Tre Cime – The Dolomiti park I get asked most frequently about. People flock from all corners of the globe to see the 3 grand monoliths – the most famous feature of the park.
Although the Three Peaks are spectacular, What most people don’t realize is that there are other mountains in the park, that are even more dramatic: Croda Dei Toni, Tre Scarperi, or Cadini di Misurina, just to name a few.
This 4-day / 3-night north-to-south Tre Cime traverse will not only give you the opportunity to see them all but also tackle several fantastic via ferratas along the way.
Best time of the year to do the Tre Cime traverse
The Tre Cime traverse is achievable between mid-June and the third week of September. Don’t forget that being in the mountains means you can expect snowfall even in the height of summer. Some of the snowy pictures that you will see in the post were featured in this post at the end of August.
An interactive map of the Tre Cime traverse
Although this map is pretty accurate and will help you visualize and plan your route, it should not be used to navigate in the mountains.
The Sesto region of the Dolomites (which contains Tre Cime Nature Park) is detailed in Tabacco Map No. 10. I strongly suggest you purchase it and highlight the route on the map following the suggestions from my article.
Where does the Tre Cime Traverse start?
The trailhead lies in the North part of the Tre Cime National Park in the Fiscalina Valley, right near Hotel Dolomitenhof. It’s the same trailhead as the Croda Fiscalina Circuit day hike.
The biggest towns nearby are either Moos/Moso (a 5-minute drive), Sesto/Sexten (an 8-minute drive away), or San Candido/Innichen (a 15-minute drive away). If you want to make an early start then I recommend splurging on the fancy Hotel Dolomitenhof before 3 less luxurious nights in the high alpine huts.
How to get to San Candido, Sesto or Moos
San Candido is a 2-hour train ride (or car ride) away from Bolzano (Bozen), the nearest city. Sesto is a 12-minute bus ride away from San Candido and Moos is a further 5 minutes away.
If you are coming from overseas you can fly to Venice airport, take a shuttle to Cortina D’Ampezzo then a public bus to one of the above-mentioned towns.
You can also fly to Innsbruck in Austria (ca. 3 hours away) or Munich in Germany (ca. 5 hours away by public transport).
Where to stay the night before the traverse
How to get to the trailhead
By Bus
The bus stop at the trailhead is called Moso (Sesto) Pian Di Val Fiscalina. To check for bus schedules go to the Sued Tirol Mobil website. It’s an excellent tool for figuring out public transport in the Italian Dolomites.
Type in your departure and arrival stop. You can find a bus stop near your hotel using the map provided on the site.
For example: To figure out a bus from San Candido/Inninchen train station type in Innichen, Bahnhof Innichen and Moso (Sesto), Pian di Val Fiscalina. You will have to take bus no. 446 and then 440. They travel at 30-minute intervals and the journey takes 27 minutes.
By Car
There is an ample parking lot next to the Dolomitenhof Hotel where you can park your car overnight. The cost is 8 Euro/day and you will need cash to pay for it. Sorry, no campervans!
This traverse does not end in the same spot where it begins, but you can use public transport to get back to the start. If you need to rent a car when visiting Italy try Discover Cars. If you book through their site I receive a small commission at no cost to you.
TIP: I always prefer to do the relocation before I begin the hike. If you are coming with a car then park near Lago Antorno, where this backpacking trip ends then catch the bus to the trailhead. That way your car will be waiting for you when you finish the traverse.
Tre Cime National Park traverse: day-by-day breakdown
Day 1: Val Fiscalina to Rifugio Pian di Cengia via Rifugio Zsigmondy Comici
- Distance: 8.9 km / 5.5 mi
- Walking time: 3-4 h
- Elevation gain: ca. 1000 m / 3280 ft
- Path numbers: 102, 103, 101
As the first days go it doesn’t get much easier than this, only a mere 1100m of elevation gain. I hope you get my sarcasm. The first day starts with an easy stroll through the Fiscalina Valley. Head south on path no. 102 from hotel Dolomitenhof. It’s a wide-access road that hugs the side of many large fields.
After further twenty minutes of continually touching the old river bed, the route gets to the Talschlusshuette, the first refuge along the way.
The route then swings past the hut and turns onto path no. 103. You may have noticed some switchbacks earlier on the mountain in front of you, that’s where you’re heading. These switchbacks, which have intermittent protection from the sun, will help you gain most of the elevation of the day.
As you go higher the views back north into the valley become increasingly better. If you need an excuse to take a rest, a photography break will make for one.
Eventually, you’ll round a corner and see, for the first time, the unobstructed view of Croda Dei Toni (Zwölferkofel in German). Zwölf in German means 12 so as you can probably guess by now, the mountain is called Zwölferkofel because it has 12 separate peaks, much like the Dreizinnen (Tre Cime) which has 3 distinct peaks (Drei in German means three).
German and Italian are the official languages of the Dolomites and you will often see signs around here in both languages.
After around 2 – 3 hours you will gain over 700m and be on the doorstep of Rifugio Zsigmondy Comici. This is a great stop to grab lunch or coffee and cake and enjoy it on the terrace of the hut with unobstructed views of the Zwölferkofel.
After the break continue uphill on path no. 101 for approx. another hour until you reach Rifugio Pian di Cengia (Büllelejochhütte). Your first night accommodation on this epic Tre Cime National Park traverse.
Day 1 – Alternative route: Via ferrata Strada Degli Alpini
- Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi*
- Walking time: 5-6 h*
- Elevation gain: 900 m / 2950 ft*
- Elevation loss: 300 m / 984 ft*
- Via ferrata level: beginner
- Path numbers: 100, 124, 101, 103
A high alpine route that runs parallel to the one described above is the beginner via ferrata Strada Degli Alpini. The link takes you to my other article describing the route in reverse.
This is an alternative approach to Rifugio Pian Di Cengia with even more scenic views and not to mention a great warm-up to the upcoming via ferratas.
It starts at the top of the Croda Rossa Chairlift near Rifugios Rudi and Prati di Croda Rossa. Head away from the two huts on path no. 100 until you reach the Valon di Sentinella before a steep push on a scree slope to Forcella Undici on path no. 124.
The route then undulates on path no 101, mostly downhill until you reach the protected section of the via ferrata. The cable section is straightforward and the main highlight is the Ledge of Salvation.
The route then bends westward passing Lago d’Ghiaacciato and the scree slope directly beneath Zwölferkofel before dropping slightly to Rifugio Zsigmondy, where it joins the route described above. From here you can continue to rifugio Pian Di Cengia.
Day 1 Extension: Mitti di Mezzo
- Distance: 2 km / 1.2 mi
- Walking time: 1 h
- Elevation gain: ca. 150 m / 500 ft
- Path number: 101A
If you’ve set off early and have a bit of spare time in the afternoon, behind Rifugio Pian di Cengia starts the route to the summit of Mitti di Mezzo.
It doesn’t take long, but on a decent day, you can spend ages at the top looking down into the Fiscalina Valley you’ve just hiked up or into the Sassovecchio Valley which branches of it.
If you look at eye level instead you’ll have Tre Cime to the South West, Tre Scarperi to the North West, Zwölferkofel to the South, and Croda Rossa to the East.
The best part is, I didn’t see another person (who wasn’t in my hiking group) at this viewpoint. We had the whole place to ourselves.
Night 1: Rifugio Pian Di Cengia (Büllelejochhütte)
This is a beautifully situated albeit very small refuge with super friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere. There are only 15 sleeping spaces
| Club Alpino Italiano member (CAI) | Price/night (half board) | Summer season 2023 opening times | How to make a reservation |
| NO | Euro 72 | June 10th – October 2nd | Send booking requests via the website |
TIP: If Pian Di Cengia hut is full then Rifugio Zsigmundy Comici makes a great alternative. You can make make a reservation directly on their website.
Day 2: Rifugio Pian di Cengia to Rifugio Locatelli
- Distance (Option 2): 4 km / 2.5 mi
- Walking time (Option 2): 2-3 h
- Elevation gain (Option 2): ca. 370 m / 1213 ft
- Elevation loss (Option 2): ca. 470 m / 1542 ft
- Via ferrata level: beginner
After leaving Rifugio Pian di Cengia the hike continues northwestward on path no. 101 towards Forcella Pian di Cengia. Here the route splits and you will be faced with two choices.
Option 1: Hike along Laghi Di Piani
The first one is to continue on path 101 all the way to Rifugio Locatelli. The refuge is only a 1-1.5 hour walk away from the Pian di Cengia hut. Choose this option if you are feeling tired from the previous day or don’t want to do two via ferratas in one day.
Option 2: Via ferrata Innerkofler and the summit of Monte Paterno
The second one, which I personally recommend is taking the high alpine route that runs parallel to path no.101 and tackling the via ferrata Innerkofler with the summit extension to Monte Paterno. This option will take 2-3 hours depending on your fitness level.
Via ferrata Innerkofler, also known as via ferrata De Luca, is drenched in WW1 history. From Forcella Pian Di Cengia you will need to head towards Forcella dei Laghi then Forcella Camioscio. If you were wondering the meaning of the word Forcella it means saddle.
After scaling a few protected ledges, the route to the top of Monte Paterno becomes available. It’s a wide summit that is attained by a few switchbacks on a well-trodden scree path.
The views at the top are terrible and not worth visiting. Just kidding. I sometimes run out of adjectives to describe the beauty of the Dolomites.
After checking out the summit you will have to descend back down to Forcella Camiosco and then follow the signs for Rifugio Locatelli. You will also cross a couple of hundred meters of tunnel network created by the soldiers during World War I. It’s a surreal place.
I have a separate article describing via ferrata Innerkofler starting at Rifugio Locatelli and ending at Forcella Lavaredo, but since you will be coming from a different direction I highly recommend that you study the route on the Tabacco Map no. 010 and the map I provided above.
Entension Day 2: Via Ferrata Torre di Toblin
- Distance: 2 km / 1.2 mi
- Walking time: 1.5 – 2 h
- Elevation gain/loss: ca. 200 m / 650 ft
- Via ferrata level: intermediate
In the afternoon, once you’ve seen all the sights in the immediate vicinity of the Locatelli hut, your next challenge is via ferrata Torre di Toblin. It’s not an easy climb but with some steady feet, it’s attainable even for those who are just beginning their adventure with Italian via ferratas.
I think the main thing people have trouble with on this route is exposure. In one particular section, you have to climb a ladder on a rocky cleft, with a decent fall below you (see the photo above of me clinging to that ladder).
Climbing a secure ladder is easy under normal circumstances but when it’s cold, windy, and icy dangling above a 100m drop becomes somewhat mentally tougher.
The true route goes clockwise around Torre di Toblin and ascends its northern side. The descent on Torre di Toblin’s eastern face is much easier climbing and of a far shallower grade.
It’s generally accepted that the eastern route can be done as the ascent and descent as there are multiple safe places to pass groups going in the other direction (unlike the north face).
I’ve been to the summit a few times, I even bivouacked up there once! The view is outstanding. I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves. For more info visit my in-depth article about the via ferrata Torre di Toblin available in the via ferrata category of my Italian Dolomites Guide.
Night 2: Rifugio Locatelli (Dreizinnenhütte)
This is the toughest rifugio to get reservations at. It’s a big but very sought-after hut so make a reservation here first and then plan the trip accordingly.
The terrace of Rifugio Locatelli has a view of the northern faces of Tre Cime. Their stark flat slabs raise more than 600m above. You can often spot climbers scaling the faces of these monoliths.
Near the hut, you can find interesting rock formations, flowers, and lakes that make for excellent photography foregrounds. The famous WW1 caves, which I’ve highlighted on the map are a ten-minute hike away on the slopes of Sasso di Sesto.
| Club Alpino Italiano member (CAI) | Price/night (half board) | Summer season 2023 opening times | How to make a reservation |
| Yes | From 60 Euro for Alpine Club Members and 72 Euro for non-members | June 24th – September 24th | Send requests through the website. Make sure to read the guidelines first. |
TIP: If Rifugio Locatelli is fully booked try Rifugio Lavaredo instead. They are only 45 minutes away from each other.
Day 3: Rifugio Locatelli to Rifugio Fonda Savio
- Distance: 12.5 km / 7.8 mi
- Walking time: 4h 30min
- Elevation gain: 685 m / 2250 ft
- Elevation loss: 720 m / 2360 ft
- Via ferrata level: beginner
- Path numbers: 101, 117, or 105, 117
When leaving Rifugio Locatelli on the third day of the traverse you will once again be faced with a choice.
You can circle the Three Peaks clockwise crossing the famous Forcella Lavaredo – one of the most iconic views in the Dolomites. This is a good option if you didn’t secure a reservation in Locatelli and stayed overnight in Rifugio Lavaredo instead.
The second option is to go around the Tre Cime counterclockwise on path no. 105 following the Alta Via 4 route for the day. Distance wise both ways are roughly the same and will lead you to the same spot – rifugio Auronzo.
The route then heads south on Via Ferrata Sentierro Bonacossa (path no. 117). For the most part, Sentiero Bonacossa is a hike with a short downhill cable-protected section in the middle.
It has a Fletcher/Smith climbing rating of 1A, the technically simplest, most unexposed route. I would still however recommend putting on your via ferrata equipment. In the mountains always follow the rule – better to be safe than sorry.
The frustrating part is that when you do go down the cabled section into the Val De Le Cianpedele, you lose a lot of elevation only to gain it all again on the last push to Rifugio Fonda Savio.
Night 3: Rifugio Fonda Savio
Apart from the location, my fondness of this hut lies in its wonderful staff, particularly women called Marianna. She’s a no-nonsense, strict but fair, amicable, woman, who is the epitome of mountain culture. You go to bed early at night, you wake up early and you work hard during the day.
| Club Alpino Italiano member (CAI) | Price/night (half board) | Summer season 2023 opening times | How to make a reservation |
| YES | 62 Euro for Alpine Club Members and 72 for non-members | approx. June 15th – September 30th | E-mail florianpoernbacher @rolmail.net or call +39 (0) 435 39036 |
Day 4: Via Ferrata Merlone
- Distance: 3 km / 1.85 mi
- Time required: 3-4 h
- Elevation gain/loss: ca 400 m / 1310 ft
- Via ferrata level: intermediate
This is really rewarding via ferrata. Although it’s very exposed, the actual route doesn’t contain any technical climbing. For the most part, it’s a series of steep ladders going straight up the western faces of Cima Del Cadin. The views of the Fonda Savio hut are especially grand in the approach to the ferrata.
The approach is short. At first, it gains a little elevation directly south of the hut then drops into, and crosses, the Ciadin Del Nevaio. This was probably once a vast glacier but now all that remains is a small and easy-to-navigate snowpack.
Climbing via ferrata Merlone is fun and exciting and if you’re really moving quickly you can be at the top in less than 2 hours after starting. It’s really satisfying sitting on the summit after spending a considerable chunk of yesterday admiring this range.
The route down is the same as the ascent. Once you get back to the refuge, where potentially you could have left some stuff to lighten your load, you can enjoy a nice lunch before completing the last leg of this traverse.
Day 4: Rifugio Fonda Savio to Lago Antorno
- Distance: 3 km / 1.85 mi
- Time required: 1.5 h
- Elevation loss: ca. 600 m / 1970 ft
- Path numbers: 115
This is the final section of the traverse and after what you’ve been through for the past 4 days, it’s a welcome downhill hike on path no. 115 all the way to the road.
The car park where the path finishes is almost equidistant between Lago d’Antorno and Lago d’Misurina. I suggest going first to Lago d’Antorno and taking a look at Tre Cime reflecting in its calm waters.
Afterward, you can head down to the much larger, and busier, Lago Misurina where regular buses run to Cortina D’Ampezzo or northward back to Toblach then San Candido and Sesto.
Alternatively, you can stay in one of the hotels in Misurina. This would be the luxury you deserve after completing this traverse.
Frequently asked questions about Tre Cime Traverse
How to get back to the trailhead after completing the traverse?
If you left your car at the trailhead on day one and need to get back to it. Take a bus from Lake Antorno to Pian Di Fiscalina. The journey takes 1 hour 24 minutes and requires two changes (bus 444, 446, and 440).
Once again check the schedule on the previously mentioned Sued Tirol Mobil website. Type in Auronzo di Cadore, Lago d’Antorno as your departure point and Moso (Sesto), Pian di Val Fiscalina as your destination.
How to shorten the Tre Cime Traverse to 3 days?
Skip the night at Rifugio Pian di Cengia and push to Rifugio Locatelli on day 1, where you can spend your first night. Tackle via ferrata Torre di Toblin or Innerkoler either on the afternoon of day 1 or the morning of day 2. On the second day continue to rifugio Fonda Savio.
How to extend the Tre Cime Traverse to 5 days?
If you would like to add another day to this traverse I recommend following via ferrata Strada Degli Alpini to Rifugio Carducci, where you can stay the first night.
On the second day add via ferrata Severino Casara around Zwölferkofel to the itinerary. You can spend the second night at Rifugio Pian Di Cengia and then continue the trip as described in the post.
TIP: If you would like to adjust this itinerary to your personal needs then use my trip planning services. We can schedule an online meeting and talk about personalizing the trip.
How to pack for the Tre Cime Traverse?
Since you neither have to carry food or water supplies nor camping equipment you can really go light on this trip. I have a complete hut-to-hut packing list, that will ensure that you don’t overpack, but still bring everything necessary for a safe and enjoyable backpacking trip.
Is there electricity, running water, and showers in the huts?
Whilst you can expect electricity and running (cold) water in the huts, showers are more of an exception than a reality in the high alpine huts. Out of the 3 huts, only Locatelli offers showers, but they will cost you extra. The water is scarce in the mountains after all. For a full list of what to expect when staying in mountain huts in the Dolomites visit my other article.
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Osprey 30+ Liter Backpack
30-40 liter backpack should be more than enough to pack everything you need for a hut-to-hut trip in the Dolomites with plenty of room for water and snacks. If you can’t fit in, it means you are overpacking. I am a huge fan of Osprey backpacks and they have plenty of options in this storage volume range to choose from.
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Sleeping Bag Liner
Sleeping bag liners are required for hut stays. Duvets and blankets aren’t washed after each guest who stays at the hut. Liners ensure that you don’t come in direct contact with the sheets and subsequently, it is more hygienic. Some huts rent or sell them, but it’s better to bring your own.
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Patagonia Insulated Jacket
Even in the middle of the summer season evenings can be quite cold. If you don’t plan on venturing out of the hut in the evenings, you can skip this layer. I personally always bring one with me as I like to take sunset photos outside.
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Merino Wool T-Shirts
Having a couple of Merino Wool T-shirts which you can alternate and then wash at the hut each day will be more than enough to keep body odors at bay. I am personally a big fan of the Icebreaker brand, however these days plenty of other brands have Merino products in their inventory.
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Merino Wool Socks
I always carry 2 pairs of socks in my backpack and one on me during multiday backpacking trails. Merino wool fibers and their unique properties are resistant to odors. Merino wool socks also prevent getting blisters as opposed to cotton socks.
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Peak Design Camera Clip
A must-have for any mountain photography enthusiast who is tired of carrying a camera around their neck. The peak design capture clip allows you to attach your camera to a backpack strap. That way you don’t have to take your backpack off and take your camera out every time you want to take a photo. You will always have it handy.
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More Backpacking Trips In the Italian Dolomites
- Alta Via 1 (11 days)
- Alta Via 2 (14 days)
- Alta Via 4 (6-7 days)
- Rosengarten Traverse (3-5 days)
- Pale Di San Martino Traverse (2-4 days)
- Dolomiti Brenta Traverse (3-5 days)
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If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below!
Did you change this route recently? If I remember correctly you had a via ferrata marked out from Rifugio Locatelli to Rifugio Lavaredo. I customized my route based off of your Google maps which was extremely helpful, thank you for sure a detailed blog!
Hi Stephen. No I didn’t change the route, I just updated the post. You can do via ferrata Innerkofler which you are referring to, either when walking from Pian Di Cengia to Locatelli or from Locatelli to Lavaredo. Have you gotten a topo Tabacco map yet? that would be the best thing to do to understand the routes better. My google maps are for reference only. Let me know if you have any questions. I am happy to help. Happy hiking!
Hi Marta,
Thank you so much for your detailed and inspiring guides! I have booked for my group to stay at Zsigmondy-Huette, Rifugio Auronzo, and Rifugio Fonda Savio. We will be staying in the dormitory at each hut. I was wondering what we will be expected to bring to sleep in, as some of the huts mention that linen will not be provided. Will a sleeping bag be essential, or will a sheet/blanket be enough? Or do you know if we can pay for bed linen when we arrive at each hut? We would like to travel as light as possible.
Thanks again,
David
Hey David! That’s great to hear! Thanks for following my itinerary and amazing that you managed to book the huts. As for your question, bringing a sleeping bag liner is more than enough. No sleeping bags needed! A liner will fit into the palm of your hand. Some huts sell them, but the prices are inflated, just bring your own. I would also suggest that you check out my article about everything to expect when staying in the mountain huts in the Dolomites.
Hi Marta,
We’re booked in to do this hike starting tomorrow, but the weather forecast is looking like rain! The following 3 days weather wise are much better so shouldn’t be a problem. Will it be safe for us do get to bullejochhutte from fischleintalboden?
Hey Morgan! Yes it’s been raining a lot the past night and today. I am based not too far away. It seems like tomorrow mostly showers are in forecast, not heavy rain. I’d say wait it out and see. If it rains heavily in the morning then don’t go, wait until it subsides a bit and leave later in the midday. I would not recommend hiking in heavy rain. It hardly ever rains for the whole day in the mountains. Sooner or later the rain will turn into a small drizzle or stop completely. You can always call the hut and let them know you will arrie later. They usually hold your spots until 5PM, but if they will know you will arrive later they won’t give them away. You also have Rifugios Talschlusshuette and Zsigmondy along the way. where you can shelter from the rain for a bit if it starts raining again. Good luck. I hope you get to go!
Hi Marta, thank you for the detailed guide. I wanted to get your advice on this plan. I have reservations next week for Comici, Locatelli, and Fonda Savio. I’d really like to include Torre di Toblin and north-to-south Innerkofler (including Monte Paterno), and maybe Mitti di Mezzo. Should I attempt Toblin on day 2 after arriving at Locatelli (but it’ll be later in the day and thunderstorm risk, though I’m willing to skip Mitti to get back some time)? Or early on day 3, but it’ll be a very long day (Toblin + Locatelli to Lavaredo via innerkofler + Lavaredo to Fonda Savio hike/ferrata)? I am an avid hiker and rock climber, but new to ferrata, so I’m not sure what pace to expect. Thank you!
Hi Sum. Thanks for visiting. I think your plans will be quickly verified by the weather. If the weather and forecast will be good for day 2 then go for Torre Di Toblin on day 2. If the forecast is bad then leave it for the next day, however I would then either do one or the other (innerkofler or Toblin), otherwise as you said your day might become too hard. If you are extremely fit then you can manage it all, but I don’t know your capabilities so it is tough to say. For me doing Toblin, Innerkofler and then still hiking to Fonda Savio in one day would be too much, but I like to take my time.
Hey Marta!,
Thank you for putting up this detailed guide. Just completed the hike with all extensions and via-Ferrata, It was amazing. The amount of WW heritage is not to be missed.
Thank you and cheers 🙂
Mahesh
Hi Mahesh. Thank you for such a wonderful feedback. I am so glad to hear you completed the traverse. I hope you come back one day and tackle other ones too!
Hi Marta, would you recommend taking trekking poles with us? We are intending to do all the via ferratas, for during which I assume we’d stow the poles away, but I was wondering if it’s worth the hassle to bring trekking poles for the rest of the non-via ferrata portions of the trek. Thanks!
It depends how well you do without them. I never ever leave without my poles. Mine pack away really nicely and don’t stick out above my backpack. My pair of poles also weighs only 300 grams. The Z-type poles are my favorites, because the pack up very small.
Also the hike can’t be too technical or require any gear! thank you
Hi Marta,
Thank you for your amazing page. It is so helpful. I’m struggling with hut reservations. Is there a good route I could do starting at Rifugio Fonda Savio, (missing out Rifugio Lavaredo, Rifugio Pian di cengia (Büllelejochhütte), Rifugio Zsigmundy, Rifugio Auronzo). Drei-schuster-huette has availability on day 3 of the hike and Rifugio Prati di Croda Rossa on all 3 days. I’m still waiting to hear back from Rifugio Carducci and Rifugio Locatelli / Dreizinnenhütte.
Thank you in advance!
Hi Jennifer. I am afraid whichever way you go from Fonda Savio you will encounter a via ferrata (apart from the approach route to the hut which is only 90 minutes long) Fonda Savio lies halfway between rifugios Auronzo and rifugio Col De Varda which are connected with the Via ferrata Sentiero Bonacossa route. Most of the route is just a hike but there are a few cable protected sections for which you should have Via ferrata Equipment with you. Have you tried calling the huts directly? Once they are open for the summer season this is the best way to secure a booking and find out whether they are actually full.
Marta,
Thanks for valuable information. I plan a 2D hike at Tre Cime. I have a lot of time to do the hike. I love the overnight stay at Rif Locatelli (a 8 day hut-to-hut hike in 2016.) I will take my friends to experience the similar. The via Ferrata section near Mont Paterno is suitable for beginners. Is it still requires via ferrata gears? There are 3 paths from Rif Lavaredo to Rif Locatelli, one is the patern gallerie und kriegssteige (and passpotensteig), which is climb over the Paterno. I see there is a bypass route around the Paterno. Can we take that route to go around Paterno to avoid via ferrata? The other 2 paths on the west side of patern gallerie und kriegssteige are the commonly used by hikers via Forcella Lavaredo. Which of these 2 will you recommend, the east or the west one? Also, do you recommend the route via Forcella Pian di Cengia instead of via Forcella Lavaredo? I hiked the trail via Forcella Pian di Cengia in 2016 (in reverse direction), but never did the trail via Forcella Lavaredo. I plan to explore the tunnel leading to Mont Paterno, which I did in 2016. Is it the same trail as patern gallerie und kriegssteige? We will just walk a short distance for fun. Please advice. We will hike around Lacatelli: Grotta delle Tre Cime for photos, Laghi dei Piani, etc. Thank you so much.
Hi Ning-Chia. Thanks for stopping by. What I would recommend is that you start from Hotel Dolomitenhof in Val Fiscalina on the Croda Fiscalina circuit trail. Get to Locatelli, spend the night then do the Tre Cime Circuit including via ferrata Innerkofler (Yes you definitely need via ferrata gear for it). Then exit on the second day through Val Sassovecchio (past Laghi Dei Pani) back to where you started. So Basically you will combine Croda Fiscalina Circuit with Tre Cime Circuit and Via ferrata Innerkofler. As for the rest of the questions galleria stands for tunnels so yes it is the same trail. Kriegssteige however I am not sure what you mean by that one. I hope that helps!
Hey Marta!
Thanks a lot for putting up this guide! I’m deciding between this one or a shorter 4-day Alta Via 2 for the beginning of August.
It’ll be my first solo multi-day hike, and my only worry is with snow/ice on this specific trail. Do you need crampons to pass through certain areas?
Thanks a lot in advance!
Hi Jorge. Thanks for stopping by. All the snow is gone from the peaks and the weather is currently really hot. Don’t worry about the snow and ice, worry more about thunderstorms. Make sure you hike in the morning and be in the huts by afternoon when the storms approach. No crampons needed for any off the trails in this post during the summer season. I hope that helps!
Hi Marta,
I read this post and you inspired me to do this. I somehow was able to book all those huts in the order you suggested and I am making my way there in late August. It’s my first time going and I have never done anything like this. I am a little afraid because I am a beginner and heights scare me a little, so I am about to read all your blogs regarding what to expect and probably will message back with some questions, but I wanted to say THANK YOU SO MUCH for writing such a detailed blog. It was so helpful!!
Hi Jonathan. I am do glad to hear I inspired you to go. I understand the anxiety. The good thing is you will meet lots of people in the huts with whom you can team up. Always take your time, don’t bite more than you can chew for day to day hikes and be properly equipped. Have lots of fun and do let me know if you can’t find answers to any questions that may pop up.
Hi Marta,
Hope you’re doing well.
I am now under a month out from this part of my trip, very excited!
I did want to quickly check a few points, Are there spots on the way to top up on water/food or would you recommend we take all of what we need from the huts? if so can you purchase lunch snacks at the huts to take?
Planning to leave the car at the end of the hike. It looks like there is ample parking and no need to book?
Your guides have been a lifesaver thank you!
Hi Christopher. I would recommend that you check out my articled about everything to know about staying in the mountain huts in the Dolomites. It answers your questions about water, snacks and lunches. There really is no need to carry too much. You can’t prebook the parking lots before. They operate on a first come first serve basis. The weekends can get very busy and August is busy throughout the whole month, but if you are heading for a day’s hike then starting early is a necessity because the weather is usually better in the mornings. I hope that helps!
Also, what is the likelihood of thunderstorms in late August? We are planning to start our trek by taking the cable car up from Moos/Sesto. It seems like it starts running at 0830 in the morning according to the schedule and we are planning to being with the Day 1 via ferrata route (Via ferrata Strada Degli Alpini). Given the “late” start time in the morning and this being a longer route, would we safely be able arrive at Zsigmondy whilst avoiding thunderstorms? This would also be our first time with via ferrata.
Thank you so much for your guidance!
Hi Hamza. Storms usually happen in June and July. In August the chances for storms are slim but not zero. Best is to just check the forecast the day before. The storms are usually in the late afternoon so if you leave at 9 you should be at Zsigmondy by 2PM. If the forecast is bad than just skip the ferrata and hike to Zsigmondy along the trail through Fiscalina Valley. I am sorry I cannot give you a straight answer, but I simply can’t predict the weather for when you go 🙂
This information is very helpful, thank you! Of course the weather can’t be predicted, but this helps for us to have a backup plan in case of bad weather. Thanks again.
Fingers crossed for good weather and make sure to leave the huts early to get the most of the beautiful blue bird mornings.
Hi Marta, we are wondering if it’s possible to store our luggage somewhere in Misurina for when we finish our trek? I have learned there is luggage storage available at the Cortina d’Ampezzo bus station, but I was hoping there would be an option for storage in Misurina (we asked our hotel, Grand Hotel Misurina and they said they could not store luggage). Are we out of luck for that?
Hi Hamza. Sorry but I don’t know of any places in Misurina to store a luggage. It’s a very small place with only a few hotels and a souvenir/convenience store.
Thanks, no worries! I ended up switching our stay to a hotel in Cortina instead and they are able to keep our luggage.
That’s great to hear! Let me know how your trip goes.
Hi, thanks for such a great guide. I will be following your route this summer. Is the route signed at all or do you rely completely on a map and compass? Thanks!
Hi Nancy. thanks for visiting. the routes in the Alps are marked extremely well. On the signs you usually see markings for the huts so just know the names of the huts you are staying at and you will be good to go. Carrying a map is always a good idea though and I have mentioned in the text what map is needed for this traverse.
Thanks for all your wonderful information! We are planning a 3 day 2 night hike, making the tre cime traverse a loop beginning and ending at hotel dolomitenhof. Hut availability was limited. Got first night at Zsigmundy and second night at Lavaredo. Looping back around to Locatelli and out via Sassoverchio valley. It looks like on your interactive map the via ferrata would be optional. Am I reading that correctly? Would like to do the via ferrata but haven’t arranged/looked into rental and we are a group of 7. We are hiking on the 18th of June , driving from Milan that morning. Do you think I still have time to arrange rental of equipment and would you have a suggested location that would work for pickup/rental of the via ferrata with our route?
Could you give any rough estimates on times for hiking on each day of this route?
I read that we need sleeping bag liners for the huts but in Zsigmondy is says we are in a group room/ mattress camp and I saw someone else here in the comments say you needed your own sleeping bag for that. Is that correct bc we can’t do that. Would we be able to rent any locally prior to starting our hike?
Hi Vickie. Make sure to leave for the trail early as afternoon storms are come in June and July. As for your questions yes the via ferratas are optional apart from the stretch between Auronzo and Fonda Savio but you won’t be doing that. You can look for stores in San Candido or Sesto called noleggio (it means rental). As for rough estimates- Trailhead to Comici: 2-3 hours of walking. Comici to Locatelli: ca. 2 hours.
I never needed a sleeping bag in any of the refuge I stayed only sleeping bag liner. During covid some huts had the policy that you had to bring your own sleeping bag, but nowadays it is all back to normal.
Thanks so much for the information! One other question. On day two, if we take the high alt trail 101b and summit Monte Paterno we will be in the middle of the via ferrata innerkofler correct? Our second night is in Lavaredo hut. Just wondering if we should go left to the hut or go right and try for the torre di tolblen via ferrata and still have time to make it to lavaredo (starting from zsigmondy in the early am) or should we just head on to lavaredo after the summit of mounte paterno and see if there is enough time the last day to do the torre di toblin before we make our exit down the valley on 102 through sassovecchio?
Hi Vickie. Yes that’s correct. You can hike from Comici to Locatelli, do VF Torre di Toblin then afterwards VF Innerkofler and finish in Lavaredo in a day. You should also have enough time to do Via Ferrata Torre Di Toblin on the last time. I reckon just see what the weather is like on those days and plan accordingly.
Hi Marta thank you so SO much for putting all this time into these posts and questions! It is very selfless of you and very appreciated!
I am going mid-September with a friend, we have a stay at Rifugio Locatelli booked for the first night, we then have the option of staying at Rifugio Auronzo, Rifugio Lavaredo or Fonda savio. We are still deciding on whether to do 2-night trip or 3, which refugio would you recommend for our second night if a 2-night trip / 2nd and 3rd if a 3-night trip? Our route also has to be circular as we will have a hire car waiting at the bottom for us. Thank you so so much in advance!
Hi Bex. Thanks for your great feedback. If you were doing 2-night trip then Locatelli and Fonda Savio would make sense. If 3 night trip then you could do Locatelli, Lavaredo then Fonda Savio. Although Locatelli and Lavaredo are very close to one another on day two you could do extensions to Torre Di Toblin and Innerkofler. As for the need of the route being a loop I wouldn’t worry about that. You can easily get back to your car by public bus.
Hi Marta
Thanks for this great website and travel advice!
My partner and I have booked for 21-24 June to do this hike. However in reverse staying in Savio,
Lavaredo, Zsigmundy.
This would mean leaving our car at Val Escalina early on the 21st and then catching public transport to Lago Misurina to start the hike to Savio. The reason we’re doing it this way is that when we exit on the 24th we need a short hike to the car to then drive to Munich.
Can you advise how best to look for and book bus transport (or other transport) from Val Escalina to Lago Misurina. Google maps seems to say this will take 14hr.
You assistance will be greatly appreciated!
Thanks
Chris
Hi Chris. the journey takes around 1.30 min. Go to Sued Tirol Mobil website. put Moso (Sesto), Pian di Val Fiscalina as your starting point and Auronzo di Cadore, Lago d’Antorno as your destination. You buy the tickets on the bus. I hope that helps!
Hi Marta,
Your site is amazing and I’ve used it a TON to plan our trip late august to Tre Cime. One question on map options. I will probably use onX or fat map on my phone but also wanted to get a hard copy topo map. I’m having trouble finding anything online – can’t seem to find Tabacco 10 anywhere on my initial google/amazon search (it’s saying no longer available on amazon). I’m curious if you have any pointers or if there are local outdoor shops nearby where we can purchase them once we are in town (we should have a day in Sesto before starting our trek. Thanks so much!
Hi Marianne. It seems like they sold out. Yes, even huts sell the maps so you should be able to find a copy in a town where you are staying prior to hiking. Each hut also has a map framed outside or somewhere inside which you can study. There are some small outdoor shops and rental places in San Candido and Sesto where you should be able to purchase the maps. I hope that helps!
Hi Marta!
Just wanted to say your blog has totally inspired me to come visit the Dolomites. Not only are the photos beautiful, but you present the information so well, making the planning of the trip much easier! I will try to use one of your affiliated links when it comes time to booking to show you my support 🙂
I have a few questions:
1) In your blog, you mention that you drove and parked at Bad Moos Hotel’s parking lot to start your hike. From the information I have seen on the official drei-zinnen.bz website, it says that from June to October, the roads in Fischleintal valley are closed between Anderter and Kreuzbergpass (Sesto and the Bad Moos hotel are in the middle). The website says cars cannot enter that area and that we have to take the special 440 shuttle. Is this something new? I wanted to ask you if you know anything about it and if so, it can help me and also help the readers planning to do this hut-to-hut trek.
2) I am planning on staying overnight in Misurina and leaving my car there, then in the morning taking the buses to get to the start of the trek near Bad Moos Hotel. From my research, I would need to take bus 444 to Dobbiacho, then 446 to Anderter, then the special 440 bus to Bad Moos. You mention in your blog that you prefer parking the car at the end of the hike and bussing to the starting point. Is this the bus route that you took? If so, how did you go about purchasing the tickets?
3) You provide two awesome options to starting the hike at Val Fiscalina, whether hiking up, or doing the Via Ferrata Strada Degli Alpini. Since this is a point to point hike, so we will only have the choice of one, in your opinion, which route do you find more awesome? 🙂
4) You recommended using The tobacco map n10 for hiking this route. Does it help with both the hiking part and the Via ferrata trails? I also saw the book by Cicerone called Via Ferratas of the italian dolomites part 1 that seem to describe all the routes in this hike. Do you have any experience with it?
Thank you once again and I look forward to your response!
Hi Ryan! Thanks for visiting and for supporting my site I would really appreciate it.
as for your questions. There is a parking lot near Bad Moos hotel called Parcheggio Croda Rosa. That’s the parking lot for the chairlift. I just checked the drei zinnen website for the fischleintal and didn’t see any info about driving restrictions there, but parking is limited hence they recommend taking a bus instead. In the FAQ’s section of the Fischleintal you have all the info about the bus numbers etc.
2) Tickets can be purchased on the bus. I talk about this bus route in my Tre Cime Circuit guide. and Croda Fiscalina Circuit guide.
3) If you plan on bringing Via ferrata Equipment then I would 100 percent recommend VF Strada Degli Alpini, but this route is definitely a lot harder.
4) Yes. And yes the Cicerone guidebook for Via Ferratas is great too, but I wouldn’t bring it on the hike. A map is enough.
I hope that helps!
Thank you so much Marta for your quick reply 🙂
1) on the Drei Zinnen website, FAQ for Can I go to Fischleintal valley with my car, it says “From 06/11 -10/08/2023 the Fischleintal valley can only be reached by the Fischleintal Shuttle Val Fiscalina (line 440) on foot by bike or – with the exception of temporary closures in the time from 9 am – 4 pm – by car. Work is still in progress on a passage by showing a valid passage permit. For cars, the free parking space at the cable car Monte Elmo in Sexten is recommended.” It made it sound like cars are not allowed in but I may be misinterpreting it, or is it only not allowed in from 9am-4pm?
2) But in any case, my plan is to follow your recommendation to Park at the end of the hike in Misurina and then bus to the starting point. I used the Suedtirolmobil website to lookup the route and it does show I can take 444 + 446 or 444 + 446 + 440.
3) I will rent Via ferrata equipment in Cortina D’Ampezzo for multiple days. I am glad to hear that you would strongly recommend it so we will start with VF Strada Degli Alpini 🙂
4) I will purchase the E-book of Cicerone and then get the Tobacco map once I arrive in Italy.
Thanks again for all your help! It has been invaluable
Hi Ryan. This sounds like a new rule introduced because of the work that is going on on that road. Taking the bus will be a better idea for sure. For Via ferrata strada degli Alpini you will need to get off at an earlier bus stop called Kabinenbahn Rotwand then take the gondola up to Rotwandwiese and start your hike there.
Hey! This is fantastic – can’t thank you enough for the level of detail. We are booking only a month in advance (shooting for June 20-25) which I realize is a bad move, but it was a last minute plan – any advice if most of the huts you recommended are booked?
Hi Rachel. No worries. It would be fantastic if you considered supporting my site in return. As for your question. Locatelli might be booked out so you should aim for either Lavaredo or Auronzo if that is the case. Fonda Savio is another busy one, but there is no other refuge in close proximity so if that’s the case you might have to walk out down to lake Antorno on the last day. If you stayed in Auronzo the night before though then you could definitely still squeeze in Via ferrata merlone on the last day before you descend. I hope that helps!
Thank you so much! We are definitely supporting your site and purchasing from your links to prepare – very much appreciated.
One other question – I assume the bus is dropping us near Hotel Dolomitenhof, so if we are taking the Via Ferrata Strada Degli Alpini option on the first day, what is the best way to get from Hotel Dolomitenhof to the top of the Croda Rossa Chairlift near rifugios Rudi and Prati di Croda Rossa?
Hi Rachel. You take the same bus but instead of going all the way to the end you get off at the Kabinenbahn Rotwand bus stop then take the gondola up to Prati Di Croda Rossa. I hope that helps!
Thank you Marta for the great information, this is such a helpful guide to plan our trip. Much appreciated
Thank you Naomi! I hope you have a fantastic time there!
Just saw this comment and thought I’d let you know that we are also from Australia and have found travel insurance that covers via ferrata. Insure4less covers via ferrata so may be worth having a look at their website
Thanks for sharing this with others.
Hi Marta,
Thanks for your detailed blog, Tre Cime looks amazing! My partner and I are planning to do this trek in July. We are from Australia and we are struggling to get insurance for the Via Ferrata so we are now considering hiking without Via Ferrata. Is it possible to hike down to Lake Misurina from Rifugio Auronzo and back up to Rifugio Fonda Savio on day 3 to avoid the Via Ferrata? And are there any other side detours you would recommend we could do which don’t require Via Ferrata? Thank you!
Hi Charlotte. Thanks for visiting. Have you looked at World Nomads insurance? they have some good options for sports.
It is possible to hike down to Lake Antorno from rifugio Auronzo and then back up to Fonda Savio avoiding the via Ferrata routes. I also recommend that you grab a map of this traverse. Dolomiti Sesto no. 010. I’ve linked to it in the blog. Let me know if you have more questions!
Hi Marta,
Thank you so much for your blog! It’s really helpful and my friend and I cannot wait to attempt that excursion. However, we only have three days and nights available. We were wondering if we could shorten it this way (we found availability in these two huts only so far):
Start at Hotel Dolomitenhof
Hut Night #1: Rifugio zgigmundy
Hut Night #2: Rifugio Fonda Savio
End at Lake Antorno
And would VF equipment be required for this trek? (we’d like to do it, but aren’t sure if we have the budget for the equipment so would like to know whether we could go without).
Thanks so much for this blog and your amazing feedback!
Chris
Hi Chris. Thanks for visiting. It is possible to hike from Zsigmundy to Fonda Savio in a day, but it will be quiet a day: ca. 6 hours of walking. Between rifugio Auronzo and Rifugio Fonda Savio there is a via ferrata section called Sentiero Bonacossa. Even though it’s a beginner via ferrata, I would still recommend bringing the via ferrata gear with you. I hope this helps!
Thank you very much Marta! Yes, this was really helpful. I hope this will still be a pretty trek despite us keeping it so short on time!
No worries! Happy hiking!
Hello Marta thank you very much for this wonderful itinerary!
I was wondering what gear you’d recommend I take to complete this trail.
Thank you
-Aidan
Hi Aidan. Thanks for visiting. In the text, I have linked to my complete packing list for the hut-to-hut treks in the Dolomites. You should find it helpful. For the Tre Cime traverse you will also need the via ferrata gear but it is already included in the packing list.
Hi Marta, thank you so much for all your help.
I am arriving and departing from Venice Airport (VCE). Do you have any recommendations for how to get to and back from the hike?
Thank you so much,
Shane
Hi Shane. Thanks for visiting. You can take a shuttle from Venice to Cortina then a local bus from Cortina to Dobiacco and Dobiacco to Val Fiscalina. I have a link to the shuttle in my FAQs in the Italian Dolomites guide. The connection between cortina and val fiscalina you can figure out by using the Sued Tirol Mobil website. Let me know if that helps!
Hello,
Thank you again for you description and well written articles. It’s been a very helpful tool in our planning. While reading the Tre Cime traverse, I knew we would definitely want to do the VF Innerkofler and hike the Tre Cime circuit
Due to the unavailability of some huts, we had to modify our itinerary from your original recommendation, let us know if you have any other suggestions or recommendations.
We are staying in Misurina and we’ll catch the bus to R Auronzo, from there we’ll do the VF Innerkofler/Luca, and then stay the night at R Lavaredo. The next day we’ll circle the tre Cime counter clock wise , head to R Fonda Salvo, possibly do VF Torre di Toblin. The next morning, we might do VF Merlone, then head out back to Misurina .
Hi again Simone. I am sorry to hear that you cannot secure the spots in the huts. Have you tried rifugio Zsigmundy or Carducci for the first night?
Whilst I understand the urge to do Tre Cime circuit this is such a busy trek that I would actually suggest the Tre Cime traverse and starting with Via ferrata Strada Degli Alpini first then staying the first night in rifugio Zsigmundy or Carducci. Then from Carducci trekking to Rifugio Lavaredo and enroute do either Torre Di Toblin or Innerkofler.
On day 3 you can then head to rifugio Fonda Savio.
The itinerary you have outlines doesn’t exactly have much sense because it will mean you will backtrack and repeat tracks quite a bit. I hope that helps!
Yes, this helps a lot. Thank you for your feedback. I’ll look into modifying it as you suggested.
Thank you for this feedback, it was the right timing. When I originally made the reservations, Zsigmundy only had “camp mattresses” available and we did not want to have to add a sleeping bag to our pack. I checked today again after your message, and a few spots had open in the dormitory. We are now able to do the traverse as you suggest. Thank you for all your work and quick replies.
Woohoo!! That’s fantastic news! I am so glad to hear that. I am sure you will love this traverse. Have lots of fun and let me know if you have more questions. Happy hiking 🙂
Hi Marta,
I am enjoying reading your material so much! So helpful and detailed, thank you!
Friends and I are doing this in July, staying in, Zsigmondy, Locatelli and Fondo Savio and then a few nights in Cortina D’ampezzo to do day walks.
We won’t have a car and are thinking of starting in Cortina D’ampezzo and then bussing to the start of the track the morning of the walk, does that sound feasible?
I’m also having trouble arranging transport to and from Cortina D’ampezzo – we will be travelling from Munich to Cortina, and then from Cortina to Passau at the end, any suggestions for how to do that?
Many thanks!
Hi Madeline. Thanks for visiting. If you are traveling from Munich then the easiest would be to catch a train from Munich through Austria to San Candido in Val Pusteria. That will put you in much closer proximity to the start of this traverse. Then you finish it in Cortina. From Cortina, there are daily buses that go to Dobiacco and then again a train back to Germany. I hope that makes sense. let me know if you have more questions! Bus schedules are probably still not up yet because it is still winter season. You will have to look at the connections closer to the dates. Also check out my FAQ’s in the Italian Dolomites Guide page and look for transport.
Hi Marta, Such an inspiring website you have. We are a family who wants to take our 8 and 11 years old children on a 4 days hut to hut hike in july. Is this one too advanced for kids? If so can you recommend any other routes? Thank you, Stine
Hi Stine. Thanks for visiting and for your lovely compliment about my site. Unfortunately, I can’t give you a straight answer to that because I don’t know your kids or their capabilities. What I can tell you though is that I have seen plenty of young children on via ferratas, even a family with 3 kids on Dolomiti Brenta Traverse which is the hardest traverse I have done so far. Ultimately though you know your kids, whether they are scared of heights etc. Let me know if you have more questions.
Thank you for your quick answer. It makes sense. They are fit, but can be a bit scared of heights if the path is very narrow.
Do they need the full ferrata equipment for this route?
No if you only walk day 1,2 and 3 then exit after rifugio Auronzo down to Misurina. If you still hiked between rifugio Auronzo and Fonda Savio then yes you would need VF equipment. You would also need it for the extensions when at Locatelli which I talk about in the post.
Hi Marta,
As others have stated here, this is an amazing and very thorough blog. Thank you for taking the time to do this!
I have a specific predicament that I’d like to get your advice on. We were planing on following this plan exactly, but when booking the huts we ran into some issues with some of them being full. Right now we have:
Start at Hotel Dolomitenhof
Hut Night #1: Rifugio zgigmundy
Hut Night #2:
Hut Night #3: Rifugio Fonda Savio
End at Lake Antorno
Any advice on where to stay for the second night because Locatelli was full! Thanks so much for your expertise!
Heather Muir
Hi Heather. Thanks for your great feedback. You could either try rifugio Lavaredo or rifugio Auronzo. I am not a big fan of Auronzo because it is right next to the parking lot for the Tre Cime circuit hence the area is super busy, but if Lavaredo is fully booked then I would just go for Auronzo. The evenings are mornings are quiet around there.
Locatelli is a tough one to get a reservation at.
Hi Marta. Thank you so much for your detailed itinerary that I plan on doing end of June.
I’m used to long distance hiking but not to via ferratas.
And looking at the itinerary I have the feeling that the days will be short : for example for days 2 and 3, only 4h walks approximately. So if we leave at 7-8am, we will arrive at the next stop around noon (1-2pm with lunch breaks etc I guess).
Is it really different from a hike to add via ferrata in the itinerary? Will it be “exhausting” and fully sufficient to have a 4h walk ? Once at the hut are there other hiking path in the surroundings (apart from the extension you proposed) ?
I really want to do this tour, but I am shared between the fact that it seems “too short” for me (and have nothing in the afternoon), but I don’t want to extend it too much since I’m not familiar with via ferratas…
Thanks !! 🙂
Hi Camille. Thanks for stipping by and for your great feedback. Via ferratas do slow one down a lot because of all the clipping and unclipping one must do on the trail. Some are harder than others but all in all, I would say the time ration via ferrata vs hike would be 2 to 1.
You also have to take the afternoon storms into consideration. They are extremely common in the summer season and being stuck attached to a metal cable when you have lightining all around is, as you can probably guess, not an ideal scenario.
As for your question: will it be “exhausting” and fully sufficient to have a 4h walk. It is for me. I tend to hike max 4-6 hours. Anymore above that and I stop enjoying the hike. Of course everyone is different, so I reckon it’s a question only you can answer yourself.
If you are looking for a bigger challenge then I recommend a following itinerary: Day 1 via ferrata Strada Degli Alpini (the alternative start I suggest in the post) to Rifugio Carduci. Day 2 Via ferrata Severino Casara around Croda Dei Toni to rifugio Pian di Cengia or Locatelli. Day 3 Via ferratas Torre Di Toblin and Innerkofler. Day 4 Hiking from Pian di Cengia or Locatelli (depending where you stayed the night before) to Fonda Savio + Via ferrata Merlone weather permiting. Let me know if that helos. Do get the map for the Sesto Dolomites which I link to in the post. It will help you visualize the route.
Hi Marta,
Thanks you very much for your quick and complete answer!
I think I will stick to your original tour with all the variations. Since I’m not used to Via Ferrata it will allow me to avoid them (if, we never know, I’m not a fan), and also to adapt the journey depending on the weather, you’re right it’s a key point to take into consideration!!
Regarding availabilities in the rifugios I will sleep at Zsigmondy Hütte (Pian di Cengia already full), then Locatelli (this one I’m not sure it is available, otherwise I will adapt the travel to sleep in Auronzo or Lavarezzo Rifugio) then Fonda Savio.
I will write a feedback after my trip!
Hi Camille. Fingers crossed that you like the ferratas and if not then you can just explore the whole day along the nearby trails. Plenty of them around Tre Cime Park. Locatelli is notoriously difficult to get a reservation at so fingers crossed you do squeeze in. Many of my readers already report that it is fully booked for the summer. I am looking forward to hearing your feedback.
Happy hiking
Hi there, thank you so much for this very helpful article! We were planning on parking our rental car at Lago Antorno and using public transportation to get to the Croda Rossa chairlift. Do you know if this is possible, and how long it would take?
Thank you again so much for this post, it is incredible!! 🙂
Hi Tai. Yes this is possible. You can catch a bus to Dobiacco then another one to Fischleintal and get of at the bus stop for the Croda Rossa chairlift. You can check the Sued Tirol Mobil app for the connections (the bus schedules won’t probably be accessible until May or June so don’t check it yet). As for bus stop names you can find them on google maps, just zoom in on the location. It will probably take around 90 minutes in total because you will definitely need to change the bus once or twice. Let me know if you need any more help!
Hello,
Me again (see comment below). Could I just reserve a spot at Rifugio Auronzo instead of Fonda Savio? Would it be too much of a long day if we left rifugio Auronzo to do via ferrata Merlone?
Thanks again for your time,
Claudine
Hi Claudine. Thanks for visiting and for all your comments. I am sorry I didn’t respond sooner. I normally respond within max 48 hours, but I was on the road for the past 10 days. I am happy you managed to book Pian Di Ciengia and LOcatelli. As for Fonda Savio, I would still check back with them in a few weeks to see if maybe they had any cancellations. Rifugio Auronzo is the next alternative, to be honest. I personally walked from Locatelli all the way to Fonda Savio in a day then in the afternoon did the Via Ferrata Merlone and then hiked down to the parking lot.
Pian Di Ciengia and Locatelli are very close by but there are so many different summits you can do around Locatelli, that even if you stay in Auronzo for one night, ylu can first do an extension like VF Torre di Toblin or Innerkofler then head to Auronzo. When staying in Pian Di Cengia you could also do via ferrata Severino Casara. This one is still on my list, but it looks amazing. Don’t worry you won’t run out of things to do even if you stay in 3 huts which are close to one another. Let me know if you have more questions!
Thank you so much! One last question 😅, do you know if the VF Severino Casara is a beginner one?
Hey Claudine. It’s an intermediate one. You will find a great description of it in the Via Ferrata Cicerone guidebook part 1. By James Rushforth.
Hi Marta, thank you for sharing all of this information! For the alternative route on day 1, could we still access the trailhead from the Pian di Val Fiscalina bus stop or is there a different stop you’d recommend?
Hi Zahin. Thanks for visiting. You can hike directly from the parking lot near Hotel Dolomitenhof, however, it will be a heck of a day. Instead, I would recommend that you get off at the Kabinenbahn Rotwand Cabinovia Croda Rossa bus stop and take the Croda Rossa gondola then start the hike from Rotwandwiese. Let me know if I can help further!
Hello Marta,
I have to say your website is extremely informative, thank you so much. My husband and I will be doing this route end of June. We’ve managed to book the first two nights in rifugio pian di Cienga and locatelli, but Fonda Savio is fully booked. What would you recommend as an alternative itinerary? Maybe there is another rifugio near that wouldn’t change the itinerary too much? Please, I need your help 🙏🏻.
Thank you
Should I reserve at rifugio Auronzo for my third night? Although I’m afraid day 3 from rifugio Locatelli to Auronzo might be a bit boring and day 4 from Auronzo to via Ferrata Merlone too hard?
Hi Marta,
Thank you so much for all of this wonderful, helpful information, my partner and I are planning to do this route in the summer!
We will have a rental car and we are hoping to leave it at the end of the route in Misurina. Do you have any recommendations as to where exactly to leave it?
We were also wondering how to get from Misorina to Val Fiscalina once we have dropped off the car – if by bus, do we have to book this in advance? Apologies if this is an obvious question, we are struggling to find some of this information as we are coming over from New Zealand.
Thanks again for all the work that you put into this website,
Sophie
Hi Sophie. It would be good if you left it at a parking lot for the rifugio Fonda Savio trail. The parking is called Parcheggio Libero Cadini. From there you walk down to Misruina, catch a bus to Dobiacco and from Dobiacco you catch a bus to Val Fiscalina. Those are public buses, you pay as you go, and you don’t prebook them. I have more information about the buses on my Tre Cime circuit post which starts at rifugio Auronzo. As for buses to Val Fiscalina you will read about them on my Croda Fiscalina circuit post. Let me know if you have more questions.
Thanks Marta, that sounds great.
Another question, we have managed to book, Zsigmundy for the first night and then Fonda Savio for the third night. We have tried Locatelli however have not heard back yet. Is there another hut that you would recommend for the second night?
Thanks again, really appreciate it.
Sophie
Hi Sophie. You could either try Lavaredo or Auronzo as an alternative to Locatelli.
Hi there, my daughter (22) and I are looking to do a 3 night hut to hut hike at the end of June. We are fit and active, but not as doerienced climvers. We have been recommended to stay a night at the rifugio pian di cengia and perhaps finish up with a luxury night at the Berg hotel. I’m not sure how to build an itinerary around those suggestions! Any ideas or if do you think there are better options to base our trip around?
Hi Kate. Thanks for visiting my site. If by saying that you are not experienced climbers you are referring to via ferrata sections, then I can tell you that via ferrata is not climbing. It is scrambling along cable protected sections being attached to the cables by a lanyard. I recommend that you follow this route and bring VF gear with you for added fun. On the first day you can reach rifugio Pian di Ciengia on a regular route through Val Fiscalina then the next day move onto rifugio Locatelli and do either via ferrata Innerkofler or Torre di Toblin as a side trip (the first one mentioned is easier). The next day you can either exit through Val Campo Di Dentro or Val Sassovecchio to make it back to the Berg Hotel for a nice and well deserved relaxed evening. Let me know if that helps and if you have any more questions.
Hi Marta!
Awesome advice! I was looking into doing this at the beginning of April – is that possible or is it too snowy still?
Thanks!
Hi Isabella. Thanks for visiting. I am afraid the window for this traverse is from the end of June until the third week of September. The huts are closed otherwise and yes in April there will be loads of snow.
Hi Marta!
I’ve looked through your whole website. Your posts are amazing and detailed. Thank you! My wife and I have 12 days in the Dolomites and are considering this Tre Cime Traverse for part of it. We like being away from crowds, but might like to avoid the via ferrata though due to lack of experience. Would it be possible to make this a loop, starting in Val Fiscalina, going up to Dreizinnenhütte, looping around to Rifugio Auronzo, and back down? I think that avoids the via ferratas, but I am not sure if the trip would still be as epic as yours 🙂 Any thoughts?
Thanks for your time!
Nicholas
Hi Nicholas. Thanks for stopping by. If you look at the map of the traverse and read through the article you will find info about shortening this traverse. In short yes you can turn it into a loop or do it as two separate day hikes, the first one being Croda Fiscalina Circuit through Val Fiscalina and the second Tre Cime Circuit. You can find both hike descriptions in the day hikes category of my Italian Dolomites guide. If you want to do it with an overnight hut stay and finish at the same location then just connect the two day hikes as they inteconnect at rifugio locatelli. the whole route will form a figure 8 and can be done over 2 days/1 night. I hope that helps! let me know if you have more questions.
Hi Marta!
Thanks so much for this article! I’ve read all your posts on multiday hikes now! I’m going with my boyfriend in September and I am torn between this hike or 4 days of the alta via 1 (doing the first part). I really can’t decide!!! Which would you recommend?
(I’m very outdoorsy and like heights/climbing but my boyfriend not so much, although I’m sure he could do a via ferrata)
Thanks for your help!
Hi Pippa! Thanks for visiting. Tre Cime is awesome because most via ferratas are done as extensions so if your boyfriend isn’t up for them you can do them on your own. I do however recommend by starting with the via ferrata Strada Degli Alpini. It will be a great introduction to a VF world for him and it’s an easy one too. Just make sure to bring the gear. Rosengarten traverse is another awesome one if you can’t decide. AV1 is fantastic but more of a beginner multiday traverse. I hope that helps!
Marta Hello again! i’m about 8 days away from doing the Tre Cime route you have on here. I’ve checked around on all the websites but can’t find much info. Do you happen to remember which of the huttes had electricity? I just have a bunch of batteries for my cameras and drones. thanks for all your help!
Hi Matt! Thanks for visiting. All huts do, but you need to make sure to charge your things as soon as you get to the hut because the plug sockets often tend to be occupied in the evenings and the electricity is often turned off at night. Ask the staff as soon as you arrive about the policies. If you happen to stay in rifugio Pian di Ciengia then it’s a very small refuge and they do have electricity but it can be very limited. I don’t remember unfortunately if it was or not, but that might be the only one where charging might be more challenging, otherwise, you will have no problem recharging your things. The only thing I would ask you is to be aware of other guests and not to occupy plug sockets for too long, cause obviously everyone wants to use them 🙂 I hope that helps!
thanks so much! in cortina right now and was wondering if you had any suggestions for bus’ to sesto or as close to hotel dolomitenhof as possible. can’t seem to find any and the names are similar but show up not close at all. please let me know if you can help!
Hi Matt. Please check the Sued Tirol Mobil website (suedtirolmobil(dot)info/en) Put Cortina D’Ampezzo as the start and Moso (Sesto), Pian di Val Fiscalina. You will have to change the bus a couple of times and the travel time is around 1 hour 40 minutes. Look like the first bus leaves at 8:05 AM. Good luck! I hope that helps!
Hi Marta,
Great blog and very helpful tips. I’m planning to do a 4 days solo hike in the dolomites in mid October. I have never done this type of hiking before. Any suggestions or tips?
Thanks!
Mohamed
Hi Mohamed. My website is full of suggestions and tips. You’ve got to help me out here and ask me more detailed questions 🙂 I would recommend that you go earlier because in mid-October all the huts tend to be closed. Rosengarten group has huts which stay open from the beginning to mid-October. Bear in mind that wild camping isn’t allowed in the Dolomites.
Hello,
I will be getting on the trail around 3pm and I was wondering if it would be possible to have enough time to take the alternate route on the first day. What is the least amount of time do you think someone could complete the Via Ferrata. I would like to do it but if I do not have enough time I will take the normal shorter route.
Hi Maxwell. Starting a trail at 3PM in the Dolomites during the summer season is a bold move. Do bear in mind that afternoon thunderstorms are super common and being attached to a metal cable wire during a thunderstorm, isn’t exactly the safest passage:) I would only undertake the route (whether normal or through via ferrata) if you have a great forecast ahead.
The fastest you could do via ferrata Strada Degli Alpini to the Zsigmundy hut is probably around 3.5-4 hours, providing you took the gondola up. If you were going up to Pian Di Ciengia then add another 45 mins. This does not include breaks.
Hi Marta! I was wondering if you had any recommendations or if you thought there was a way to skip over staying at the Rifugio Pian di Cengia? We have made all our reservations per your wonderful guide but cannot get the dates we need for that Rifugio. Thanks so much for you help and this AMAZING travel guide.
Allie
Hi Allison. Consider either staying at the Zsigmundy Comici hut or doing a little detour and staying in rifugio Carducci. If you do the latter you can add a via ferrata around Zwölferkofel to your day! Let me know if that helps! happy hiking! Marta
Thanks for these comprehensive guides! Would it be possible to skip Locatelli and go from Rif. Pian Di Cengio to Rif. Fonda Savio?
Hi Christina. Yes, it’s definitely possible to do in a day. Rifugios Pian Di Cengia and Locatelli are only one hour walk from one another. If you don’t plan on any extensions and are fit, then I would say yes you can do it.
Me again! I just found your other post about hiring all the gear, sorry I got ahead of myself!
Obviously we would need to return the gear to where we got it from so would have to backtrack… where would you suggest is the best town to hire the gear for this traverse? Failing that, is this route possible to be just trekked (avoiding ferratas all together)?
Many thanks!
Hey Tara. You could travel to Cortina first then spend the day there before you Alta Via 4. Rent the gear in Cortina. although bear in mind that renting the gear for 6 days might amount to the same price as buying the whole set for yourself. It is ca. 25 euro/day. Cortina is well connected by public buses with other towns in the Dolomites. Once you finish in Pieve Di Cadore you won’t be very far from Cortina to drop the gear off. I am afraid you can’t skip the ferratas if you want to do this route. AV1 doesn’t have any via ferratas along the way. Maybe you should look into it instead? I also have a guide for it on my website.
Great post Marta, thank you!
We are coming to the Dolomites this summer and would love to do this traverse. We have no via ferrata experience nor do we have any gear. Do you know if we are able to hire ferrata gear before starting the trek?
Thanks again! 🙂
Hi Tara. Please have a look at my beginner’s guide to via ferrata climbing in the Dolomites which will answer all of your questions. You can find it in the via ferrat guide section on this blog. Once you comb through it let me know if you have any further questions!
Hi Marta, awesome work with this website BTW ! I really love this 4 day hike. Looking to do it with my Girlfriend first week of September 2022. I assume you just have to pack the bare minimum for the excursion ?! As carrying everything is a must… Also for another 2 extra nights as continuation, what do you reccomend ?
Hi Alin! Thanks for stopping by and your compliment! I really appreciate it. I do link to a complete packing guide for the hut in this article so please do have a look. In the other article you will also find a downloadable checklist for packing. You don’t need to pack food or snacks. Just change of clothes, via ferrata gear and a few little bits and bobs. Anyways do check out the article.
As for your other question you can continue from rifugio fonda Savio to Vandelli and then from Vandelli to San Marco. You can find this section in my AV4 guide which I also link to from this article.
Let me know if that helps and if you have more questions!
Dear Marta,
Great tips, info and amazing pictures! I am very excited to go to the dolomites this summer and planning our trip. Depending on availabiligy in the huts, can we just as easily do the trip the other way around?
Thanks for your advice!
Regards, Sara
Hi Sara, sure you can, but I always recommend hiking North to South rather than in the opposite direction. The reason being is the sun exposure. Hiking South to North is a lot more tiring due to higher sun exposure. Northern Slopes stay in shade for a lot longer in the morning. I hope that helps! Good luck with planning our trip!
Hi Marta,
Your blog is great, lots of inspiring info! Would it be possible to extend this traverse by adding 1 or 2 days, other than the suggestion made above (doing the Via Ferrata Severino Casara)?
Cheers,
Jasper
Hi Jasper! Thanks for your great feedback! It absolutely is. You can start with Via ferrata Strada Degli Alpini on day 1, stay at rifugio Carduccio, then on day two do via ferrata Secerino Casara around Croda Dei Toni (still on my list, I haven’t done that one myself, but it looks great), then you can stay the second night at the Bullelejochhuette, the next day tick of both via ferrata Innerkofler and Torre Di Toblin and stay at Locatelli or rifugio Lavaredo. Day 4 would take you to rifugio Fonda Savio where you could do via ferrata Merlone and on day 5 you could hike all the way to rifugio Vandelli located at Lago di Sorapiss. This stage is described in my Alta Via 4 guide (day 3). If you want you can even hike further than rifugio Vandelli and connect the Tre Cime Traverse with Alta Via 4! Let me know if you have more questions!