Ecotrekking of Val d'Arda
Trekking and running on the trails of the Piacenza Apennines, on Ferragosto
About Ecotrekking Val d'Arda
A Ferragosto on the trails of the Piacenza Apennines
The Ecotrekking of Val d'Arda is the event that, every August 15th, transforms the small village of Casali di Morfasso, a hamlet of the Municipality of Morfasso, in the province of Piacenza (Emilia-Romagna), into the starting and finishing point of a day entirely dedicated to trail running and mountain hiking. Also known as the Ecomaratona della Val d'Arda, it is organized by A.S.D. Lupi d'Appennino together with the Pro Loco associations of Casali, Morfasso, and Monastero, the Alpini corps, and local volunteer associations.
The "Sentiero dei Dragoni" (Dragon Trail)
The common thread of the event is the scenic "Sentiero dei Dragoni", which gives the event its name and accompanies participants through the woods and ridges of the upper Val d'Arda. The routes cross the panoramas of Mount Lama and Mount Menegosa, two of the most characteristic peaks of the Piacenza Apennines, offering views of Rocca dei Casali, Sperongia, and the passes connecting this corner of the Emilia mountain region.
Routes for everyone
The day offers multiple options, designed for both athletes and those who simply love walking in nature:
- a long route of about 42 km, reserved for the most trained trail runners;
- a 25 km route with approximately 1200 meters of positive elevation gain, more accessible but still challenging;
- a non-competitive walk in Fiasp style, open to families and walkers, which attracts hundreds of participants each year.
Sport, nature, and tradition
The Ecotrekking of Val d'Arda is not just a race: it's a village festival that celebrates the mountains and Ferragosto conviviality. Numerous refreshment points are set up along the routes, while at the finish line in Casali di Morfasso, a super final refreshment and a Ferragosto lunch with food stalls managed by the Pro Loco associations await. It's the ideal opportunity to discover an authentic and little-known side of the Emilia Apennines, far from the most crowded destinations, on one of the most cherished days of the Italian summer.
Ecotrekking Val d'Arda — edition 2026
The 19th edition of the Ecotrekking of Val d'Arda is confirmed for Saturday, August 15, 2026, with start and finish in Casali di Morfasso (PC). The announced theme is "On the ancient Dragon Trail", along the ridges and woods of the upper Val d'Arda between Mount Lama and Mount Menegosa.
The organization, managed by A.S.D. Lupi d'Appennino, has confirmed the 25 km route with approximately 1200 meters of positive elevation gain. As is tradition, a longer route for trail runners and the non-competitive walk open to everyone are also expected.
The complete program, including meeting and start times, registration fees, and details on refreshment points, will be announced by the organization in the weeks leading up to the event.
Programme Ecotrekking Val d'Arda 2026
The detailed program for the 19th edition will be published by A.S.D. Lupi d'Appennino in the weeks preceding the event. Information confirmed to date:
- Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026 (Ferragosto)
- Theme: "On the ancient Dragon Trail"
- Confirmed route: 25 km with approximately 1200 m of positive elevation gain
- Start and finish: Casali di Morfasso (PC)
As in previous editions, a long route for trail runners, the 25 km race, and a non-competitive walk in Fiasp style open to families and walkers are expected, with refreshment points along the routes and a Ferragosto lunch upon arrival.
Highlights Ecotrekking Val d'Arda 2026
The 25 km route with 1200 m elevation gain on the "Sentiero dei Dragoni", between Mount Lama and Mount Menegosa, and the traditional Ferragosto lunch in Casali di Morfasso at the end of the day.
Prices Ecotrekking Val d'Arda 2026
Practical information — Ecotrekking Val d'Arda
Where
Start and finish in Casali di Morfasso, a hamlet of the Municipality of Morfasso (PC), in the upper Val d'Arda of the Piacenza Apennines.
How to get there
By car from Piacenza, you can reach Morfasso by driving up the Val d'Arda towards the Apennines; Casali is one of the hamlets in the municipal area. Car travel is recommended as the area is mountainous and poorly served by public transport.
When
August 15th (Ferragosto). Meeting is scheduled for early morning, with the start in the early hours of the day.
Registration and information
Information and registration through A.S.D. Lupi d'Appennino: website ecovaldarda.wordpress.com, email [email protected], or via WhatsApp to the organization's contacts.
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Where does it take place — Ecotrekking Val d'Arda
Casali di Morfasso
Casali di Morfasso, 29020 Morfasso