The national park maintains a small natural history museum in Pescasseroli that is worth an hour before heading out on the trails. Displays cover the park's geology, its flora across the seasons, and — most usefully — detailed sections on each of the major animal species. The bear exhibit explains the Marsican subspecies, its behaviour, and why this corner of the Apennines became its last stronghold. There are also live enclosures in an adjacent area where injured or orphaned animals that cannot be released are kept: brown bear, wolf, lynx, deer, and other park species.
The museum complex also houses the park headquarters and visitor information centre. Staff here are well-informed about current trail conditions, recent wildlife sightings, and the permit requirements for certain backcountry areas. If you are planning more than a day walk, this is the place to start.