The park contains the highest concentration of glaciers in the Zillertal Alps.
The name 'Vedrette' refers to the specific small glaciers that characterize the upper slopes of this mountain group.
The park forms a transboundary protected area by bordering the Austrian Rieserferner-Ahrn Nature Park, creating a continuous ecological corridor.
The Antholzer See, located within the park, is one of the highest alpine lakes in the region and is known for its intense turquoise color due to rock flour from glacial erosion.
The park's geology features a complex contact zone between the Austroalpine basement and the Tauern Window rocks, showcasing unique mineralogical formations.
The Riva waterfalls (Reinbachfälle) near the park entrance drop over three main stages, with the third and highest drop measuring approximately 42 meters.
Parco Naturale Vedrette di Ries-Aurina is a 31,500-hectare protected area in the South Tyrol region of Italy, characterized by high-altitude glacial landscapes and the Vedrette di Ries mountain range. The park encompasses a significant portion of the Rieserferner Group, featuring glaciers, alpine lakes like the Antholzer See, and a network of marked hiking trails. The terrain ranges from 850 meters to the 3,436-meter peak of Collalto, the highest summit in the park. Water features are central to the landscape, including the Riva waterfalls near Campo Tures, which form a series of tiered cascades. The area serves as a sanctuary for alpine fauna, including ibex, chamois, and golden eagles. Geological diversity is represented by granite and tonalite rock formations, reflecting the park's position at the edge of the Tauern Window. It is managed to balance wilderness preservation with sustainable alpine tourism, featuring several mountain huts (Rifugi) that act as stopovers for trekkers. The visitors' center in Campo Tures provides information on the park's glaciological history and ecosystem.
The wooden bridge overlooking the middle cascade of the Riva waterfalls.
Bring a pair of sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, as the terrain becomes rocky and steep quickly.
Carry trekking poles to assist with the descent from higher elevations, which can be taxing on the knees.
Check local weather forecasts before departure, as high-altitude conditions can shift rapidly even in mid-summer.
Attempting high-altitude trails without proper topographic maps or after heavy rain, as paths can become slippery and difficult to navigate.
Higher elevation trails and mountain huts are typically accessible only from late June through late September due to snow conditions.
Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging sensitive alpine flora and refrain from disturbing local wildlife.
