The park is home to rich wildlife, including iconic Alpine species such as the Alpine ibex, chamois, and red deer. The golden eagle represents one of the park's most magnificent predatory birds, alongside other raptors like the bearded vulture (recently reintroduced). Marmots are commonly seen in the meadows, while snow hares and ermines inhabit higher altitudes. The park also supports populations of black grouse, ptarmigan, and various other mountain bird species. In recent years, there have been occasional sightings of brown bears and wolves, indicating the park's role in large carnivore conservation in the Alps.
Stelvio National Park hosts over 1,800 plant species adapted to various altitude zones. The lower valleys feature deciduous forests of beech, ash, and maple, while higher elevations support coniferous forests of spruce, larch, and stone pine. Above the tree line (approximately 2,200m), alpine meadows display a spectacular array of flowers including edelweiss, alpine roses, gentians, and various orchid species. The park's diverse habitats, from rocky outcrops to wetlands, support numerous endemic plant species. The vegetation zones clearly demonstrate the transition from sub-alpine to alpine environments, making it a significant location for botanical research.
The park's geological structure is dominated by metamorphic and sedimentary rocks, with the Ortles-Cevedale massif forming its core. The landscape has been dramatically shaped by glacial activity during the last ice age, resulting in characteristic U-shaped valleys, cirques, and moraines. The area features numerous active glaciers, including the Forni Glacier, one of the largest in Italy. The park's rock formations primarily consist of gneiss, schist, and limestone, creating diverse geological environments. Mineral deposits, particularly iron and copper, have historically been mined in the region, leaving behind interesting geological and cultural heritage sites.
Established in 1935, Stelvio National Park is Italy's largest historical national park and was created to protect the unique Ortles-Cevedale mountain range. The park's territory has been shaped by human presence since prehistoric times, with evidence of ancient settlements and pastoral activities. During World War I, the area became a significant battleground between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces, with numerous military fortifications still visible today. The famous Stelvio Pass road, built between 1820-1825 under the Austrian Empire, remains one of the park's most remarkable historical features. The park has played a crucial role in preserving both the natural heritage and the cultural traditions of the local Alpine communities.
The park's most famous landmark is the Stelvio Pass (Passo dello Stelvio), the highest paved mountain pass in the Eastern Alps at 2,757m, featuring 48 hairpin turns. The Ortles peak (3,905m) represents the highest point in South Tyrol and offers challenging climbing routes. The park contains numerous mountain lakes, including Lake Cancano and its distinctive dam system. The Three Languages Peak (Dreisprachenspitze) marks the historic meeting point of Italian, German, and Romansh-speaking regions. The park also features several thermal springs, most notably in Bormio, and numerous World War I fortifications and trenches that form an open-air museum. The extensive network of hiking trails, including the Alta Via dell'Ortles, provides access to these remarkable features.
Stelvio National Park experiences a typical Alpine climate with significant variations due to its elevation range (from 650m to 3,905m). Summers are mild with average temperatures between 15-20°C at lower elevations, while winters are harsh with temperatures frequently dropping below -10°C at higher altitudes. Snow typically covers the higher regions from November to May, with annual snowfall averaging 8-10 meters at high elevations. The park experiences frequent precipitation throughout the year, with peak rainfall in spring and autumn. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and visitors should be prepared for sudden temperature drops and storms, even in summer months.
Italy
46.5330°, 10.5330°
1935
1307
Stelvio National Park is one of the largest protected areas in the Alps, featuring dramatic mountain landscapes and glaciers. The park is home to diverse alpine wildlife including ibex, chamois, and golden eagles. It's renowned for the famous Stelvio Pass, one of the highest paved mountain passes in the Eastern Alps.