40 Best Hikes in the Dolomites for 2025 (+ Map) (original) (raw)

Hiking in the Dolomites is an intoxicating outdoor, cultural, and culinary experience. From the tear-inducing beauty of the peaks to the charm and hospitality of the mountain huts, hiking here can easily become an addiction.

Our guide presents the best hikes in the Dolomites Mountains, ranked by difficulty, based on 12 trips to this region.

To date, our absolute favorite Dolomites hikes are Tullen Summit in Val di Funes, Piz Duleda in Val Gardena, Tofana di Rozes Circuit Trail in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Pala di San Martino Circuit Trail in Pale di San Martino, Lago di Braies to Hochalpenkopf Peak and Torre dei Scarperi Circuit Trail in Alta Pusteria.

When planning a Dolomites hiking trip, it’s important to understand the enormity of this Italian Alps mountain range. The Dolomites are composed of 26 sub-ranges and stretch across three Italian regions: Veneto, Trentino Alto-Adige (Trentino – Südtirol), and Friuli Venezia Giulia.

At the very minimum, you need five to seven days to hike in this vast region. The more time you have, the better.

Piz Duleda Day Hike, Dolomites

Dolomites Hiking Map

Each trail mentioned in this guide is displayed on the map. If you click the trail, you can directly access the respective trail guide.

Colors signify regions. For example, the Dolomites hikes starting in Val Gardena are marked in coral red. The Dolomites hikes starting in Alta Pusteria are marked in blue.

Easy Hikes in the Dolomites

1. Seceda Ridgeline to Regensburger Hütte Circuit Hike

Seceda Hiking Trail, Dolomites, Northern Italy

Seceda is a mountain in the Odle/Geisler Group in South Tyrol. The Seceda summit (2518 meters) is one of the most celebrated photography spots in the Dolomites, because of its striking view of the dagger-like Fermeda Peaks.

The easiest and swiftest way to reach Seceda is by cableway ascent from the village of Ortisei in Val Gardena. From the Seceda cableway mountain station, it’s a mere 10-minute walk to the Seceda summit.

This dazzling location is just the beginning of a wonderful loop trail in Puez Odle Nature Park. From the summit, follow the Seceda ridgeline in the direction of the staggering Odle/Geisler peaks.

When you reach the Furcella de Pana/Panascharte notch, continue right on trail 1 in the direction of Baita Troier. The dizzy trail that plummets to the north from Panascharte leads to Val di Funes and is currently closed due to a rockfall.

The hike continues to the Pieralongia mountain pasture, marked by a rustic hut and dagger-like spires jutting out of the earth.

Next, the path descends amid stone pine to Rifugio Firenze (Regensburger Hütte in German), a mountain hut at the foot of Mount Stevia. The hut terrace faces the Sassolungo Group.

You can eat lunch here, or later at Baita Troier, on the return route to Seceda.

Insider Tips

When to Hike | The Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cableways usually operate from early June until early November. See opening hours.

Alternative Ascents | You can also hike to Seceda from the Col Raiser gondola mountain station (1 hour). The Col Raiser gondola is a great option if you’re staying in Selva di Val Gardena, or Santa Cristina. Alternatively, you can hike to Seceda without a cable car (see Monte Pic hike), or from the Resciesa plateau (see Resciesa to Seceda hike).

Sunrise at Seceda | If you want to see the sunrise at Seceda, stay the night at Almhotel Col Raiser, or Rifugio Fermeda. Wild camping is not allowed at Seceda, or anywhere in Puez-Odle Nature Park.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Seceda Cableway Mountain Station

Cableway Ascent/Descent | Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda Cableways, Ortisei, Val Gardena

Distance | 8.9 km circuit

Time Needed | 3:30 hours without breaks

Difficulty | Easy – Moderate

Where to Stay in Ortisei | Appartmenthotel Residence Elvis (budget), Hotel Hell (midrange), Alpin Garden Luxury Maison & SPA – Adults Only (luxury), or Hotel Angelo Engel (luxury)

Learn More: Seceda to Rifugio Firenze Hike

2. Adolf Munkel Trail

Geisler Alm, Val di Funes, Hiking the Adolf Munkel Trail, Dolomites

The Adolf Munkel Trail (Via delle Odle, Adolf Munkel Weg) is a hiking path that runs along the base of the Odle/Geisler Group in Val di Funes (Villnösstal in German).

It’s one of the most impressive day hikes in the Dolomites because it brings you to the very foot of the piercing Geisler Peaks.

As you weave in and out of stone pine and larch forest, you’ll see these remarkable spires jutting out of fields of pearly-white scree.

The Adolf Munkel Trail also strings together some of the loveliest alpine pasture huts (Alm in German, Malga in Italian) in Val di Funes: including Dusler Alm, Geisler Alm, and Gschnagenhardt Alm. All these huts offer hungry hikers delicious food served with unforgettable views.

Insider Tips

Best Time of Day | For the best light, hike the Adolf Munkel Trail towards the end of the day (3-4 hours before sunset). Depending on which month you’re visiting, this could be in the late afternoon, or in the early evening.

South Tyrolean Cuisine | Allow extra time in order to savor a South Tyrolean meal at one of the alpine pasture huts.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Zannes/Zans Car Park, Val di Funes

Distance | 9.2 km circuit

Time Needed | 3:00 – 3:30 hours

Difficulty | Easy – Moderate

Where to Stay in Val di Funes | Appartements Pension Sonia (budget), Fallerhof (budget), Hotel Fines (midrange), Proihof (midrange), or Hotel Tyrol Dolomites slow living (luxury)

Learn More: Adolf Munkel Trail Guide

3. Tre Cime di Lavaredo Circuit Hike

Walking the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Drei Zinnen hiking trail, Golden Hour, Dolomites

I always say that if mountain ranges were musical genres then the Italian Dolomites would be opera – like La Traviata or Eugene Onegin. You know the ones that are so achingly beautiful that crying is the only appropriate response. When you want to see the “Wagner” of the Dolomites, head directly to the mighty three peaks of the Sexten.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen in German) is the name given to three massive peaks in the Sexten Dolomites: The Cima Grande (2,999 m), Cima Occidentale (2,973 m), and Cima Piccola (2,857 m).

The circuit trail around the three peaks is one of the most popular outings in the Dolomites, because of the unbelievable scenery, easy-moderate trail difficulty, and approachable length.

The hike starts at the mountain hut Rifugio Auronzo, which is accessible by a toll road. From Rifugio Auronzo, you can either start the circuit clockwise on trail 105 towards Langelam or counter-clockwise on trail 101 towards Rifugio Lavaredo. It’s more popular to hike the loop counter-clockwise, but we prefer clockwise.

Though most people venture here to behold the mighty Three Peaks, they soon realize that Tre Cime di Lavaredo is just the beginning of an unending visual feast that extends in every possible direction. Along this Dolomites hiking trail, you’ll be equally mesmerized by the fantastical Cadini di Misurina and jagged Monte Paterno/Paternkofel.

Before, or after completing the circuit trail, we recommend detouring to the jaw-dropping Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint.

For a tasty lunch facing Tre Cime di Lavaredo, grab a bite to eat at Rifugio Locatelli/Dreizinnenhütte.

Insider Tips

Toll Road | The toll road to Rifugio Auronzo is usually open from late May/beginning of June until late October/early November, depending on snow and ice conditions. To find out if the toll road is open, you can reach out to the Auronzo tourist office: iat@comune.auronzo.bl.it

Hut Opening Times | The mountain huts along the trail are usually open from late June until late September.

When to Hike | Given the popularity of this Dolomites hiking destination, we suggest starting early in the morning, or late in the afternoon. You can drive to Rifugio Auronzo at any time (during high season). The staff responsible for collecting the toll fee is present at the toll station from 6 am until 8 pm. If you pass the toll station before 6 am, you can pick up your ticket by pressing the clearly visible button and pay the toll upon return (after your hike).

Extend the Hike | If you’d like to experience staying in a mountain hut, check out our 3-day Tre Cime di Lavaredo trek.

Trail Stats

Where | Tre Cime Nature Park, South Tyrol, and Belluno

Trailhead | Rifugio Auronzo, Auronzo di Cadore

Distance | 9.7 km circuit

Time Needed | 4 hours

Difficulty | Easy – Moderate

Where to Stay in Alta Pusteria | Guesthouse – Cultural Center Gustav Mahler (budget), or Hotel Kirchenwirt (midrange) in Dobbiaco

Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo | Hotel Meuble Oasi (budget), Hotel Ambra Cortina D’Ampezzo (midrange), Camina Suite & Spa (luxury), Hotel de Len (luxury), or Dolomiti Lodge Alvera (luxury)

Learn More: Tre Cime di Lavaredo Circuit Day Hike

4. Armentara Meadows Trail

Armentara Meadows Hike, Alta Badia, Dolomites

If you’re in the mood for a gentle saunter across sloping meadows, this hike in Alta Badia is for you.

Walking across Armentara meadows is like listening to a Rossini, or Donizetti opera. It’s light, happy, and effortless. That’s my last opera reference, promise!

The Armentara plateau is located on the western edge of Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park in Alta Badia.

To start this hike, head to the village of Badia in Alta Badia. Take the Santa Croce Chairlift followed by the La Crusc Chairlift to the La Crusc/Santa Croce/Heiligkreuz church.

From the pilgrimage church, follow trail 15 to Armentara, beneath the arresting rock faces of Mt. Sasso di Santa Croce. The trail slowly and continuously descends across rolling green pastures, peppered with hay huts.

For lunch, we recommend stopping at Űtia Ranch da André. From this hut, continue on trail 7a all the way down to Badia (1:15 hours).

Though this hike presents no technical difficulty, it may be difficult for hikers who are uncomfortable with long descents (800 meters loss). Feel free to reverse the trail, descending with the cableway instead.

Trail Stats

Where | Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | La Crusc Church

Cableway Ascent | Santa Croce Chairlift followed by the La Crusc Chairlift, Badia, Alta Badia

Distance | 9 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 3 hours

Difficulty | Easy

Where to Stay in Badia | Chalet Planvart (budget), or Hotel Badia Hill (luxury)

Learn More: Armentara Meadows Day Hike

5. Baita Segantini and Monte Castellaz Hike

Pale di San Martino, Dolomites

Baita Segantini is an alpine pasture hut directly facing the Pale di San Martino mountain range in Trentino.

While most people make a beeline for Baita Segantini, we recommend approaching the hut from Monte Castellaz. It’s a far more interesting approach, rewarding hikers with dramatic views of the Pala Group from multiple angles.

Starting at the Passo Rolle, a mountain pass high above San Martino di Castrozza, hike to the Capanna Cervino mountain hut. Proceed along the road in the direction of Baita Segantini for about 10 minutes. When you reach a signed intersection, turn left towards the solitary Monte Castellaz mountain.

The trail ascends to the summit of Monte Castellaz, marked by the Cristo Pensante (“Pensive Christ”) sculpture. Enjoy the various viewpoints, before starting the descent along the north flank of Castellaz.

When the trail levels, you’ll hike across grassy pastures towards the Pale di San Martino peaks. The trail ushers you to the perfectly positioned Baita Segantini hut.

From Baita Segantini, follow the road all the way down to Passo Rolle (45 minutes).

Insider Tips

Best Time of Day | Hike this trail in the late afternoon, or early evening, and watch the sunset at Baita Segantini.

Parking | There’s a large, free parking lot at Passo Rolle.

Extend the Hike | You can extend this hike by hiking to Val Venegia from Baita Segantini.

Trail Stats

Where | Pale di San Martino Natural Park, Trentino

Trailhead | Passo Rolle

Distance | 9.2 km circuit

Time Needed | 3:00 – 3:30 hours

Difficulty | Easy

**Where to Stay in San Martino di Castrozza | Residence Taufer (budget), Hotel Vienna (midrange), or Sayonara Nature & Wellness Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Baita Segantini Hiking Guide

6. Sentiero Viel del Pan and Alta Via delle Cresta

Viel del Pan, Dolomites, Northern Italy

Sentiero Viel del Pan (Viel dal Pan in Ladin, Bindelweg in German) is a hiking trail which crosses the southern slopes of the Padon chain and delivers unparalleled views of Marmolada, the highest mountain in the Dolomites.

Viel del Pan connects the Passo Pordoi mountain pass with Lago di Fedaia.

Rather than do a point-to-point hike, it’s possible to hike a circuit, by following the moderate Alta Via dell Cresta to Rifugio Viel del Pan, and returning to Passo Pordoi along the easy Viel del Pan.

This is a fantastic hike to do if you’re driving the Great Dolomites Road.

If you’re in the mood for an easy walk, you can forgo the Alta Via trail and simply walk the Viel del Pan out-and-back to Rifugio Viel del Pan.

Trail Stats

Where | Padon Chain, Trentino

Trailhead | Passo Pordoi

Distance | 7 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 2:30 hours

Difficulty | Easy

Where to Stay at Passo Pordoi | Hotel Col di Lana (midrange)

Where to Stay in Val di Fassa | Locanda degli Artisti Art Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Sentiero Viel del Pan

7. Sesto to Val Fiscalina Valley Walk

Val Fiscalina / Fischleintal hiking trail, Dolomites, Italy

Val Fiscalina/Fischleintal is a gorgeous side valley of Valle di Sesto/Sextental, famous for its view of the Sesto/Sexten Sundial.

Many excursions into the Sexten mountains begin in Val Fiscalina, however the valley itself is a wonderful destination for leisurely walking.

For a nice, easy walk, we recommend hiking from the village of Sesto all the way through Val Fiscalina to Rifugio Fonda Valle/Talschlusshütte.

This is a great place to walk with children.

For a longer, more adventurous hike, you can extend the hike to Rifugio Locatelli, the mountain hut which stands north of the famous Three Peaks (Tre Cime di Lavaredo).

Trail Stats

Where | Sexten Dolomites, Alta Pusteria, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Sesto/Sexten

Distance | 12.2 km circuit

Time Needed | 3:15 hours

Difficulty | Easy

Where to Stay in Sesto | Caravan Park Sexten (budget), B&B Grüne Laterne – Lanterna Verde (budget), Hotel Royal (midrange), Bad Moos Dolomites Spa Resort (luxury)

Learn More: How to Visit Val Fiscalina

8. Santa Maddalena Panorama Trail

Santa Maddalena, Val di Funes, Dolomites

Santa Maddalena (St. Magdalena in German) is a village in Val di Funes (Villnösstal) in South Tyrol.

This small mountain village is home to the historic Santa Maddalena Church, which is one of the most popular photo motifs in the Dolomites. It’s also the start of an excellent panoramic hike.

This circuit trail weaves through meadows, pockets of forest, and historic farmsteads. There are fantastic views of the Odle Peaks and Val di Funes throughout.

Trail Stats

Where | Val di Funes, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Santa Maddalena Village

Distance | 9.5 km circuit

Time Needed | 3:30 hours

Difficulty | Easy

**Where to Stay in Val di Funes | Appartements Pension Sonia (budget), Fallerhof (budget), Hotel Fines (midrange), Proihof (midrange), or Hotel Tyrol Dolomites slow living (luxury)

Learn More: Santa Maddalena Panorama Trail

9. Monte Specie

Monte Specie/Strudelkopf Summit, Dolomites

Monte Specie (Strudelkopf in German) is an easy-to-reach, panoramic summit in the Braies Dolomites, overlooking Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cadini di Misurina, and the Cristallo Group.

This straightforward hike starts atop the Prato Piazza high plateau, above Braies Valley. The trail leads across mountain pastures to reach the summit of Monte Specie.

This is an ideal hiking destination for sunrise and/or sunset.

Trail Stats

Where | Braies/Prags Dolomites, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Prato Piazza Car Park

Distance | 8.8 km circuit

Time Needed | 2:50 hours

Difficulty | Easy

**Where to Stay in Braies/Prags Valley | Garni Bergblick (budget), Moserhof Agriturismo Refugium (budget), or Farmhouse Hanslerhof (midrange)

Learn More: Monte Specie Hike

10. Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint Hike

Sentiero Bonacossa Trail, Cadini di Misurina, Dolomites

The Cadini di Misurina mountains form the southernmost mountain group of the Sexten Dolomites.

There are many challenging hiking trails which bisect this range, including the Sentiero Bonacossa Trail, which we’ll talk about later in this Dolomites hiking guide.

However, to see the most staggeringly beautiful viewpoint of the Cadini mountains, you only have to walk 30 minutes from the Rifugio Auronzo car park, accessible by bus/car via the Rifugio Auronzo toll road.

It’s also possible to skip the toll road and walk to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint from Lake Antorno. This 9.7 km out-and-back hike takes 3:40 hours to complete.

Trail Stats

Where | Sexten Dolomites, Belluno

Trailhead | Rifugio Auronzo

Distance | 3.9 km out-and-back

Time Needed | 1:30 hours

Difficulty | Easy

Where to Stay | Albergo Chalet Lago Antorno (midrange) at Lake Antorno, or Grand Hotel Misurina (midrange) at Lake Misurina

Learn More: Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint Hike

11. Hans and Paula Steger Trail

Hans and Paula Steger Trail, Alpe di Siusi, Dolomites

The Hans and Paula Steger Trail is an easy, family-friendly hike atop Alpe di Siusi, starting in Compaccio.

The full circuit is 14.6 km, but you can shorten the hike, by taking the Almbus back to Compaccio from Saltria.

Much of the appeal of this trail lies in the dining opportunities along the way. We highly recommend eating lunch at Gostner Schwaige and/or Rauchhütte.

Trail Stats

Where | Alpe di Siusi, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Compaccio/Compatsch, Alpe di Siusi

Distance | 14.6 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 4:30 hours

Difficulty | Easy

Where to Stay in Compaccio | Hotel Seelaus (midrange), Hotel Rosa ECO Alpine Spa Resort (luxury), or Alpina Dolomites (luxury)

Where to Stay in Castelrotto | Schgaguler Hotel (luxury), or Hotel Lamm (luxury)

Learn More: Hans and Paula Steger Trail

12. Alpe di Siusi Meadows Circuit Trail

Alpe di Siusi Seiser Alm meadows walk, Dolomites

Our Alpe di Siusi Meadows Trail combines the best part of the Alpe di Siusi-Monte Pana Trail with the best stretch of the Hans and Paula Steger Path. It stays on the plateau the whole time, ambling across rolling meadows. This route doesn’t scale mountains, or descend to the valley.

If you’re based in Val Gardena, this is the best way to see Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm in a few hours.

From the Ortisei-Alpe di Siusi gondola mountain station, follow trail 9 to Schgaguler Schwaige and all the way down to Saltria, a small settlement on the plateau.

Next, ascend the Hans and Paula Steger Trail (trail 30) in the direction of Compaccio/Compatsch, detouring to Gostner Schwaige and Rauchhütte along the way.

Complete the circuit to the Ortise-Alpe di Siusi gondola mountain station via Malga Sanon.

Trail Stats

Where | Alpe di Siusi, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Oritisei-Alpe di Siusi gondola mountain station

Distance | 14.4 km circuit

Time Needed | 4:25 hours

Difficulty | Easy

**Where to Stay in Ortisei | Appartmenthotel Residence Elvis (budget), Hotel Hell (midrange), Alpin Garden Luxury Maison & SPA – Adults Only (luxury), or Hotel Angelo Engel (luxury)

Learn More: Alpe di Siusi Meadows Hike

Moderate Day Hikes in the Dolomites

13. Lago di Braies to Hochalpenkopf

Seekofel (Croda del Becco) and Senneser Karspitze Peaks, Hochalpenkopf Hike, Prags Dolomites

The circuit hike from Lago di Braies to the summit of Hochalpenkopf/Cima dei Colli Alti is perfect for anyone seeking a full-day adventure in the Braies/Prags Dolomites. Though this trail presents no technical difficulty, it is very long (16.9 km total) and requires stamina.

From Hotel Lake Braies, follow the circuit trail around the lake counter-clockwise. When you get to the opposite end of the lake, follow signs to Malga Foresta/Grünwaldalm. After passing this alpine pasture hut, you’ll continue walking through the Val di Foresta/Grünwaldtal valley.

The trail eventually ascends to the remote Ütia Fojadora mountain pasture. From here, the trail continues across high-alpine pastures to Hochalpenkopf Peak. The views are spectacular. The trail ends with a steep (but manageable descent) back to Lake Braies.

Trail Stats

Where | Fanes-Sennes-Brais Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Lago di Braies, Valle di Braies/Pragser Tal Valley

Distance | 16.9 km circuit

Time Needed | 8 hours with breaks

Difficulty | Moderate

Where to Stay in Braies/Prags Valley | Garni Bergblick (budget), Moserhof Agriturismo Refugium (budget), or Farmhouse Hanslerhof (midrange)

Where to Stay in Monguelfo/Welsberg | Hotel Christof (luxury) or Silentium Dolomites Chalet (luxury)

Trail Guide: Lago di Braies to Hochalpenkopf

14. Sassolungo Circuit Trail

Sassolungo Circuit Trail, Dolomites

The Sassolungo (Langkofel in German, Saslonch in Ladin) Group is a compact mountain group which is located between Val Gardena and Val di Fassa.

This group is named after its most prominent peak, Sassolungo (3181 meters), which is the 9th highest peak in the Dolomites.

A long circuit trail wraps around the entire mountain group. It’s a 17.7 km trail that takes 6:15 hours to complete. Though it’s not a difficult trail, it’s quite long.

Along the way, hikers are rewarded with views of Marmolada, the Catinaccio-Sciliar Mountains, Alpe di Siusi, the Puez-Odle Mountains, and the Sella Group.

Trail Stats

Where | Sassolungo Group, South Tyrol and Trentino

Trailhead | Passo Sella

Distance | 17.7 km circuit

Time Needed | 6:15 hours

Difficulty | Moderate

**Where to Stay in Selva | Residence Antares (budget), Hotel Garni Morene (budget), Hotel Freina (midrange), or Linder Cycling Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Sassolungo Circuit Trail

15. Vallunga Valley and Val de Chedul

Vallunga Valley, Dolomites

Vallunga and Val de Chedul are two alpine valleys in Puez-Odle Nature Park.

This circuit hike links these two valleys with the Puez-Odle Altopiano.

This is a stunning route, which takes you to some of the quieter areas of the Val Gardena Dolomites.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Parcheggio Vallunga Car Park

Distance | 16.1 km circuit

Time Needed | 6 hours

Difficulty | Moderate

**Where to Stay in Selva | Residence Antares (budget), Hotel Garni Morene (budget), Hotel Freina (midrange), or Linder Cycling Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Vallunga and Val de Chedul

16. Passo Giau to Monte Mondeval

Mondeval Plateau Hike, Dolomites

Mondeval is a bowl-shaped plateau in the municipality of San Vito di Cadore within the Dolomites UNESCO System Pelmo – Croda da Lago.

The Mondeval plateau harbors many treasures including the archaeological burial site of Mondeval de Sora, the tiny Lago delle Bastelake, and the Monte Mondeval panoramic peak. We love Mondeval because of the views of Monte Pelmo, Lastoni di Formin, and Croda da Lago.

This circuit trail takes you to all the best places atop Mondeval, starting at the gorgeous Passo Giau mountain pass.

Trail Stats

Where | Ampezzo Dolomites, Belluno

Trailhead | Passo Giau

Distance | 12.8 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 5 hours

Difficulty | Moderate

Where to Stay in Pocol | Hotel Piccolo Pocol (budget)

Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo | Hotel Meuble Oasi (budget), Hotel Ambra Cortina D’Ampezzo (midrange), Camina Suite & Spa (luxury), Hotel de Len (luxury), or Dolomiti Lodge Alvera (luxury)

Trail Guide: Passo Giau to Monte Mondeval

17. Monte Pic Summit

Monte Pic Hike, Dolomites

Monte Pic/Picberg is a panoramic mountain in the Val Gardena Dolomites, high above Ortisei and Santa Cristina. You can easily combine Monte Pic with the Seceda Ridgeline, which is an excellent option when you want to hike to Seceda without a cableway.

We love this route, because it gives you a great overview of the Odle Group and the Seceda Alp. The trail connects a number of alpine pasture huts and refuges, which make for delightful rest stops along this gorgeous tour.

The highlights of this route is the panoramic view atop Monte Pic and the descent to the Baita Seurasas alpine pastures, one of the best-kept secrets in Val Gardena.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Cristauta/Praplan Car Park, Santa Cristina, Val Gardena

Distance | 13.9 km circuit

Time Needed | 6 hours

Difficulty | Moderate / Moderately-Difficult

Where to Stay in Santa Cristina | Smart Hotel Saslong (budget), Hotel Cristallo (midrange) Charme Hotel Uridl (midrange), Dorfhotel Beludei (luxury)

Learn More: Monte Pic Day Hike

18. Rifugio Genova and the Val di Funes Alpine Pastures

Rifugio Genova hike, Puez-Odle Nature Park, Dolomites

Rifugio Genova/Schlüterhütte is a mountain hut in Puez-Odle Nature Park. Starting at the Zannes Car Park (like the Adolf Munkel Trail) in Val di Funes, follow trail 6 in the direction of Furcella de Furcia/Kreuzjoch. This trail leads across quiet meadows and ascends steadily to the Kreuzjoch saddle.

This corner of Puez-Geisler Nature Park is delightfully quiet.

With steady views of the Puez and Fanes mountains, continue along trail 5 and then trail 3 to Rifugio Genova. Sasso di Santa Croce/Mount Heiligenkreuzkofel rises above Val Badia like a ship at the crest of a wave.

From Rifugio Genova, continue to Malga Gampen/Gampenalm (30 minutes) and then to Zans/Zannes (50 minutes). As you wander across the Val di Funes alpine pastures, you’ll be treated to yet another satisfying vista of the Geisler peaks.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Zannes/Zan Car Park in Val di Funes, South Tyrol

Distance | 11 km circuit

Time Needed | 4:30 hours

Difficulty | Moderate

**Where to Stay in Val di Funes | Appartements Pension Sonia (budget), Fallerhof (budget), Hotel Fines (midrange), Proihof (midrange), or Hotel Tyrol Dolomites slow living (luxury)

Learn More: Rifugio Genova Day Hike

19. Sass de Putia Circuit Hike

Sass de Putia, Dolomites

Sass de Putia/Peitlerkofel is a solitary two-headed mountain in Puez-Odle Nature Park.

A highly enjoyable hiking path circuits Sass de Putia, weaving through forest and across alpine pastures.

From the Passo delle Erbe mountain pass, follow the road towards Sass de Putia. When you reach the alpine pastures at the base of the mountain’s northern slopes (20 minutes), turn right and follow signs to the Forcela de Pütia/Peitlerscharte mountain saddle.

The ascent to the saddle is the hardest part of the hike. It’s straightforward, but continuously uphill.

From here, the trail descends across romantic alpine pastures and continues to Ütia Vaciara and Ütia de Göma, two huts directly on the trail. We had a wonderful lunch at Ütia de Göma.

Insider Tips

Where to Stay | Stay the night at Ütia de Börz, an upscale mountain refuge, located directly at the trailhead. Their food is outstanding.

Extend the Hike | You can combine this circuit hike with the summit of Sass de Putia (Grade A/B via ferrata). Alternatively, it’s possible to detour to Rifugio Genova from the Forcela de Pütia saddle.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Passo delle Erbe, Alta Badia

Distance | 12.8 circuit

Time Needed | 4 hours

Difficulty | Moderate

Where to Stay at Passo delle Erbe | Ütia de Börz (midrange)

Where to Stay in Val di Funes | Appartements Pension Sonia (budget), Fallerhof (budget), Hotel Fines (midrange), Proihof (midrange), or Hotel Tyrol Dolomites slow living (luxury)

Learn More: Sass de Putia Trail Guide

20. Rifugio Gardenacia – Gherdenacia Plateau – Rifugio Puez

Gardenacia Hütte, Alta Badia, Dolomites

Rifugio Puez (Puez Hütte, Ütia de Puez) and Rifugio Gardenacia are two mountain huts in Puez-Odle Nature Park.

This point-to-point Dolomites hike begins with the Gardenaccia Chairlift ascent from the village of La Villa in Val Badia. From the mountain station, follow trail 5 to Rifugio Gardenacia (50 minutes), a cheerful mountain hut facing Fanes with a dozen resident Haflinger horses.

Continue in the direction of Rifugio Puez on trail 5/11 and then trail 15. Trail 15 cuts across the vast and desolate Gherdenacia alpine plateau, which looks like a stone desert.

After ascending to Forcella de Gherdenacia, continue towards the cone-shaped Col dala Sone (2663 m) mountain. It’s another 40 minutes to Puez Hütte. Shortly before arriving at the hut, there are some impressive views of Vallunga/Langental Valley.

From Puez mountain hut, we followed trail 2 (direction: Colfosco) to Forcella de Ciampëi Scharte and then trail 4 followed by 4A to Corvara. Given the long descent (trail 4A), we think it’s better to end in Colfosco.

Insider Tips

Trail Variations | You could make this a circuit hike. When trail 4 intersects with trail 7, follow trail 7 to Forcella del Sassongher and then trail 5 back to Rifugio Gardenacia.

There are many ways to modify this hike. For example, you can hike down to Vallunga/Langental valley (trail 14) and end your hike in Selva di Val Gardena. You could also end the hike at Passo Gardena via Sas Ciampac (Trail 2, 2A).

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park

Trailhead | Gardenaccia Chairlift Mountain Station

Cableway Ascent | Gardenaccia Chairlift, La Villa, Alta Badia

Ending Point | Corvara or Colfosco, Alta Badia

Distance | 13 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 6 hours

Difficulty | Moderate

Where to Stay in La Villa | Ciasa Agreiter (budget), Hotel La Majun (luxury), Hotel Cristallo – Wellness Mountain Living (luxury), or Hotel Ciasa Soleil (luxury)

Learn More: Rifugio Puez Day Hike

21. Sass da Ciampac

Alta Badia, Dolomites

Sass da Ciampac is the highest peak in the Cir Group, which is part of the Puez mountain range.

The hike to Sass da Ciampac is a moderate one, beginning at Passo Gardena, the mountain pass connecting the valleys of Val Gardena and Val Badia. Along the way to Sass da Ciampac, you’ll cross the Cir Peaks, drop into Val de Chedul valley, and make a counter-ascent to Forcella de Crespeina, the gateway to the Crespëina High Plateau.

The ascent to Sass da Ciampac is straightforward and rewards you with wonderful views of Val Badia, the Sella Group, and the Puez Peaks. The descent to Crespëina plateau and Lake Crespëina is more difficult, because of the scree and slippery terrain.

Start early and detour to Rifugio Puez for lunch.

Sass de Ciampac Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Passo Gardena

Distance | 14.7 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 6 hours

Difficulty | Moderate

**Where to Stay in Selva | Residence Antares (budget), Hotel Garni Morene (budget), Hotel Freina (midrange), or Linder Cycling Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Sass da Ciampac Hike

22. Rifugio Nuvolau and Cinque Torri

Cinque Torri Hike, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Dolomites

Rifugio Nuvolau is a rustic mountain refuge planted on the summit Monte Nuvolau at 2575 meters.

A few years ago, we overnighted here when we trekked the Alta Via 1 long distance trail. But, there’s no need to embark on a multi-day hike in order to visit this iconic Rifugio.

Given it’s proximity to the Cinque Torri chairlift, Rifugio Nuvolau is relatively easy to get to.

However, a more interesting approach starts at Col Gallina, near Passo Falzarego.

This short circuit trail links together some of the most popular destinations in the Averau-Nuvolau Group including Lago di Lìmedes, Rifugio Averau, Rifugio Scoiattoli, and the Cinque Torri rock towers.

Cinque Torri is also an open-air museum, where you can walk through a maze of restored trenches and shelters dating back to the First World War.

Cinque Torri Trail Stats

Where | Nuvolau-Averau Group, Belluno

Trailhead | Col Gallina

Distance | 9.6 km circuit

Time Needed | 3:45 hours

Difficulty | Moderate

Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo | Hotel Meuble Oasi (budget), Hotel Ambra Cortina D’Ampezzo (midrange), Camina Suite & Spa (luxury), Hotel de Len (luxury), or Dolomiti Lodge Alvera (luxury)

Learn More: Rifugio Nuvolau and Cinque Torri Hike

Moderately Difficult Hikes in the Dolomites

23. Lago di Sorapis Hike

Lago di Sorapis, Dolomites

Lago di Sorapis is a glacial lake in the Sorapiss Group in the province of Belluno.

Set in a natural amphitheater and ringed by forest and rock, Lago di Sorapis enchants with its milky-turquoise hue and imposing mountain backdrop.

The easiest way to get to Lake Sorapis is from the Passo Tre Croci mountain pass, located about halfway between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Lake Misurina.

From Passo Tre Croci, follow trail 215 in the direction of Rifugio Vandelli. Trail 215 is initially wide and level. After about an hour, the trail becomes increasingly steep and narrow. There are some exposed sections, secured with cables.

Shortly before arriving at the lake, you can detour to the Rifugio Vandelli mountain hut.

Most hikers will return to Passo Tre Croci along the same route. However, there’s an exciting alternative route via the Forcella Marcuoira saddle. This route is best undertaken by experienced alpine hikers, who are confident in steep rocky terrain.

Insider Tips

When to Hike | Avoid hiking to Lago di Sorapis in July and August. This is a very popular Dolomites day hike and your experience will be greatly impacted by the amount of people on this trail.

Follow the Rules | Swimming is not allowed in Lake Sorapis and camping is not allowed near Lake Sorapis.

Trail Stats

Where | Ampezzo Dolomites, Belluno

Trailhead | Passo Tre Croci, halfway between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Lake Misurina

Distance | 13.2 km circuit

Time Needed | 5:10 hours

Difficulty | Difficult

Where to Stay at Passo Tre Croci | B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina (midrange)

Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo | Hotel Meuble Oasi (budget), Hotel Ambra Cortina D’Ampezzo (midrange), Camina Suite & Spa (luxury), Hotel de Len (luxury), or Dolomiti Lodge Alvera (luxury)

Learn More: Lago di Sorapis Trail Guide

24. Tullen Summit

Günther Messner Steig, Puez-Odle Nature Park, Dolomites

Tullen (2653 m) is the highest summit in the Odle d’Eores/Aferer Geisler Group.

From the Zannes/Zans trailhead in Val di Funes, you’ll follow the lesser known Oberer Herrensteig (“Upper Men’s Trail”) and eventually the Günther Messner Steig to Tullen peak.

This is an excellent hike to do, when you’ve already hiked the Adolf Munkel Trail and you want to explore more remote and quiet trails above Val di Funes.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Zannes/Zans Car Park in Val di Funes

Distance | 12.6 km out-and-back

Time Needed | 7 hours

Difficulty | Moderately Difficult

**Where to Stay in Val di Funes | Appartements Pension Sonia (budget), Fallerhof (budget), Hotel Fines (midrange), Proihof (midrange), or Hotel Tyrol Dolomites slow living (luxury)

Trail Guide: Tullen Peak Hike

25. Alpe di Siusi – Rifugio Bolzano – Rifugio Alpe di Tires

Rifugio Alpe di Tires, Tierser Alpl hike Dolomites

Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm in German, Mont de Sëuc in Ladin) is the largest high alpine pasture in Europe. The plateau is furrowed with walking and biking paths, leading towards the Sassolungo Group, Catinaccio/Rosengarten mountains, and Sciliar/Schlern massif.

This epic circuit trail crosses the pastures of Alpe di Siusi, ascends to Rifugio Bolzano atop the Sciliar/Schlern plateau, traverses the plateau, descends to Rifugio Alpe di Tires (between the Sciliar and Catinaccio mountains), and then returns to Alpe di Siusi via Forcella Denti di Terrarossa.

Trail Stats

Where | Alpe di Siusi and Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Compaccio/Compatch, Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm

Distance | 21.6 km circuit

Time Needed | 8 hours

Difficulty | Moderately difficult because of the length

Where to Stay atop Alpe di Siusi | Hotel Seelaus (midrange), Hotel Steger-Dellai (luxury), or Alpina Dolomites (luxury)

Where to Stay in Castelrotto | Hotel Lamm (luxury), or Schgaguler Hotel (luxury)

Trail Guide: Alpe di Siusi – Rifugio Bolzano Circuit

26. Croda da Lago Circuit Trail

Croda da Lago Circuit Trail, Dolomites

Croda da Lago is a small mountain chain in the Ampezzo Dolomites.

The circuit trail around Croda da Lago is a spectacular adventure, filled with captivating scenery and varied terrain. Trail 437 begins at the Ponte di Rocurto trailhead along the SP638 road, between Pocol (Cortina d’Ampezzo) and Passo Giau.

You’ll initially ascend through forest to Lago Federa and Rifugio Croda da Lago. The trail continues to Forcella Ambrizzola saddle, the gateway to the sprawling Mondeval pasture.

Turning towards the titanic Lastoni di Formin, the path steadily ascends to Forcella di Formin, the highest point of the hike.

From the Formin saddle, the trail drops down fields of boulders to Val Formin valley and then rejoins trail 437 back to Ponte de Rocurto.

Trail Stats

Where | Ampezzo Dolomites, Belluno

Trailhead | Ponte di Rocurto

Distance | 13.1 km circuit

Time Needed | 5 hours

Difficulty | Moderately Difficult

Where to Stay in Pocol | Hotel Piccolo Pocol (budget)

Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo | Hotel Meuble Oasi (budget), Hotel Ambra Cortina D’Ampezzo (midrange), Camina Suite & Spa (luxury), Hotel de Len (luxury), or Dolomiti Lodge Alvera (luxury)

Trail Guide: Croda da Lago Circuit Trail

27. Tofana di Rozes Circuit Trail

Tofana di Rozes Circuit Hike, Dolomites

Tofana di Rozes is one of the most photographed mountains in the Ampezzo Dolomites. You can relish the views of this significant mountain in the Tofane Group from Passo Giau, Passo Falzarego, Lago Limides, Rifugio Lagazuoi, Rifugio Nuvolau, Cinque Torri and other iconic spots around Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Very few people know that there’s an excellent hiking trail that wraps around Tofana di Rozes, starting at Rifugio Dibona.

The loop cuts across the southern slopes of Tofana di Rozes, ascends effortlessly to the Forcella Col dei Bos saddle, continues towards the Travenanzes valley, and then steeply ascends the rugged Majarié glacial cirque to Rifugio Giussani.

From the Giussani hut, the Tofana di Rozes trail descends back to Rifugio Dibona along WWI paths.

Trail Stats

Where | Dolomiti D’Ampezzo Natural Park, Belluno

Trailhead | Rifugio Dibona

Distance | 11.9 km circuit

Time Needed | 5:30 hours

Difficulty | Moderately Difficult

Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo | Hotel Meuble Oasi (budget), Hotel Ambra Cortina D’Ampezzo (midrange), Camina Suite & Spa (luxury), Hotel de Len (luxury), or Dolomiti Lodge Alvera (luxury)

Trail Guide: Tofana di Rozes Circuit Trail

28. Gaisl High Trail

Gaisl High Trail, Exposed secured passage, Dolomites

The Gaisl High Trail leads across the northern slopes and cirques of the Croda Rossa d’Ampezzo/Hohe Gaisl massif in Fannes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park.

This is a beautiful point-to-point hike starting atop the Prato Piazza plateau in the Braies Dolomites.

Most of the hike is quite moderate, but there is one secured passage which may be troublesome for those that dislike exposure and narrow ledge paths.

Trail Stats

Where | Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park, South Tyrol

Starting Point | Prato Piazza Car Park

Ending Point | Ponticello

Distance | 12 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 4:10 hours

Difficulty | Moderately Difficult

**Where to Stay in Braies/Prags Valley | Garni Bergblick (budget), Moserhof Agriturismo Refugium (budget), or Farmhouse Hanslerhof (midrange)

Learn More: Gaisl High Trail

Challenging Hikes in the Dolomites

29. Torre dei Scarperi Circuit Trail

Torre dei Scarperi circuit, Sexten Dolomites

The hike around Torre dei Scarperi (Schwabenalpenkopf in German) is a stunning and interesting circuit hike in the Sesto/Sexten Dolomites.

This day hike starts in Val Campo di Dentro (Innerfeldtal in German), a side valley of Sesto/Sexten Valley. It connects Rifugio Tre Scarperi/Drei Schuster Hütte with Rifugio Locatelli/Dreizinnenhütte.

From the Antoniusstein Car Park, the trail leads to the head of Val Campo di Dentro and then ascends around the western flank of Monte Mattina/Morgenkopf to reach the narrow Passo Grande dei Rondoi saddle.

After a short secured scramble, the path crosses the grassy Schwaben Alm and wraps around the southeastern shoulder of Torre dei Scarperi/Schwabenalpenkopf.

To detour to Rifugio Locatelli, skirt the Torre di Toblin/Toblinger Noten and hug the base of Sasso di Sesto/Sextener Stein.

The descent to Val Campo di Dentro is spectacular. Though it’s long, it’s well-graded. The trail hugs the eastern flank of Monte Mattina/Morgenkopf (trail 105) and rejoins the valley trail to return to Rifugio Tre Scarperi.

Trail Stats

Where | Sexten Dolomites

Trailhead | Antoniusstein Car Park in Val Campo di Dentro

Distance | 16.7 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 6:20 hours

Difficulty | Moderately-Difficuly

**Where to Stay in Sesto | Caravan Park Sexten (budget), B&B Grüne Laterne – Lanterna Verde (budget), Hotel Royal (midrange), Bad Moos Dolomites Spa Resort (luxury)

Where to Stay in San Candido | Naturhotel Leitlhof (luxury)

Learn More: Torre dei Scarperi Circuit Trail

30. Resciesa Plateau to Seceda Ridgeline

Forcella de Mesdi, Dolomites

The Seceda ridgeline can be approached in a number of ways. The easiest way is via the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cableways. However, a more exciting route is from the Resciesa plateau.

Starting in the village of Ortisei in Val Gardena, take the Resciesa funicular up to the Resciesa plateau. From the mountain station, follow trail 35 to Malga Brogles.

As you hike across the Resciesa Alp on a pleasantly flat and easy walking path, you’re also walking towards the Odle/Geisler Peaks. The views are fantastic.

A few years ago, it was possible to ascend from Malga Brogles to Seceda via the Panascharte. However, this direct trail is closed for safety reasons due to a rockfall.

If you want to do this trail, you must ascend to Seceda via Furcela De Mesdi/Mittagsscharte. It’s a more strenuous tour, but absolutely worthwhile. Only undertake it of you’re confident hiking in scree and loose rocks.

Depending on where you’re staying in Val Gardena, you can either descend to Ortisei via Ortisei – Furnes – Seceda cableways or to Selva di Val Gardena via the Col Raiser gondola.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Resciesa Funicular Mountain Station

Cableway Ascent | Resciesa Funicular, Ortisei, Val Gardena

Cableway Descent | Seceda Cableway Mountain Station, or Col Raiser Gondola Mountain Station

Distance | 13.8 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 5:20 hours

Difficulty | Difficult

**Where to Stay in Ortisei | Appartmenthotel Residence Elvis (budget), Hotel Hell (midrange), Alpin Garden Luxury Maison & SPA – Adults Only (luxury), or Hotel Angelo Engel (luxury)

Learn More: Resciesa to Seceda Day Hike

31. Col dala Pieres Summit Hike

Col dala Pieres hiking trail, Val Gardena, Dolomites

This excellent Val Gardena hiking trail is for confident hikers who crave intoxicating views of the Sella Group, Sassolungo Group, and the Odle Peaks. The hike to Col dala Pieres summit begins with a Col Raiser cableway ascent from Selva di Val Gardena.

From the Col Raiser mountain station, follow the easy trail 4 to Rifugio Firenze/Regensburger Hütte.

From the mountain hut, descend along trail 1, for a few minutes, until you locate the 17B trail intersection, on your left. Ascend to Forcella Piza/Pizascharte along a steep and narrow, rock-laden gorge. Part of the trail is secured with wooden planks and cables.

Atop Stevia plateau, wonderful views extend in every direction. We recommend detouring to Rifugio Stevia, before backtracking and conquering Col dala Pieres. As you descend to the hut across the Stevia alpine pastures, you’ll likely share the path with grazing sheep.

After a nice break at Stevia hut, ascend to Col dala Pieres (trail 17) and then start the somewhat challenging descent to Forcella Forces de Sieles. From here, follow trail 2 back to Rifugio Firenze and then to the Col Raiser mountain station.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Col Raiser Gondola Mountain Station

Cableway Ascent/Descent | Col Raiser Gondola, Selva di Val Gardena, Val Gardena

Distance | 13.7 km circuit

Time Needed | 6 – 7 hours

Difficulty | Difficult

Where to Stay in Santa Cristina |Smart Hotel Saslong (budget), Hotel Cristallo (midrange) Charme Hotel Uridl (midrange), Dorfhotel Beludei (luxury)

Learn More: Col dala Pieres Trail Guide

32. Cima Pisciadù Summit Hike

Hiking up to Cima Pisciadù peak, Sella Group, Italian Dolomites

This is one of the best hikes in the Dolomites for experienced hikers. This point-to-point (or circuit) trail begins at Passo Gardena, the mountain pass between Val Badia and Val Gardena.

From Gardena Pass, follow the lovely balcony trail 666 to Val Setus, a steep sloping valley, filled with crumbling rocks and scree. The ascent up Val Setus to Lake Pisciadù is steep and partially secured (no equipment necessary).

At Lake Pisciadù, there’s a mountain hut, which is the only place to eat along the route.

If you feel energized, and the hike has been very manageable so far, you can continue one hour to the summit of Cima Pisciadù, for more thrilling views. This stretch entails free scrambling.

From the summit, return to the lake along the same route. The hike continues down to Val de Mezdi and ultimately back to Passo Gardena, or to Colfosco, or even further to Corvara in Alta Badia.

Trail Stats

Where | Sella Group, South Tyrol

Starting Point | Passo Gardena

Ending Point | Corvara

Distance | 12.4 km point-to-point (circuit also possible)

Time Needed | 5 hours

Difficulty | Difficult

Where to Stay in Colfosco | Pension Mirandola (budget), Crëp Sella (midrange), or Hotel Kolfuschgerhof (luxury)

Where to Stay in Corvara | Hotel Gran Fanes (midrange), Sporthotel Panorama (midrange), Hotel La Perla: The Leading Hotels of the World (luxury) or Hotel Col Alto (luxury)

Learn More: Cima Pisciadù Hiking Guide

33. Vajolet Towers

Vajolet Towers hiking trail, Dolomites

The Vajolet Towers are six summits in the Catinaccio/Rosengarten Dolomites. These majestic towers are a worthy hiking destination in the Dolomites if you’re staying in Val di Fassa, or in Val d’Ega.

We started this hike with the Paolina Chairlift in Carezza, because we were staying at Sporthotel Alpenrose. You can also shave off 2-hours of this hike, by ascending to Kölner Hütte via the Laurin II Chairlift from Nova Levante.

From the Paolina chairlift mountain station, we followed the gentle path to Kölnerhütte.

From the Kölner mountain hut, there are two ways to hike to the Vajolet towers. You can either take the hiking path via Passo delle Coronelle/Tschagerjoch or the Santner Via Ferrata route. We highly recommend the via ferrata route. It’s more interesting.

If you take the via ferrata route up, you’ll plateau at Santnerpass. The view of Gartlhütte, the mountain hut at the foot of the towers, is glorious. Descend to Kölner hütte via the Passo delle Coronelle/Tschagerjoch hiking path.

We hiked here as part of our 3-day hut-to-hut hike across the Rosengarten. You can find out more details about the Santner via ferrata ascent and the trek in our 3-day Rosengarten Trekking Guide.

Insider Tips

Via Ferrata Equipment | You can rent via ferrata equipment at the sports shop at Sporthotel Alpenrose.

When to Start | Start this hike early, to avoid guided tour groups along the Santner via ferrata.

Trail Stats

Where | Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park / Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Paolina Chairlift Mountain Station

Cableway Ascent/Descent | Paolina Chairlift, Carezza/Karersee, Val d’Ega/Eggental

Distance | 13.8 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 6-7 hours

Difficulty | Difficult

Where to Stay in Carezza | Sporthotel Passo Carezza (midrange), Moseralm Dolomiti Spa Resort (luxury)

Where to Stay in Nova Levante | Hotel B&B Pardeller (budget), Tyrol Living & Cafe (luxury)

34. Val Venegia to Rifugio Mulaz

Val Venegia, Pala Group, Dolomites in September

The Val Venegia to Rifugio Mulaz day hike is an excellent introduction to the Pale di San Martino mountain range in Trentino. It combines charming alpine pasture huts, dreamy valleys, high alpine Rifugios, scree slopes, rolling meadows, and larch forests into one divine hiking tour.

The hike begins with any easy stroll through Val Venegia to the Malga Venegiota alpine pastures. From Malga Venegiota, you’ll start the ascent to Passo Mulaz and Rifugio Mulaz.

From the Mulaz hut, the loop trail continues to Passo dei Fochet and Passo di Venegiota, showcasing some of the most varied and interesting views of the Pala Group, Civetta, and so many other mountains I can’t even begin to name.

Trail Stats

Where | Pale di San Martino Natural Park, Trentino

Trailhead | Malga Venegia, Val Venegia

Distance | 12.6 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 6:30 – 7 hours

Difficulty | Moderately Difficult – Difficult

**Where to Stay in San Martino di Castrozza | Residence Taufer (budget), Hotel Vienna (midrange), or Sayonara Nature & Wellness Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Rifugio Mulaz Circuit Hike

35. Around Pala di San Martino: Rifugio Rosetta to Rifugio Pradidali

Circuit Trail around Pala di San Martino (Trail 709), San Martino di Castrozza, Dolomites

This classic day hike wraps around Pala di San Martino, a mountain in the central Pala Group (aka Pale di San Martino) of Trentino.

With the assistance of two cableways (Col Verde and Rosetta), you’ll arrive at the Altopiano delle Pale di San Martino, a vast lunar-like karst landscape.

Descend to the Rifugio Rosetta mountain hut straight ahead (10 minutes). From here, we recommend hiking counter-clockwise around Pala di San Martino. Follow signs to Passo di Ball and Rifugio Pradidali.

This hike traverses difficult terrain, requiring surefootedness and some scrambling. There is exposure along the route.

Insider Tips

Special Equipment | This route involves a rather lengthy secured passage along an exposed ledge. Though via ferrata equipment isn’t necessary, we highly recommend climbing gloves, which make grasping steel cables more comfortable. Of course, you can bring your via ferrata kit for extra security and peace of mind.

When to Hike | You can hike this trail from late June until mid-October, weather permitting. If you’re hiking here between late September and mid-October, the cableways are only open on the weekend.

Trail Stats

Where | Pale di San Martino Natural Park, Trentino

Trailhead | Rosetta Cableway Mountain Station

Cableway Ascent/Descent | Col Verde Gondola and Rosetta Cableway, San Martino di Castrozza

Distance | 12.1 km Circuit

Time Needed | 6 hours

Difficulty | Difficult and technically demanding

**Where to Stay in San Martino di Castrozza: Residence Taufer (budget), Hotel Vienna (midrange), or Sayonara Nature & Wellness Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Rifugio Rosetta to Rifugio Pradidali Hiking Guide

36. Capanna Alpina – Rifugio Fanes – La Villa

Lech Le Vert lake near Rifugio Fanes, Dolomites

Rifugio Fanes, situated on the Alta Via 1 long-distance trail, is one of the most luxurious mountain huts in the Dolomites. A few minutes away from Rifugio Fanes, you’ll find Rifugio Lavarella, home to the highest brewery in Europe.

We’ve hiked to Rifugio Fanes three times, once along the AV1, another time from Pederü Berggasthaus (when we were staying at Excelsior in San Vigilio di Marebbe), and yet another time from the Capanna Alpina hut.

For a pleasant, not too-difficult outing, we recommend the Pederü Berggasthaus out-and-back hike.

For a challenging, full-day adventure, you can hike from Capanna Alpina hut to Rifugio Fanes and then extend the hike to Forcella de Medesc (trail 12) and ultimately down the Val de Medesc valley to La Villa in Val Badia.

The descent from the Forcella de Medesc is demanding, requiring you to skillfully hike down steep scree slopes. We were pretty exhausted by the end of the day.

Trail Stats

Where | Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, South Tyrol

Trailhead | Sciaré Bus Stop or Capanna Alpina, San Cassiano, Alta Badia

Ending Point | La Villa, Alta Badia

Distance | 20 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 8 hours

Difficulty | Demanding

Where to Stay in San Cassiano | Lagacio Hotel Mountain Residence (luxury)

Where to Stay in La Villa | Ciasa Agreiter (budget), Hotel La Majun (luxury), Hotel Cristallo – Wellness Mountain Living (luxury), or Hotel Ciasa Soleil (luxury)

Learn More: Rifugio Fanes Trail Guide

37. Cima della Vezzana Summit

Cima della Vezzana Hike, Dolomites

Cima della Vezzana is the highest mountain in the Pale di San Martino range. You can summit Cima della Vezzana in 3 hours from the Rosetta cableway mountain station.

This is the most challenging hike in our Dolomites hiking guide. It’s a taxing route, which should only be undertaken by the most experienced alpine hikers.

Trail Stats

Where | Pale di San Martino Natural Park, Trentino

Trailhead | Rosetta Cableway Mountain Station

Cableway Ascent/Descent | Col Verde Gondola and Rosetta Cableway, San Martino di Castrozza

Distance | 13.8 km out-and-back

Time Needed | 6 hours

Difficulty | Extremely Challenging. Technically demanding.

Where to Stay in San Martino di Castrozza | Residence Taufer (budget), Hotel Vienna (midrange), or Sayonara Nature & Wellness Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Cima della Vezzana Hiking Guide

Sentiero Attrezzato Hikes in the Dolomites

These hikes are semi-secured with fixed cables and other climbing aids. A Sentiero Attrezzato is something between a regular hiking trail and a via ferrata. Though in most cases a full via ferrata kit isn’t necessary, a climbing helmet is advised.

38. Gran Cir

Gran Cir, July, Dolomites

Gran Cir is a prominent peak in the Cir Group (Pizes de Cir in Ladin, Gruppo del Cir in Italian, Cirspitzen in German) within Puez-Odle Nature Park.

This popular summit is easily accessible from Passo Gardena/Grödner Joch.

From the mountain pass, it takes 1:30 hours to hike to the summit of Gran Cir.

The rewards are many. Atop Gran Cir, you’ll have deliriously beautiful views of the Sella Group, Sassoungo/Langkofel Group, Puez Group and Val de Chedul.

Gran Cir is considered an easy Sentiero Attrezzato.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park

Trailhead | Passo Gardena

Distance | 4.5 km out-and-back

Time Needed | 3 hours

Difficulty | Moderately Difficult

**Where to Stay in Selva | Residence Antares (budget), Hotel Garni Morene (budget), Hotel Freina (midrange), or Linder Cycling Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Gran Cir Trail Guide

39. Sentiero Bonacossa North Trail

Sentiero Bonacossa Trail, Cadini Group, Italy

Sentiero Alberto Bonacossa is an exhilarating hiking trail that runs through the dramatic Cadini di Misurina mountain group. This thrilling path guides hikers along narrow, exposed ledges and steep rocky valleys.

Sentiero Bonacossa connects Rifugio Col de Varda with Rifugio Fonda Savio and Rifugio Auronzo. It can be hiked in its entirety, or sectioned off in loops. We hiked the northern route (Rifugio Fonda Savio to Rifugio Auronzo).

One of the most popular destinations along the Sentiero Bonacossa trail is the famous Cadini di Misurina viewpoint.

Trail Stats

Where | Cadini di Misurina Group, Belluno

Trailhead | Rifugio Auronzo or Lago d’Antorno

Distance | 12.5 km circuit

Time Needed | 6 hours

Difficulty | Demanding

Where to Stay at Lake Antorno | Albergo Chalet Lago Antorno (budget-midrange)

Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo | Hotel Meuble Oasi (budget), Hotel Ambra Cortina D’Ampezzo (midrange), Camina Suite & Spa (luxury), Hotel de Len (luxury), or Dolomiti Lodge Alvera (luxury)

Trail Guide: Sentiero Bonacossa North Trail

40. Piz Duleda

Sentiero Attrezzato Piz Duledes, Dolomites

Piz Duleda (2909 m) is a peak in the Odle Group and an adventurous hiking destination in Val Gardena.

This summit hike starts at the Col Raiser Gondola mountain station.

The trail leads up the lonesome Val dla Roa valley to Furcela Dla Roa/Roa Scharte saddle and climbs up the Sentiero Attrezzato Piz Duledes (protected trail / Grade A) to Furcela Nives saddle.

From Furcela Nives, it’s a straightforward ascent to Piz Duleda.

The trail continues, along crumbling rock towers, to Furcela Forces de Sieles (merging with the Col dala Pieres descending path) and drops down the scree-filled Forces de Sieles gully.

With views of the sawtoothed Odle peaks, the path eases and returns to Rifugio Firenze.

Trail Stats

Where | Puez-Odle Nature Park

Trailhead | Col Raiser gondola mountain station

Distance | 12.4 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 5 hours

Difficulty | Difficult

**Where to Stay in Selva | Residence Antares (budget), Hotel Garni Morene (budget), Hotel Freina (midrange), or Linder Cycling Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Piz Duleda

Hiking Season

The best time to hike in the Dolomites is from mid June until the end of September. During that time frame, trails are mostly clear of snow, Rifugios (mountain huts) are open, and cableways are operating.

Read Best Time to Visit the Dolomites for an overview on the pros and cons of hiking in the Dolomites in May, June, July, August, September, October and November.

October may still be promising, but many rifugios (mountain huts) and cableways will already be closed. However, October is a great time to visit, when you relish solitude and fall colors. Here’s our essential guide to hiking in the Dolomites in October.

Hiking Difficulty

Depending on what hikes you undertake, hiking in the Dolomites can either be very easy or extremely challenging.

There are many easy valley and plateau walks across the Dolomites, with very little elevation gain/loss and no technical difficulty.

If you’re not familiar with typical dolomite-limestone terrain, hiking in the Dolomites may prove to be more challenging. Many trails are uneven and rugged and require surefootedness. Hiking poles are extremely helpful in navigating loose, uneven terrain.

Hiking in high-alpine areas may entail traversing scree (loose rocks) and karst pavement, scrambling, and walking along exposed paths, which are secured with cables.

Some hikes in the Dolomites are called “Sentiero attrezzato,” which is something between a hiking trail and a via ferrata. These trails are very difficult and require a head for heights and comfort with exposure.

More Dolomites Guides

Region-Specific:

Hut to Hut Hiking:

Via Ferrata:

Dolomites Travel:

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Best Hikes in the Dolomites, Northern Italy

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