The gorge was carved by the erosive action of the Tenna River over geological timescales.
Friar Pietro Lavini dedicated nearly 40 years to rebuilding the Hermitage of San Leonardo, which had been abandoned since the mid-20th century.
The name 'Infernaccio' translates to 'Big Hell,' referencing the narrow, dark, and imposing nature of the gorge during its initial discovery.
The Pisciarelle waterfall is created by groundwater filtering through porous rock layers before spilling out onto the trail.
The canyon walls reach heights of several hundred meters in the narrowest sections.
Gola dell'Infernaccio is a narrow limestone gorge carved by the Tenna River within the Sibillini Mountains National Park. The trail leads visitors through a dense beech forest before entering a dramatic, high-walled canyon. A key feature is the Hermitage of San Leonardo, a stone structure historically rebuilt by a local friar over several decades. The path includes several river crossings and passes through the 'Pisciarelle' waterfall area, where water emerges from the canyon walls. The terrain is characterized by steep rock faces and the narrowest point of the gorge known as the Stretto di Inferno. The geological formation results from the deep incision of the Tenna river into the limestone layers. The trail currently requires vigilance due to localized geological instability common in the Sibillini range. It serves as a primary access point for deeper trekking routes within the park.
The narrowest section of the canyon near the riverbed, looking upward toward the towering limestone walls.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots due to frequent river crossings and potentially muddy, slippery trail sections.
Bring a trekking pole to assist with stability on uneven, rocky sections of the path.
Check local seismic or trail authority updates before arrival, as rockfall hazards can cause temporary closures.
Do not attempt to hike the trail during or immediately after heavy rainfall due to the risk of sudden rockfalls.
The trail is subject to closures based on geological assessments; verify status with the Sibillini National Park authorities before planning a visit.
Maintain silence to observe local wildlife; pack out all trash to preserve the protected park environment.
