The Tonale Pass in winter is one of those destinations that simply must be on your list of winter getaways. Here, lovers of snow, sports, and winter activities will find everything they could wish for well into spring. In fact, the winter season here lasts until early May. Not bad for those with snow in their DNA!
Skiing at Passo del Tonale
The slopes of the Passo del Tonale ski area wind through vast snow-covered expanses and breathtaking views, while those of the Presena Glacier offer even more striking scenery amid rocks and imposing mountains. All the ski areas within the Ponte di Legno–Tonale region are interconnected. In addition to 30 ski lifts, there is also a free ski bus, perfect for family outings. There are slopes for everyone, suitable for all skill levels and ages.
Children (and adults) who are still learning can count on certified instructors with proven experience. We turned to the Ski Evolution, which offers both private and group lessons and courses to suit every need. Our lesson with instructor Andrea was a success!
Snow Playgrounds at Passo del Tonale
But you won’t just find ski slopes and ski schools around here—there’s plenty of fun to be had, too. There are two snow playgrounds for kids. We’re talking about the Fantaski and the Tonale Mountain Center, where little ones and kids who don’t ski can have fun safely on tubes and inflatables. The parks are served by convenient magic carpets. There’s also a heated indoor area—perfect for those with very young children or for taking a break when you’ve spent many hours outdoors in the cold. Here’s our article: Snow Playgrounds at Passo del Tonale
Snowmobiling at the Tonale Pass
Another activity in Trentino that you can only do here is riding a snowmobile or taking part in scenic excursions or dinners at mountain huts—all by snowmobile. All you need is a driver’s license, and you’re all set to experience this thrill. Children over 5 years old can ride along too (as passengers, of course), but remember: speed is no joke! Read Snowmobile Tour at Tonale to find out more.
Winter Hiking—Family Snowshoe Hikes
Between Ponte di Legno and the Tonale Pass, the snow-covered landscapes are truly magical. With snowshoes, you can reach hidden corners surrounded by nature. It’s also a great way for families with children to explore the area, enjoying the snow at a leisurely pace. There are 17 snowshoe trails in the region, which you can choose based on your experience, fitness level, desired duration, and elevation gain. If you’d rather play it safe, you can rely on mountain guides, just as we did. A real blessing during an unexpected March snowstorm! To learn about the snowshoe trails and their features, click HERE
Paradice Music – Concerts on Ice
What an experience! If you love music, this is one of those things you really can’t miss (and you won’t find it in many other places!). Every winter on the Presena Glacier, there’s PARADICE MUSIC, a unique event that combines music with the magic of ice. Inside the Paradice Dome, located at Passo Paradiso (a 7-minute ride on the Paradiso gondola, departing from Passo Tonale), musicians perform live shows that are always different. And for the audience: you’ll be seated on ice bleachers (but don’t worry—you’ll be provided with an insulated cushion!). You can find all the details HERE
Dog Sledding at the Tonale Pass
Another special experience is undoubtedly dog sledding—a true sport, but also a passion for these magnificent dogs, who find their ideal environment up here. The guides are experienced athletes, well-trained and committed to animal welfare, so the sleds glide effortlessly over the snow, and you can either enjoy the ride (and the scenery!) or test your skills as a musher. Even children as young as 10 can take part in a mini-course to become a musher! Upon returning from your outing (whether a tour or a course), you can tend to and cuddle the huskies, who, thanks to their friendly nature, also assist the Alpine Rescue Service and Civil Protection. We’ve talked about this in Dog Sledding in Trentino-Alto Adige. All the info HERE
Where to Stay in Ponte di Legno and Tonale
A Night in an Igloo
Perfect for celebrating something truly special, a night in an igloo on the Presena Glacier will be a night you’ll never forget for the rest of your life! Info at: Sleeping in an igloo
Traditional Accommodations
If, on the other hand, you prefer something more traditional, there’s a wide selection of hotels, apartments, and family-friendly hotels. Here’s a hotel we’ve tried ourselves and really enjoyed: the Blu Hotel Acquaseria in Ponte di Legno. Here you can choose to stay in an apartment or in a room with hotel service: excellent, beautifully presented dinner and breakfast, convenient parking and a garage, a kids’ club with entertainment, and even a beautiful wellness area!
Discover the Tonale Pass in the summer
- Marmot Village at Tonale
- At the Smugglers’ Pass, among ibex and marmots
- Check out our complete guide: Visiting Tonale in the Summer with Kids