Pelpi Trail

The Pelpi Trail of Bedonia

The Pelpi Trail is now a well-established event in the Parma Apennines running calendar. It takes place in Bedonia, a small municipality in the Province of Parma, in Emilia-Romagna, nestled in the upper Taro valley on the border with Liguria. Organized by the sports association A.S.D. Vallinbici with the patronage of the Municipality of Bedonia, the event is part of the Parma Trail Running Provincial Circuit and attracts hundreds of runners from all over Northern Italy each year.

The Routes

The Pelpi Trail offers three different ways to experience the mountains, suitable for both seasoned athletes and those simply looking for a day outdoors:

• Long Race: a challenging course of about 26 km with over 1,300 meters of positive elevation gain, which reaches the highest peaks above Bedonia and rewards those who can manage climbs and descents on technical terrain.
• Short Race: a course of about 10.5 km with just over 500 meters of elevation gain, ideal for getting into trail running without tackling the longer distance.
• Fun Walk: a non-competitive loop of about 10 km, open to everyone, perfect for families and Nordic walking enthusiasts.

Over 95% of the routes are on dirt roads and trails, through woods, ridges, and ancient paths that tell the story of this corner of the Apennines.

Nature and Landscape

Bedonia is described by the organizers as “the ideal place to run and spend a few days relaxing immersed in nature.” The races cross a still pristine territory, dominated by the mountains separating Emilia from Liguria. It is an opportunity to discover the most authentic Parma mountains, far from mass tourism, where running also becomes a way to get to know the local landscape and traditions.

A Local Event

Behind the Pelpi Trail is “a group of friends who love running” and who work all year round to promote Bedonia and the upper Taro valley. Race day is not just about competition: a race pack with local typical products, aid stations along the route, a photo service, and the warm welcome of a small mountain village are as much a part of the experience as the kilometers and elevation gain.