Best Hiking Trails in Dolomites – The Dolomites, also known as the “Pale Mountains,” are a breathtakingly beautiful mountain range located in northeastern Italy. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers some of the best hiking experiences in the world, with stunning landscapes and breathtaking views. The Dolomites are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike, with a variety of hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience and fitness.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the Dolomites have something for everyone. From easy walks to challenging ascents, there are countless trails to explore. Each hike offers its own unique perspective on the stunning scenery, from panoramic views of the jagged peaks to peaceful alpine meadows filled with wildflowers.
The Dolomites are home to some of the most iconic hikes in the world, including the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop, the Seceda Ridge Trail, and the Alta Via 1. Each of these hikes offers a different experience, from high alpine adventures to scenic walks through picturesque valleys.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best hikes in the Dolomites, highlighting the unique features and experiences of each trail. We’ll cover a range of hikes that are suitable for different fitness levels and preferences, so whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging ascent, there’s sure to be a hike that’s perfect for you. So, let’s get started and explore the best hikes in the Dolomites!
15 Spectacular Hikes In The Dolomites – The Best Dolomites Hiking Guide
Here are some of the best hiking destinations in this stunning mountain range.
1. Tofana di Mezzo
| Distance: 0.3 km (0.2 miles) | Difficulty: Easy |
| Total Ascent: 55 meters (180 feet) | Time: 30 minutes |
| Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo |
The Tofana di Mezzo is a popular hiking destination located in the heart of the Dolomites. This hike takes you up to the summit of the Tofana di Mezzo, which is the second-highest peak in the Tofana group. The hike is a challenging ascent that takes around 4-5 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level.
The trail begins at the Rifugio Dibona, which is a popular starting point for many hikes in the Dolomites. From there, you will follow a steep and rocky trail up the mountainside. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, but the ascent is quite strenuous and requires a good level of fitness.
As you ascend, you will be rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You will also pass by several alpine huts and refuges, where you can stop for a rest and enjoy some local food and drink.
The final stretch of the hike is the most challenging, as you will be navigating steep and rocky terrain to reach the summit of Tofana di Mezzo. However, the views from the top are truly breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the Dolomites stretching out in every direction.
Overall, the hike to Tofana di Mezzo is a must-do for any serious hiker visiting the Dolomites. It offers a challenging but rewarding ascent, with some of the most spectacular views in the region. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the hike is quite demanding.
2. Seceda Hike
| Distance: 1.3 km (0.8 miles) loop | Difficulty: Easy |
| Total Ascent: 110 meters (360 feet) | Time: 30 to 45 minutes |
| Location: Val Gardena |
Seceda is a popular hiking destination in the Dolomites that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The hike up to Seceda is considered to be one of the most beautiful hikes in the region, taking you through lush meadows, pastures, and forests.
The trail begins at the Seceda cable car station, which you can reach by taking the cable car from the town of Ortisei. From there, you will follow a well-marked trail that winds its way up the mountain. The first part of the trail takes you through a beautiful alpine forest, with views of the surrounding valleys and mountains peeking through the trees.
As you climb higher, the trail opens up into vast meadows and pastures, with wildflowers and alpine plants dotting the landscape. The views of the Dolomites from this vantage point are simply breathtaking, with rugged peaks and valleys stretching out as far as the eye can see.
At the top of Seceda, you will find a stunning panoramic view that is worth the effort of the hike. From here, you can see some of the most iconic peaks in the Dolomites, including the Sassolungo, the Marmolada, and the Sella group.
Overall, the hike up to Seceda is a must-do for any hiker visiting the Dolomites. It is a challenging but rewarding hike that offers some of the most stunning views in the region. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the hike is quite demanding.
3. Cinque Torri Hike
Distance: 1.9 km (1.2 mile) loop
Difficulty: Easy
Total Ascent: 130 meters (430 feet)
Time: 1 hour
Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cinque Torri is a spectacular hiking destination located in the heart of the Dolomites. This hike takes you through a dramatic landscape of towering rock formations, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The trail starts at the Rifugio Scoiattoli and winds its way through a stunning alpine landscape. As you hike, you will be surrounded by towering rock formations that are a popular destination for rock climbers. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, with only a few steep sections that require some scrambling.
As you continue along the trail, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the Tofane, the Marmolada, and the Civetta. You will also pass by several alpine huts and refuges, where you can stop for a rest and enjoy some local food and drink.
One of the highlights of the Cinque Torri hike is the opportunity to explore the historic World War I trenches and fortifications that are located in the area. These trenches were built by the Italian and Austrian armies during the First World War and have been preserved as a memorial to the soldiers who fought and died here.
The hike ends at the Cinque Torri mountain hut, where you can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Overall, the Cinque Torri hike is a must-do for any hiker visiting the Dolomites, offering a unique and unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world.
4. Cadini di Misurina Hike
Distance: 3.2 km (2 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Total Ascent: 210 meters (690 feet)
Time: 1 to 2 hours
Location: Near the Tre Cime Naturepark and Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cadini di Misurina is a stunning hiking destination in the Dolomites that offers incredible views of glaciers, lakes, and rugged peaks. The trail starts at the Misurina Lake and takes you through a beautiful alpine landscape.
As you hike, you will be surrounded by towering mountains and lush alpine meadows, with views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks in the distance. The trail is relatively easy to follow, with only a few steep sections that require some scrambling.
One of the highlights of the Cadini di Misurina hike is the opportunity to explore the beautiful Lago di Sorapiss. This stunning lake is surrounded by towering mountains and offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape. You can stop here to rest and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Another highlight of the hike is the chance to see the stunning Tre Cime di Lavaredo, which are three towering peaks that are one of the most iconic landmarks in the Dolomites. The view of these peaks from the Cadini di Misurina trail is simply unforgettable.
The trail also passes by several alpine huts and refuges, where you can stop for a rest and enjoy some local food and drink. The Rifugio Auronzo is a popular stop on the trail, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Overall, the Cadini di Misurina hike is a must-do for any hiker visiting the Dolomites. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the hike is quite demanding.
5. Lago di Braies Hike
Distance: 3.7 km (2.3 miles) loop
Difficulty: Easy
Total Ascent: 100 meters (330 feet)
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Fanes-Sennes-Brais Nature Park, South Tyrol
Lago di Braies, also known as Pragser Wildsee, is a stunning lake located in the heart of the Dolomites. This hike takes you around the beautiful lake, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The trail around the lake is relatively easy and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. As you hike, you will be surrounded by lush forests, alpine meadows, and towering mountains, with views of the crystal-clear lake in the distance.
One of the highlights of the Lago di Braies hike is the opportunity to explore the beautiful shores of the lake. You can stop to rest and take in the breathtaking scenery or even rent a boat and paddle across the lake to see the beautiful mountain scenery from a different perspective.
The lake is also surrounded by several alpine huts and refuges, where you can stop for a rest and enjoy some local food and drink. The Rifugio Biella is a popular stop on the trail, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Overall, the Lago di Braies hike is a must-do for any hiker visiting the Dolomites. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the hike can take several hours.
6. Lagazuoi to Falzarego Pass Hike
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Total Descent: 650 meters (2,100 feet)
Time: 3 hours
Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo
The Lagazuoi to Falzarego Pass hike is a stunning and challenging trek that takes you to the top of Lagazuoi, one of the most impressive peaks in the Dolomites. Along the way, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The hike begins at the Falzarego Pass, which is easily accessible by car or public transportation. From there, you will ascend to the top of Lagazuoi, which stands at an elevation of 2,778 meters (9,114 feet). The ascent is challenging but manageable for experienced hikers, and the trail is well-marked and easy to follow.
As you climb, you will be surrounded by rugged peaks and alpine meadows, with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges. You will also have the opportunity to explore the impressive tunnels and trenches that were used during World War I, which are now open to hikers and offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region.
Once you reach the top of Lagazuoi, you will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites, including the iconic peaks of the Tofana di Rozes and the Marmolada. The summit is also home to a mountain hut, where you can stop for a rest and enjoy some local food and drink.
After taking in the views from the top, you can descend back down to the Falzarego Pass, following a different trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The descent is slightly easier than the ascent, but still requires some care and attention, especially in rocky and steep sections.
Overall, the Lagazuoi to Falzarego Pass hike is a challenging but unforgettable experience that offers a unique perspective on the stunning beauty of the Dolomites. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the hike can take several hours and the weather can be unpredictable at high elevations.
7. Rifugio Averau & Rifugio Nuvolau Hike
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Total Ascent: 335 meters (1,100 feet)
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours + additional time at the rifugios
Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo
The Rifugio Averau and Rifugio Nuvolau hike is a beautiful trek that takes you to two mountain huts located in the heart of the Dolomites. The hike offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of this unique region.
The hike begins at the Passo Falzarego, a mountain pass that is easily accessible by car or public transportation. From there, you will follow a well-marked trail that takes you up to the Rifugio Averau, which sits at an elevation of 2,413 meters (7,917 feet). The trail is moderately challenging and takes you through stunning alpine meadows, with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Once you reach the Rifugio Averau, you can take a break and enjoy some local food and drink while taking in the stunning panoramic views. From there, you will continue along the trail to the Rifugio Nuvolau, which sits at an elevation of 2,575 meters (8,448 feet). The trail to the Rifugio Nuvolau is slightly more challenging, but still manageable for experienced hikers.
At the Rifugio Nuvolau, you will be treated to even more breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. You can also explore the nearby rocky outcroppings, which offer even more stunning views and photo opportunities.
After taking in the views from the Rifugio Nuvolau, you can either return to the Passo Falzarego along the same trail or take a different trail that offers a slightly different perspective on the surrounding peaks and valleys. Either way, the hike is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of the Dolomites and to enjoy some local food and drink in the cozy mountain huts along the way.
Just be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the hike can take several hours and the weather can be unpredictable at high elevations.
8. Piz Boè Hike
Distance: 5.3 km (3.3 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Ascent: 430 meters (1,410 feet)
Time: 2 to 4 hours
Location: Val Gardena
The Piz Boè hike is a challenging and rewarding trek that takes you up to the highest peak in the Sella Group, located in the heart of the Dolomites. The peak stands at an elevation of 3,152 meters (10,341 feet) and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The hike begins at the Passo Pordoi, a mountain pass that can be reached by car or public transportation. From there, you will follow a well-marked trail that takes you up to the peak of Piz Boè. The trail is challenging, with steep inclines and rocky terrain, but the stunning views along the way make it well worth the effort.
As you climb higher, you will pass through beautiful alpine meadows and rugged rock formations, with views of the surrounding peaks and valleys getting more and more impressive. Once you reach the summit of Piz Boè, you will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Sella Group, as well as other nearby mountain ranges.
From the summit, you can take a break and enjoy the stunning views while refueling with some snacks and water. You can also explore the nearby rocky outcroppings and take in even more stunning views from different angles.
After taking in the views from the summit, you can either return to the Passo Pordoi along the same trail or take a different trail that offers a slightly different perspective on the surrounding peaks and valleys. Either way, the hike is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of the Dolomites and to challenge yourself with a rewarding trek to the highest peak in the Sella Group.
Just be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the hike can take several hours and the weather can be unpredictable at high elevations.
9. Cinque Torri + Rifugios Averau & Nuvolau Hike
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Total Ascent: 465 meters (1,530 feet)
Time: 2.5 to 3 hours + additional time at the rifugios
Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo
The Cinque Torri and Rifugios Averau & Nuvolau hike is a wonderful trek that takes you through the dramatic landscape of the Cinque Torri rock formations, with stops at two mountain huts for refreshments and stunning views.
The hike begins at the Cinque Torri parking lot, which can be reached by car or public transportation. From there, you will follow a well-marked trail that takes you through a stunning alpine landscape of towering rock formations, with views of the surrounding peaks and valleys that are simply breathtaking.
As you make your way through the Cinque Torri, you will have the opportunity to explore the unique rock formations up close and take in the incredible views from various angles. The rock formations are a sight to behold and are a popular destination for rock climbers from around the world.
After exploring the Cinque Torri, you will continue on to the Rifugio Averau, a mountain hut that offers refreshments and stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The hut is a wonderful place to take a break and recharge before continuing on to the next stop.
From Rifugio Averau, you will continue on to the Rifugio Nuvolau, another mountain hut that offers refreshments and even more incredible views. The hut is perched on a rocky outcropping and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys that are simply stunning.
After taking in the views from Rifugio Nuvolau, you can either return to the Cinque Torri parking lot along the same trail or take a different trail that offers a slightly different perspective on the surrounding peaks and valleys. Either way, the hike is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of the Dolomites and to enjoy the unique and dramatic landscape of the Cinque Torri rock formations.
Just be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the hike can take several hours and the weather can be unpredictable at high elevations.
10. Alpe di Siusi Hike
Distance: 6.8 km (4.2 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Total Descent: 260 meters (850 feet)
Time: 2 to 3 hours + additional time at the rifugios
Location: Alpe di Suisi
The Alpe di Siusi hike is a scenic and enjoyable trek that takes you through the largest high-altitude meadow in Europe, with incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
The hike begins at the cable car station in the village of Ortisei, which can be reached by car or public transportation. From there, you will take a cable car up to the Alpe di Siusi plateau, where the hike begins.
As you start the hike, you will be greeted by the stunning natural beauty of the high-altitude meadow, with its rolling hills, wildflowers, and majestic mountain peaks in the distance. The Alpe di Siusi is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including rare alpine plants, marmots, and mountain goats.
The trail winds its way through the meadow, passing by traditional mountain huts and offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The Dolomites, with their towering peaks and rugged terrain, are particularly impressive from this vantage point.
The hike is suitable for hikers of all levels, as the trail is well-maintained and relatively flat. You can choose to take a shorter or longer route, depending on your preferences and fitness level. Along the way, there are several rest stops and mountain huts where you can take a break, enjoy some refreshments, and take in the breathtaking views.
Overall, the Alpe di Siusi hike is a must-do experience for anyone visiting the Dolomites. The beauty and serenity of the high-altitude meadow, combined with the dramatic mountain scenery, make for an unforgettable hiking experience. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the weather can be unpredictable at high elevations.
11. Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike
Distance: 8.8 km (5.5 miles) loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Ascent: 425 meters (1,400 feet)
Time: 2.5 to 5 hours
Location: Near Cortina d’Ampezzo
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is a challenging and rewarding trek that takes you to the iconic three peaks of the Dolomites, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The hike begins at the Rifugio Auronzo, which can be reached by car or public transportation. From there, you will start the trek up the mountain, following a well-marked trail that winds its way through the rugged terrain.
As you make your way up the mountain, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The rugged peaks of the Dolomites tower above you, and the lush alpine meadows and forests stretch out below.
The trail is steep and challenging, with some sections requiring scrambling and careful footwork. However, the stunning scenery and sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the summit of the three peaks make it all worthwhile.
Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The three peaks themselves are an impressive sight, with their sharp, jagged edges and towering height.
The hike can take several hours, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to take in the scenery. It’s important to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the weather can be unpredictable at high elevations.
Overall, the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is a must-do experience for any serious hiker visiting the Dolomites. The combination of challenging terrain, stunning scenery, and iconic peaks makes for an unforgettable hiking experience. Just be sure to come prepared and take your time, so you can fully appreciate the beauty of this amazing landscape.
12. Adolf Munkel Weg to Geisler Alm Hike
Distance: 9.2 km (5.7 miles) loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Ascent: 440 meters (1,445 feet)
Time: 4 to 6 hours (this includes time at the mountain huts)
Location: Val di Funes
The Adolf Munkel Weg to Geisler Alm hike is a beautiful and challenging trek that takes you through a stunning alpine landscape, with breathtaking views of rugged peaks and deep valleys.
The hike starts at the Adolf Munkel Weg trailhead, which can be reached by car or public transportation. From there, you will start the trek up the mountain, following a well-marked trail that winds its way through the beautiful alpine landscape.
As you make your way up the mountain, you will be treated to incredible views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The towering peaks of the Geisler range dominate the skyline, while deep valleys and lush alpine meadows stretch out below.
The trail is steep and challenging in parts, with some sections requiring careful footwork and scrambling. However, the stunning scenery and sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the summit make it all worthwhile.
Once you reach the Geisler Alm mountain hut, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain hut itself is a beautiful and rustic building, with a cozy interior and plenty of delicious food and drinks to refuel you for the rest of your hike.
The hike can take several hours, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to take in the scenery. It’s important to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, as the weather can be unpredictable at high elevations.
Overall, the Adolf Munkel Weg to Geisler Alm hike is a must-do experience for any serious hiker visiting the Dolomites. The combination of challenging terrain, stunning scenery, and beautiful mountain huts makes for an unforgettable hiking experience. Just be sure to come prepared and take your time, so you can fully appreciate the beauty of this amazing landscape.
13. Lago di Sorapis Hike
Distance: 11.6 to 12.7 km (7.2 to 7.9 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Total Ascent: 460 meters (1,520 feet) to 775 meters (2,550 feet)
Time: 3 to 7 hours
Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo
The hike to Lago di Sorapis takes you through the beautiful Dolomites landscape, with the reward of the stunning turquoise lake at the end. The hike is approximately 12km round trip and has an elevation gain of around 500 meters. The trail takes you through dense forests, rocky terrain, and over wooden bridges before reaching the lake.
The turquoise waters of Lago di Sorapis are absolutely mesmerizing, and provide a perfect spot for a picnic or a rest break. The reflections of the surrounding mountains on the lake’s surface are truly breathtaking. The lake sits at the foot of the Sorapis mountain range, which offers a stunning backdrop to the already-beautiful scenery.
This hike is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy a good challenge, as the terrain can be steep and rocky at times. It’s also recommended to bring proper hiking gear, as the weather in the Dolomites can change quickly, and the trail can be slippery at times.
Overall, the hike to Lago di Sorapis is a must-do for any hiker visiting the Dolomites, and the views at the end are well worth the effort.
14. Croda da Lago Circuit & Lago Federa Hike
Distance: 12.8 km (8 miles) loop
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Total Ascent: 900 meters (2,950 feet)
Time: 4.5 to 6 hours
Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo
The Croda da Lago Circuit & Lago Federa Hike is a beautiful and challenging hike that takes you through the stunning alpine landscape of the Dolomites. This circular trail is approximately 15km long and has an elevation gain of around 900 meters.
The hike starts at the Passo Giau, and takes you through lush green meadows, dense forests, and over rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll have incredible views of the surrounding mountains, including the famous Croda da Lago peak.
One of the highlights of the hike is the beautiful Lago Federa, a serene alpine lake nestled among the mountains. The crystal clear waters of the lake reflect the stunning scenery around it, making it a great spot for photos or a peaceful rest break.
As you continue on the trail, you’ll pass through the Forcella Ambrizzola, which offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The trail then descends back down towards Passo Giau, with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests.
This hike is perfect for those who love a good challenge and are experienced, hikers. The terrain can be steep and rocky at times, so it’s recommended to wear proper hiking gear and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Overall, the Croda da Lago Circuit & Lago Federa Hike is a must-do for any hiker visiting the Dolomites, and the stunning scenery and challenging terrain make it an unforgettable experience.
15. Puez-Odle Altopiano Hike
Distance: 17 km (10.6 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Total Ascent: 850 meters (2,800 feet)
Time: 6 to 9 hours
Location: Val Gardena
The Puez-Odle Altopiano hike is a beautiful and challenging trek that takes you through some of the most stunning alpine landscapes in the Dolomites. The hike starts in the charming town of Santa Cristina and takes you up to the Puez-Odle Nature Park, where you’ll be surrounded by dramatic peaks, crystal-clear streams, and lush forests.
The hike is a loop that can take around 6-8 hours, depending on your pace and stops. Along the way, you’ll pass through several picturesque alpine huts where you can stop for refreshments and take in the stunning views. One of the highlights of the hike is the climb up to the Odle peaks, which offer incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The terrain of the Puez-Odle Altopiano hike can be quite challenging, with steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and exposed ridges. However, the stunning scenery and breathtaking views make the effort worthwhile. Make sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking boots, and be prepared for a challenging but rewarding adventure in the heart of the Dolomites.