Cross off a must-see bucket list destination adventuring through the Dolomites in northern Italy! This region offers turquoise lakes like Lago di Braies and Lago di Sorapis, iconic peaks at Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Seceda Ridge, and some of Europe’s most breathtaking trails.
I spent a week hiking every day through some of the best trails in the Dolomites and compiled a guide for you to reference as inspiration when planning your trip. This guide is perfect for any traveler looking for hiking ideas, travel inspiration, or if you only have a short amount of time to explore the region. I will also be uploading my Google Pin map to make your journey even easier, so you already have everything saved.
Pro Tip: Show up earlier than you think to every location on this guide, ESPECIALLY in peak summer travel months.
Table of Contents
1. Lago di Braies
Lago di Braies is arguably the most iconic lake in the Dolomites, and maybe all of Italy. It is known for its turquoise-green waters, towering mountain backdrop, and peaceful wooden boats. This lake offers a leisurely 3.5 km hike around its perimeter (about 2 miles) with further opportunities to explore it by row boat. Early morning or late evening visits are recommended to avoid crowds and capture the perfect Instagram worthy photo.
If you are driving your own car you are going to want to park as far as you can from the lake, as parking gets increasingly expensive the closer you get, upwards of $40 USD. Even if you are visiting on a shoulder season expect to see many people and nowhere to park. There is a town you can park in for relatively cheap 2km away or you can bite the bullet and drop some extra cash.
Tips:
- Trail difficulty: Easy
- Don’t miss: Renting a rowboat to explore the lake from the water.
- Expect to pay for parking and lots of people.
2. Lago di Sorapis
The hike to Lago di Sorapis is a moderate adventure known for its striking blue waters and dramatic cliff surroundings. Starting from Passo Tre Croci, the trail takes about 3-4 hours roundtrip. The steep sections can be challenging, but the reward is a surreal alpine lake that looks almost unreal.
Be careful because later in the season, this lake tends to dry up. So check conditions on Instagram and Google reviews to ensure there is still water before you make the drive and hike to it.
Tips:
- Trail difficulty: Moderate
- Gear: Good hiking boots and plenty of water.
3. Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most famous hikes in the Dolomites and a must have on your itinerary. The loop trail around the three iconic peaks offers panoramic views of rugged cliffs and alpine valleys. This hike is perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
To access the start of the loop hike you can leave your car at the bottom of the mountain and hike the trail to the top. This will add about an hour to your day. You can alternatively drive the road to the top after paying $35 euros to enter the pass. Once you get to the top you can explore the Refugio, grab a coffee, or begin the loop hike.
The loop travels around the backside of the peaks where there is less people and a much more serene atmosphere. There is another Refugio at the halfway point you can stop at if visiting during the peak season.
Once you are done I suggest taking the trail across the ridge to the right of the parking lot to a “secret-not so secret” lookout into the adjacent valley. The Cadini Di Misurina lookout extends over a peninsula hanging over the valley. This short 15 minute add-on is well worth the pictures.
Pro Tip: If the lookout is CROWDED, walk around the corner to an equally as good spot without people on it.
Tips:
- Trail difficulty: Moderate, Difficult from the base.
- Must-see spots: Rifugio Auronzo, Rifugio Locatelli, and Cadini Di Misurina for breathtaking viewpoints.
4. Seceda Ridge
If you only do one thing while visiting the Dolomites, DO THIS! Seceda Ridge offers dramatic ridgeline views and is perfect for those seeking a mix of hiking and awe inspiring scenery. The hike can start from the base town of Ortisei or take a cable car to the top to save time. Once at the top, the rolling alpine meadows meet jagged peaks, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. This is probably the most famous view in the Dolomites, and for good reason.
I was absolutely blown away when I got to the top of this ridge. It is one of the coolest places I have ever traveled although there is a few things you should know.
- The Cable Car is Expensive
- Expect to pay $50 euros roundtrip!!
- What I suggest is buying the one way ticket up, and hiking down.
- Also be aware the cable car stops running at 17:00 and you need to be on that final car coming down the mountain.
- Expect Insane Crowds
- This is one of the most popular destinations in the Dolomites. The cable car and top of the ridge will be crowded with people, even in the off season. Start early with that in mind.
- Too Many Hikes
- There are countless hikes at the top and you could spend an entire week up there. Pick what you really want to do and budget your time wisely. The hike down from the ridge into town is equally as mesmerizing.
Pro Tip: In recent seasons a resident at the top has been scamming tourists into paying money for photos on the ridge, and access to certain trails. DO NOT FALL FOR IT – This person does not have the right to do that and you should not have to pay for anything at the top besides concessions.
Tips:
- Trail difficulty: Moderate to hard depending on route.
- Highlight: Sunrise or sunset for the best lighting.
5. Geisler Alm Meadow
The Geisler Alm hike is a peaceful walk through lush alpine meadows surrounded by the Geisler group peaks. Ideal for families or those seeking a less strenuous adventure, this trail is dotted with traditional mountain Refugio’s where you can enjoy local cuisine. Drive to where the road ends and finish hiking into the meadow. You can connect via Seceda Ridge if you have energy and adventure time saved for the day.
6. Alpe di Siusi – Seiser Alm
Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest alpine meadow, is a must-visit. Hikers can enjoy gentle rolling trails, panoramic views of the Dolomites, and wildflower-filled landscapes. It’s perfect for photographers and those looking for a more relaxed hiking experience.
DO NOT MAKE THE $150 EURO MISTAKE I MADE!!!
Access to the meadow can be done by car or by gondola, however driving by car is only allowed before 8am. You must enter the base road before that time or you will get a $150 euro fine. Do not think there will be a spot to turn around before you reach the cameras at the entrance to the road because there is not and you will be forced to enter if you get that far. There is also a paid parking lot at the top.
All of the towns on this side of the valley are worth exploring. I found some of the best food I ate on my entire trip here.
7. Puez-Odle Nature Park
For more adventures, the Puez-Odle Nature Park offers dramatic limestone formations, deep valleys, and high-altitude trails. The Adolf Munkel Trail is particularly popular for its stunning views of the Odle peaks. This park is similar to Seceda as there are too many trails to count.
Tips:
- Must-see: The panoramic vistas at the Puez Refuge
Essential Tips for Hiking in the Dolomites
- Best time to visit: Peak season is June–September, or visit with less people in the shoulder season during early spring or late fall.
- Gear: Sturdy hiking boots, layers, sun protection, cramp-ons for winter hiking, and trekking poles for steep trails.
- Accommodations: Expect to pay steep prices generally all over the Dolomites, unless you are willing to drive 30 minutes to 1 hour to the start of the valleys. Consider staying in a Refugio for an authentic alpine experience, especially in alpine meadow regions like Alpe di Suisi.
- Safety: Check weather conditions before starting; mountain weather can change rapidly so be prepared. Expect snow at the summits if hiking later in the season.
Final Thoughts
Hiking in the Dolomites is an unforgettable experience and one I recommend to any traveler. Every single hike you do in these mountains will leave you breathless, and there were many times where I sat for hours just watching the clouds float by. Whether you’re chasing sunrise over alpine meadows or capturing dramatic cliff views, the Dolomites are a paradise for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Keywords:
- Dolomites hiking trails
- Best hikes in Dolomites
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike
- Lago di Braies hike
- Lago di Sorapis trail
- Seceda Ridge hike
- Geisler Alm meadow hike
- Dolomites travel guide
- Hiking in Northern Italy
- Alpine hiking destinations
Leave a comment