The Dolomites are packed with trails, but these three deliver the biggest views for the effort: a turquoise lake, the famous three towers, and a jagged-peak viewpoint that takes under half an hour to reach. Here's how each one feels on the ground, and how to fit them together.
01 HIKE 1 OF 3Lago di Sorapis
Sorapis is a bright turquoise lake surrounded by mountains, and the colour is unreal.
It's a fairly rough hike to the lake, with lots of incline, rocky paths and tree roots to navigate. If you're a regular hiker in good shape, I'd rate it moderate difficulty. Otherwise, it could be hard for some people.
There are also a few narrow sections of the trail with a bit of exposure, but they have metal handrails to hold, so it's never crazy or dangerous. I felt very safe the whole time.
Unfortunately, Sorapis is a very popular hike, so it can be a bit awkward passing people going the other direction at narrow sections, and that makes it a bit slower going down on the way back.
That also means the parking fills up quickly at Passo Tre Croci, where the hike starts, so you may have to park somewhere down the hill, which will add some extra time to the hike. Start very early if possible, so you can get a parking spot and avoid the worst crowds. Besides, morning is the best time to photograph the lake!
Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The main trail at Tre Cime is family friendly and doable for most people, with just the right amount of challenge.
For a longer hike, you can take an optional detour to Rifugio Antonio Locatelli and the twin lakes of Laghi dei Piani. A lot of people do that.
If you're a photographer, don't forget to check out the ponds near the hut at Malga Langalm. Those can be nice for capturing reflections of the three towers!
03 HIKE 3 OF 3Cadini di Misurina
This is another nice hike that starts from Rifugio Auronzo, in the same parking lot as Tre Cime di Lavaredo. The same entry rules apply: you need to get a parking reservation or else take the bus.
There's plenty of time to do both hikes in the same day, if you'd like. I'd recommend doing Cadini first, since it's shorter, and then Tre Cime afterwards.
The hike to Cadini only takes less than half an hour, but it feels longer just because it's mostly uphill. It has gotten very popular because of the amazing viewpoint. It's like a natural platform with elevated views of the jagged mountains.
During high season, there's usually a long line to take pictures at the main viewpoint, but thankfully you can get great panoramic views anywhere along the trail, and it's pretty similar to what you see at the viewpoint. This is a short hike with lots of bang for the buck!
Start early, and do Cadini before Tre Cime
Parking at Passo Tre Croci fills up fast, and Cadini and Tre Cime share the Rifugio Auronzo lot, which needs a parking reservation or the bus. Go early, do the shorter Cadini hike first, then Tre Cime in the same day.
What makes it smoother
- Sturdy hiking shoes: Sorapis has rocky paths, tree roots and steep sections.
- Book the Rifugio Auronzo parking reservation (or plan the bus) for Tre Cime and Cadini.
- Arrive at Passo Tre Croci early for Sorapis, or expect an extra walk from the lower parking.
- Bring a camera: morning light is best at the lake, and the Malga Langalm ponds reflect the three towers.
