Trail D5 in the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park is a hiking trail that connects two picturesque locations in the central Apennines: Spinella, near Pescasseroli, and Forca d'Acero, located near the village of San Donato Val di Comino. With a length of 8.56 kilometers and an estimated hiking time of about 3 hours and 50 minutes, the D5 trail offers an adventurous and immersive experience in the heart of one of Italy's most beautiful and protected natural areas.

The trail, classified with a difficulty “E” (Hiking), is suitable for hikers with an average physical condition and can be tackled either on foot or on horseback. Its year-round accessibility makes it an ideal choice for those who wish to explore the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park in any season, enjoying the different colors and atmospheres that nature offers at different times of the year.

Starting from Spinella, Trail D5 winds through a vast area of forest and grasslands that characterize the park's mountain landscape. As you progress along the trail, you find yourself immersed in an unspoiled environment where the beech forest reigns supreme. These majestic trees, which have deep roots in the history of the Apennines, create a magical and enveloping atmosphere, providing shade and coolness even on the hottest days.

The trail culminates at Forca d'Acero, one of the most striking passes in the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park. Located at an elevation of about 1,538 meters, Forca d'Acero marks the border between Lazio and Abruzzo and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This place is an important stop for hikers who want to immerse themselves in the wild beauty of the park and admire the landscape that opens up before them.

San Donato Val di Comino, the village located in the vicinity of Forca d'Acero, is a landmark for those wishing to explore the park. This charming village, with its cobbled streets and old stone houses, offers an atmosphere of quiet and serenity. From here, it is possible to set out to discover the wonders of the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park, an area that holds extraordinary biodiversity.

In fact, the park is a refuge for some of the most emblematic animal species of the Apennines, including the Marsican brown bear and the Apennine wolf. These animals, symbols of unspoiled wilderness, move silently through the woods and mountains, and spotting them in their natural habitat is a unique thrill. Apennine chamois, deer, roe deer, and golden eagles also inhabit these lands, making every hike an opportunity to observe the park's wealth of wildlife up close.

The park's flora is no less fascinating. In addition to the vast beech forests, the area is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, which contribute to a mosaic of colors and scents that enchant visitors. The lush beauty of the vegetation makes every walk a complete sensory experience, where every corner of the park tells the story of an ecosystem that has withstood time and human challenges.