La Ciaspolada
The oldest international snowshoe race, in Val di Non
About La Ciaspolada
The oldest snowshoe race in the world
La Ciaspolada is one of the most iconic sporting and cultural events in Trentino-Alto Adige. It takes place every year in early January, around the Epiphany, in Fondo, a village within the municipality of Borgo d'Anaunia, in the heart of the Val di Non, in the province of Trento. Born in 1973 from an idea that combined sport with mountain tradition, the first edition had just eighteen participants: today, the race attracts thousands of people from all over Italy and abroad, confirming its status as the oldest and most original snowshoe race.
A popular yet international competition
La Ciaspolada has a dual soul. On one hand, there is the competitive race, which in recent years has been recognized as a Snowshoeing World Championship and features international-level athletes; on the other, the amateur race, open to everyone, featuring the famous "bisonti" who tackle the course in costume, in groups, or simply for the joy of running in the snow. It is this balance between competition and village festival that makes the event unique.
The course and setting
The track winds through the snowy landscapes of the Upper Val di Non, finishing in the village of Fondo. The altitude and mountain location offer stunning scenery, while the organization, managed by the Val di Non Tourism Board, provides the snowshoes and handles every logistical detail. No special athletic preparation is required: La Ciaspolada is designed for everyone to enjoy, from professional athletes to children, families, and groups in costume.
A full weekend of events
The race is the centerpiece of a widespread program involving local towns: evenings with live music, group award ceremonies, moments of solidarity like the "Ciaspolada for Peace," and the grand CiaspolFest that concludes the festivities. It is a perfect opportunity to discover the hospitality and traditions of the Val di Non, a land of apples, orchards, and mountain villages.
An icon of Trentino winter tourism
For over half a century, La Ciaspolada has been a symbol of the Trentino winter, blending sport, folklore, and regional promotion. Its history, longevity, and international recognition make it one of the most beloved events in the Trentino-Alto Adige region.
La Ciaspolada — edition 2026
La Ciaspolada 2026: the snowless challenge
The 52nd edition, held on January 4, 2026, in Fondo di Borgo d'Anaunia, went down in history for the "Plan B" adopted by the committee led by Gianni Holzknecht in the face of a lack of snow: a combined formula with 4.7 kilometers of running and only the final 700 meters on snowshoes in the town center. A choice described as spectacular, which allowed the event and its international vocation to be saved.
In the competitive race, the Swiss athlete Roberto Delorenzi (17'10") won the men's category, and the Italian Vivien Bonzi (20'40") won the women's, both debuting on the Ciaspolada course. Before the start, a minute of silence was observed in memory of the victims of the Crans-Montana tragedy. The event confirmed its international recognition ahead of the 2027 edition, scheduled for January 5 as a World Championship.
Programme La Ciaspolada 2026
2026 Edition Program
- January 3 — "La Ciaspolada for Peace": evening with live music in Fondo; registration closes.
- January 4 — 10:30 AM start of the competitive race; followed by the amateur "bisonti" race. Award ceremonies in the afternoon.
- January 5 — CiaspolFest in Cavareno.
Highlights La Ciaspolada 2026
- Unprecedented combined formula: 4.7 km running + 700 m snowshoeing.
- Victories by Roberto Delorenzi (SUI) and Vivien Bonzi (ITA), both on their debut.
- Approximately 1,970 registered participants including pros and amateurs.
- Minute of silence for the victims of Crans-Montana.
Prices La Ciaspolada 2026
Practical information — La Ciaspolada
Getting there
By car: A22 Brenner motorway, exit at Trento Nord or San Michele all'Adige, then take the SS 43 towards Val di Non; at Dermulo, turn towards the Upper Val di Non until you reach Fondo (Borgo d'Anaunia). By train: Trento or Mezzocorona stations, with bus connections to the Val di Non.
Registration and information
Online registration is available on the official website ciaspolada.it. There are both competitive and non-competitive categories; snowshoes are provided by the organization. Info: Azienda per il Turismo Val di Non, Via Roma 21, 38013 Borgo d'Anaunia (TN), tel. +39 0463 830133, [email protected].
Where to stay
The Val di Non offers numerous accommodations in Fondo, Cavareno, Malosco, and nearby villages. Booking in advance is recommended during the race period.
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Where does it take place — La Ciaspolada
Fondo (Val di Non)
Via Roma 21, 38013 Borgo d'Anaunia