This relatively new via ferrata provides a great experience to those who don’t want to spend too much energy on the initial approach.
Located only a few hundred meters from the nearest road, yet still very impressive with the views it provides, via ferrata Degli Alpini Al Col Dei Bos is nothing to be sniffed at.
Via Ferrata Degli Alpini Al Col Dei Bos: The Stats
Time required: 3-4 h
Elevation gain: ca. 510 m / 1670 ft
Route difficulty: intermediate
Where to start via ferrata Degli Alpini Al Col Dei Bos
The start of the ferrata is directly behind “Da Strobel” Restaurant, around halfway between the Falzarego mountain pass and the Cinque Torri chairlift. The nearest town is Cortina D’Ampezzo (17 kilometers/ca. 30 minutes away).
This is probably the only time I will say it, but on this route, you won’t need a map. I still like to carry one because I am always curious about what peaks surround me once I make it to the top.
Tabacco map nr 03 is the one you can use along this route and it can be purchased in many local stores around Cortina or online beforehand.
In the summer season, there are frequent public buses you can hop on and google maps will tell you the schedule. If you are traveling by car, there is an ample parking area on the opposite side of the restaurant, right next to the road and near the rifugio Col Gallina.
Via ferrata Degli Alpini is quite popular with guided groups, so if you want to avoid waiting around, my advice would be to start early.
What to expect along the route
From the start, the path is marked with signs for “Col Dei Bos”. It takes around half an hour to get to the first section equipped with cables. En route you will pass old military ruins dating back to the First World War, one of many war remnants located in this part of the Italian Dolomites.
Once you get to the cables, prepare yourself for a challenge. The first bit goes up vertically for about 100 meters. Good strength in your legs and arms will come in handy.
As long as you stay clipped into the cables and watch where you place your feet you will be fine. Although the whole route to the top is quite steep and exposed, it is always very well protected.
There are a few sections along the way where you can give your legs a rest and admire the surrounding views. There is a lot to look at! The prominent peaks of Cinque Torri, one of the iconic photography spots in the Dolomites will be behind you every step of the way.
Other distinguishable peaks are the pyramid-shaped Mount Antelao – the second-highest mountain in the Dolomites, nicknamed by the locals – the King of the Dolomites.
What would be a King without its Queen? Marmolada – the Dolomiti Queen and the highest peak can be seen to the South West. You can recognize it from the glaciers covering one of its faces.
In the gully to your left, you can spot the zig-zag path, this will be your way down.
The whole climb shouldn’t take longer than 2 hours. Add to it the 30 minutes of the initial approach and in 2,5 hours you should be standing on the top of Cima Bois (2559 meters). Right below the summit, there is an ample grass plateau, where you can take a rest and the obligatory photos.
You can descend the same way but I’d advise against it. Due to the popularity of this via ferrata it will only create unnecessary traffic. Instead, walk down along the scree path which you could see on the ascent.
Although not as exciting, it is certainly a lot faster and within 45 minutes to an hour you should be back down at the restaurant, where you can reward yourself with an apple strudel. A staple of all via ferrata celebrations if you ask me!
If you are looking to extend your day and shoot two birds with one stone, instead of descending, you can head over to Rifugio Lagazuoi, visible from Cima Col Dei Bos, along path nr 401. This famous mountain hut provides access to the Lagazuoi tunnels – a famous and very popular day hike in the Dolomites.
The area around Passo Falzarego has endless hiking possibilities. After completing via ferrata Degli Alpini in the morning, you can take a break in the restaurant, and providing the weather stays good throughout the day, you can ride the Cinque Torri gondola and tick off another via ferrata nearby to the summit of Mount Averau.
Shop my via ferrata gear essentials
Black Diamond Helmet
Rockfall is a major concern on via ferrata routes. Unbeknownst to you, other climbing groups above you may accidentally dislodge a small rock and send it hurtling down the mountain. If it hits you on the head it could have serious consequences. A helmet placed on your head (not inside your backpack) is a must!
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Black Diamond Momentum Harness
Another must-have on a via ferrata route is a climbing harness. A harness works as an anchor point for your via ferrata lanyard. Make sure to try it on first before your trip to ensure it fits snugly without limiting your movements. Aim for a lightweight harness, that will be comfy to wear between the cable-protected sections when you are hiking.
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Shop Men’s on Amazon / Backcountry (US) / Bergfreunde (Europe)
Edelrid, Camp or Black Diamond Via Ferrata Lanyard
A via ferrata lanyard connects the climber and their harness to the cables along the route. Its two arms and a hidden extra coil work as an energy absorption system in case of a fall, by reducing the stress on the climber. The two carabiners at the end of the lanyard are used to clip into the cable. Make sure the carabiners are equipped with the palm squeeze mechanism. It’s the safest and most comfortable.
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Black Diamond Crag Gloves
The gloves are meant to protect your hands from any cuts and scratches you may otherwise get if you haul yourself on the cable without them. Personally, I prefer full-fingered gloves for extra protection against blisters.
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Salewa Wildfire Edge Approach Shoes
My go-to pair of hiking shoes for easier trails or via ferrata, where I don’t need extra ankle support. They provide excellent grip on the rock and are very durable.
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Reeloq Smartphone Securing System
If you want to be able to take great photos on a via ferrata and not worry about losing your phone, Reeloq is the best tool for it. It’s a smartphone securing system, that will allow you to use your phone on any of your adventures. This has been a great addition to my tool arsenal. When you order Reeloq through my link you will receive 10% discount.
Shop on: REELOQ (Europe only)
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If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below!
This post is super helpful, thanks for all the info.
Do you think it’s safe for me to do it alone? I have beginner level experience with easy climbs.
Do you recommend any guides there? Thank you!
Hi Gabriela. There are plenty of guiding companies in Cortina D’Ampezzo that often take their clients to this via ferrata. Whether it is safe to do it alone, is something you can only answer yourself. I am always a big advocate of venturing into the mountains with a partner.