The park is the only one in South Tyrol that transitions from the sub-Mediterranean vegetation zone into the high-alpine mountain climate.
It hosts the largest and most well-preserved mountain forest area in the entire province.
The Bletterbach Gorge, located within the park boundary, allows visitors to observe over 200 million years of geological history in its layered sediment walls.
The park is officially recognized for having the highest biodiversity of any nature park in South Tyrol.
The 'Trudner Horn' summit, from which the park takes its name, provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the Dolomites and the Etsch Valley.
The area is home to the rare and protected Lady's Slipper orchid, which blooms in specific shaded forest pockets during late spring.
Parco Naturale Monte Corno (Trudner Horn) is the southernmost nature park in South Tyrol, characterized by its unusually warm microclimate and high biodiversity. Situated at the intersection of Alpine and Mediterranean floral zones, the area features a landscape of broad-leaf forests, limestone rock faces, and extensive alpine meadows. The park is home to a significant population of rare bird species, including the grey-headed woodpecker and the hazel grouse. Geological features include the Bletterbach Gorge, a canyon recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site that exposes layers of Permian rock. Unlike many higher-altitude Dolomite parks, the terrain here is largely composed of porphyry and limestone, offering more accessible, lower-altitude hiking trails. The park encompasses the village of Trodena, serving as a primary base for visitors looking to explore the marked trail network. Visitors can encounter traditional mountain farm structures, or 'Masos,' scattered across the meadows. It serves as a protected refuge for chamois, deer, and diverse alpine butterfly species.
The summit of Trudner Horn at sunrise for views across the southern Dolomites.
Bring high-quality binoculars as the park is one of the premier birdwatching locations in the region.
Start your hike early to avoid the peak afternoon temperatures, which can be significantly warmer here than in other Alpine parks due to the low elevation and southern exposure.
Visit the Truden visitor center first to receive updated maps, as the extensive trail network covers diverse elevations and difficulty levels.
Do not attempt to hike the Bletterbach Gorge during or immediately after heavy rainfall due to the risk of rockfalls and slippery canyon paths.
The visitor center usually closes during the shoulder seasons in November and April; trails are generally accessible year-round, though high-altitude paths may be snow-covered in winter.
Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging sensitive flora; dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect local wildlife.
