As winter arrives and the first snowfall blankets the mountains, the landscape transforms into a paradise for nature enthusiasts and outdoor sports lovers. As well as skiing and snowboarding, tireless adventurers can also enjoy the many beautiful trails near Verona that are perfect for snowshoeing – an ideal way to immerse yourself in the tranquillity of snowy scenery.

Snowshoes, known in the past as snow rackets, were originally developed as practical tools by people living in mountainous, snowy regions to help them get about on fresh snow without sinking. The history of snowshoes spans thousands of years. They were used by Siberian hunters and Native Americans to travel through forests.

Modern snowshoes are typically made from plastic and titanium and can be attached to mountain boots. They allow you to walk on fresh or compact snow without sinking. Not to be confused with crampons, which are designed to provide traction on icy terrain or steep surfaces.

Amazing snow adventures near Verona                                                                                 

Here’s our pick of the best snowshoe excursions suited to different levels of experience.

1. Just an hour from Verona: Monte Baldo, a panoramic balcony overlooking Lake Garda Monte Baldo is a favourite destination for hikers throughout the year, and winter is no exception. Here, you can don your snowshoes for hikes offering breathtaking views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains.

Recommended route:

Itinerary from Prada to the Fiori del Baldo refuge

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Duration: About 3 hours (round trip)
• Features: The route winds through woods and snow-covered slopes, offering lovely views of the lake and the Veronese plain

2. Lessinia: the charm of unspoiled nature

The Lessinia Regional Natural Park is about 50 km from Verona and offers numerous snowshoeing trails with moderate climbs and descents against the backdrop of extraordinary views.

Recommended route:

Itinerary from San Giorgio to the Podestaria refuge

• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: About 2 hours (round trip)
• Features: This family-friendly route crosses meadows and woods, providing opportunities to spot wild animals

Itinerary from Malga San Giorgio to Monte Tomba

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Duration: About 4 hours (round trip)
• Features: This slightly more challenging route rewards hikers with spectacular views of the Val d’Adige and the Brenta Dolomites

3. Monte Carega: high-altitude thrills

For more experienced hikers, Monte Carega offers a rewarding challenge and is less than two hours from Verona. This mountain, on the border between Veneto and Trentino, boasts breathtaking Alpine landscapes.

Recommended route:

Itinerary from Giazza to the Scalorbi refuge

• Difficulty: High
• Duration: About 5 hours (round trip)
• Features: A challenging route involving significant climbs and descents. Snowshoers are rewarded with stunning views of the snow-capped peaks

How to Prepare for a Snowshoeing Excursion

Before embarking on a snowshoeing excursion, it’s important to take some precautions, which apply to all hikers:

Preparation: Check the weather forecast and assess the snow conditions before you set off. Use a map or a dedicated outdoor navigation app to help orient yourself.

Equipment: Wear layered, waterproof clothing to stay warm and dry. It’s also a good idea to bring trekking poles for balance, and enough water to stay hydrated.

Safety: If you plan to tackle a challenging route, consider carrying an emergency kit that includes an avalanche transceiver (ARTVA), a shovel and a probe for maximum safety.

Respect for the Environment: Stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing local wildlife to help look after the area.

A snowshoeing excursion around Verona is a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the winter mountains. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snowshoer, you’ll find the right route for your skill level. So, what are you waiting for? Strap on your snowshoes and embark on an adventure to explore the enchanting Veronese mountains!