Verzasca (river)

The Verzasca is a 30-kilometre (19 mi) long Swiss Alpine river originating at Pizzo Barone and flowing into Lake Maggiore.^[1] It is known for its clear turquoise water and vibrant colored rocks, as well as its treacherous currents. The Verzasca Dam is a few kilometers upriver from Lake Maggiore.

Verzasca
The Verzasca at Lavertezzo
Location
Country	Switzerland
Physical characteristics
Source	Pizzo Barone
• coordinates	46.3908°N 8.7433°E / 46.3908; 8.7433
• elevation	2,864 m (9,396 ft)
Mouth	Lake Maggiore
• location	Lake Maggiore, Switzerland
• coordinates	46.1642°N 8.8528°E / 46.1642; 8.8528
Length	30 km (19 mi)
Basin features
Progression	Lake Maggiore→ Ticino→ Po→ Adriatic Sea

Geography

The Verzasca River valley (Valle Verzasca) is in Ticino, the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. Chestnut trees thrive at the bottom of the valley. The river's water is crystal clear, and the depth does not exceed 10 metres (33 ft). Its average temperature is 7 to 10 °C (45 to 50 °F).

Recreation

The river is a popular scuba diving location and the valley is used for bungee jumping. The diving conditions are usually best from late spring to early autumn.^[2]

See also

• List of rivers of Switzerland