the regulations of the Reparto Carabinieri Biodiversità.
Almost all municipal trails have reopened. Only a few sections that are not yet safe remain closed. The Comune di Caramanico Terme announces the adoption of Mayoral Ordinance no. 27 of 27 April 2026, which orders a further partial revocation of the previous ordinances issued after the exceptional weather events of early April.
The Comune di Caramanico Terme and the Pescara Reparto Carabinieri Biodiversità assume no responsibility for any accidents, route errors, or logistical issues due to negligence, imprudence, or lack of skill on the part of the hiker.
Visiting the mountain environment involves objective risks that are neither predictable nor avoidable. By signing the form, the "Group Leader" assumes full responsibility for their own safety and that of the persons accompanied by them, committing to strict compliance with all the rules listed here.
In order to guarantee personal safety and the maximum protection of the priceless biodiversity of the Reserve, each visitor is required to strictly comply with the safety rules and behavior provisions prescribed by the authorities:
Entry is highly discouraged in case of adverse weather conditions (rain, thunderstorms, fog). Many passages along the canyon can become slippery or subject to sudden floods.
Pay close attention because along the canyon you may encounter exposed, steep, or wet sections, or sections subject to potential rockfall. Always maintain maximum caution.
In order to safeguard extremely fragile aquatic ecosystems (in particular the habitat of the European otter and the white-throated dipper), it is absolutely forbidden to bathe, swim, or walk in the bed and banks of the Orfento river. In compliance with the Park regulations, it is also forbidden to travel along the river course, upstream and downstream of the arrival point of the trails.
WITH A DOG YOU CAN ACCESS ONLY ON THE SENTIERO DELLE SCALELLE AND ON the SENTIERO DE "L'ALTRA VALLE". On all other itineraries, dog entry is strictly prohibited.
SOME AREAS ARE NOT COVERED BY MOBILE SIGNAL. In case of doubt, we recommend asking the qualified operator at the Reserve Visitor Center in advance.
Hiking in protected areas is a wonderful and safe activity, but zero risk in nature does not exist. Every territory presents dangers: it is up to us not to transform them into real risks, relying on official guides or, if we go alone, focusing on preparation and responsible behavior.
Source: Federparchi — «Vivere i Parchi in Sicurezza»
Riserva Naturale Valle dell'Orfento
Attivo 24 ore su 24 per qualsiasi tipo di emergenza e soccorso sanitario/tecnico.
Ufficio informazioni del Centro Visita "Paolo Barrasso", via del Vivaio snc.
do not panic, do not approach, and leave it free to move. If it is close to houses, immediately report the presence of the animal to the Park Emergency Toll-Free Number 800.337.4999, or to 1515 or 112.
It is recommended to download the paper PDF of the regulations in advance to consult it offline during the wild trip.