At 1,630 meters above sea level, Passo Godi is one of the most fascinating passes in the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park. Easily reached in about twenty minutes from Scanno, this plateau is a place to experience all year round: in summer it is an oasis for hikers, in autumn it lights up with the warm colors of foliage, and in winter it transforms into a silent, snowy landscape.
Located halfway between Scanno and Villetta Barrea, Passo Godi is a natural crossroads between the Sagittario Valley side and the Alto Sangro side. Its open and bright location makes it the perfect starting point for discovering some of the area's most beautiful trails.
Trekking from Passo Godi: the most beautiful trails
Passo Godi is one of the best places to start a hike in the heart of the Park.
The trails are well-marked, with different levels of difficulty, and allow you to explore very different environments.
Here are the most interesting itineraries:
- Trail Y7 - From Scanno to Godi Pass
Difficulty: E (suitable for all);
Distance: about 9.5 km;
Average time: 3 hours;
Departure: Bioagriturismo Valle Scannese;
Arrival: Passo Godi.
The Y7 is the ideal trail for those who want to enjoy a relaxing walk, without challenging inclines and with a consistently clear trail. It starts from the Bioagriturismo Valle Scannese and goes up a bright valley, crossing meadows and a stretch of forest. Along the way you will come across a spring where you can refresh yourself: a small regenerating break before continuing to one of the most characteristic places on the route.
The most striking point of the itinerary is the Stazzo di Ziomas (1580 m), one of the most authentic pastoral shelters in the area, whose name derives from the ancient "zu mass," or "the boulder." It is a place that still tells the story of mountain tradition: in the summer months it houses shepherds and preserves a genuine and silent atmosphere.
From the stazzo, the trail continues with always moderate inclines, alternating between shady moments and scenic stretches, until it reaches Passo Godi.
- Trail Y9 - From Scanno to Campitello Pass
Difficulty: EE (requires good training);
Distance: about 5.8 km;
Average time: 3 hours;
Departure: Le Prata farmhouse in San Liborio;
Arrival: Valico del Campitello.
For those who want to experience the mountains in a more intense way, Y9 is a challenging and fascinating route. It is a steeper and more technical route than the others: it traverses marked inclines, rocky sections and high ground where the view suddenly opens up to the whole side of the Park.
The trail leads up to the Campitello Pass (1865 m), a grassy saddle with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
- Loop trail from Godi Pass to Mount Godi
Difficulty: EE (requires good training);
Length: 12 km;
Difference in elevation: +460 m;
Average time: 4 hours;
Start and finish: Parking lot of Lo Scoiattolo Shelter.
Among the most iconic trails in Godi Pass is the loop hike up to the summit of Mount Godi (2011 m), one of the most scenic peaks in the area. While it presents no special technical difficulties, the elevation gain and length require a good level of fitness.
It starts from the Lo Scoiattolo Shelter and follows a dirt road with a steady slope. After passing the ski lifts, the trail becomes a more direct path, tackling some easy rocky passages before entering the forest. The terrain alternates between soft areas and stony sections, until you reach a vast expanse of boulders-the remains of a large avalanche-which from a distance looks like a large snowpack.
The climb then resumes in the woods, always with steady but never extreme gradients, until it reaches the highland meadows that precede the summit. A short, easy rocky ridge finally leads to the summit of Mount Godi.
From up here the view is splendid: the Montagna Grande, the Marsicano, the Ferroio and the Alto Sangro ridges open up in all directions.
After enjoying the view, head back for a few minutes to the point where you resume the main loop trail. From here the descent begins: an easy and scenic section, perfect for relaxing and watching the landscape sloping down toward Passo Godi.
Before returning to the parking lot, we pass by the Stazzo di Ziomas (1585 m), perfect for a final break.
Fauna at Passo Godi: what to expect
Passo Godi is located in one of the richest areas of biodiversity in the Park. Here wildlife moves freely, thanks to the wide open spaces and forests surrounding the plateau:
- deer;
- foxes, often visible near the stazzi;
- Apennine chamois, especially in the Ferroio area and on higher ridges;
- raptors such as buzzards and, more rarely, golden eagles.
What to do in Passo Godi in winter
In winter, Passo Godi turns into one of the most attractive destinations to experience the mountains in slow mode, immersed in the silence of the snow and the snow-white landscapes of the National Park. Here those who love winter sports can find a variety of activities suited to their pace and level of experience.
In particular, there are both slopes dedicated to downhill and cross-country skiing. Also supporting those taking their first steps on the snow is the Ski School, active with courses and lessons that make this the perfect place to learn in total safety.
In addition to skiing, winter at Passo Godi also offers the opportunity to try your hand at wonderful snowshoeing, the most accessible and atmospheric activity to experience in the cold season.
How to get to Godi Pass from Scanno
Reaching Passo Godi from Scanno is easy: just follow the SS479 for about 13 km. The road is scenic and well-maintained, but in winter it is mandatory to have thermal tires or chains on board.
From the pass it is then possible to continue toward Villetta Barrea, thus entering the heart of Alto Sangro and the National Park.
Conclusion
Passo Godi represents a valuable resource for those who visit Scanno and wish to immerse themselves in the nature of the National Park in all seasons. From scenic trails to snow activities, from the quiet atmospheres of winter to the colors of autumn foliage, this plateau always offers opportunities for discovery and activities suitable for every type of visitor.
A place that is easily accessible, authentic and rich in natural beauty, to be experienced with respect and awareness.
