6 Must-Do Day Hikes in the Dolomites: A Guide for All Levels

From the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo to the peaceful Lake Braies, there's a hike for everyone in this UNESCO World Heritage site. The Dolomites, a mountain range in northeastern Italy, are a hiker's paradise. With their dramatic peaks, lush valleys, and charming alpine villages, the Dolomites offer an abundance of opportunities for day hikes.

Our Picks Overview:

1. Seceda and the Odle Group: This popular hike offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

2. Alpe di Siusi: Europe's largest high-altitude alpine meadow, and it's a great place to hike if you're looking for a more leisurely option.

3. Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop: This more challenging hike is worth the effort for the views.

4. Lagazuoi Tunnels and Mount Lagazoi: This unique hike combines history and nature.

5. Lake Braies: This beautiful lake is surrounded by mountains.

6. Cinque Torri Hike: Explore this amazing WW2 open air museum, surrounded by stunning rock formations and 360 views.

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1. Seceda and the Odle Group

• Duration: Approximately 4-6 hours (round trip)
• Distance: Around 6.2 miles (10 kilometers)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,640 feet (500 meters)
• Starting Point: Ortisei

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Seceda and the Odle Group, known for their striking rock formations and breathtaking vistas. Start your hike in Ortisei and take a cable car to the Seceda plateau. From there, a well-marked trail leads you through alpine meadows and ancient forests, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The imposing Odle mountains dominate the landscape, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience.

2. Alpe di Siusi

• Duration: Varies depending on the chosen trail (typically 2-4 hours)
• Distance: Various trails available, ranging from 3.1 to 9.3 miles (5 to 15 kilometers)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on the chosen route
• Elevation Gain: Varies depending on the trail
• Starting Point: Compatsch

Alpe di Siusi, Europe's largest high-altitude alpine meadow, is a natural wonder waiting to be explored. Begin your adventure in the village of Compatsch and follow the trails that wind through this vast and enchanting landscape. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of blooming wildflowers, green pastures, and grazing cattle. The views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks, including the iconic Sassolungo and Sciliar, are simply breathtaking.

3. Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop

• Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
• Distance: Around 6.2 miles (10 kilometers)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,312 feet (400 meters)
• Starting Point: Rifugio Auronzo

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is a must-do for any visitor to the Dolomites. This circular trail takes you around the iconic three peaks, offering unparalleled views of their majestic spires. Start at Rifugio Auronzo and make your way along the well-maintained path that traverses the rugged terrain. Marvel at the sheer beauty of the surrounding landscape, including the emerald-colored Lake Misurina. This hike is a true feast for the senses.

4. Lagazuoi Tunnels and Mount Lagazuoi

• Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
• Distance: About 4.3 miles (7 kilometers)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,476 feet (450 meters)
• Starting Point: Passo Falzarego

Immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of the Dolomites with a hike to the Lagazuoi Tunnels and Mount Lagazuoi. Begin at Passo Falzarego and take a cable car to the summit of Mount Lagazuoi. Explore the historic tunnels that were once used during World War I and learn about the region's rich past. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and alpine lakes. The combination of history and stunning vistas makes this hike truly unforgettable.

5. Lake Braies Circuit

• Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
• Distance: Around 5.6 miles (9 kilometers)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Starting Point: Lake Braies

Nestled amidst a fairytale-like setting, Lake Braies (Pragser Wildsee) is a jewel of the Dolomites. Begin your hike at the shores of the emerald-green lake and follow the well-marked trail that encircles its perimeter. Take in the awe-inspiring views of the towering mountains reflected in the calm waters. As you meander through forests and meadows, you'll be captivated by the peaceful ambiance of this enchanting location.

6. Cinque Torri Hike

• Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
• Distance: Around 5 miles
• Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
• Elevation Gain:  980-1312 feet (300-400 meters)
• Starting Point: Bai de Dones chairlift

The Cinque Torri loop hike is a popular and scenic trail that takes you through the beautiful Dolomite mountain range. The "Cinque Torri" translates to "Five Towers," and the trail is named after the five rocky towers that stand prominently in the area. The length of the hike can vary depending on the specific route you choose and where you start from, but it is generally around 5-6 kilometers (3-4 miles) long. The hike offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Dolomite mountains, including the distinctive Cinque Torri rock formations. You'll also pass by lush alpine meadows, peaceful forests, and several other rock formations that make this area a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Ditch the crowds:

Here are two additional off-the-beaten-path day hikes in the Dolomites that are relatively lesser-known:

Val di Funes (Villnöss) and the Geisler Group:

• Duration: Approximately 4-6 hours (round trip)
• Distance: Around 12-15 kilometers
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 700-800 meters
• Starting Point: St. Magdalena (accessible by car or public transportation)

Located in the picturesque Val di Funes valley, this hike offers stunning views of the lesser-explored Geisler Group. Start your hike from the village of St. Magdalena and follow the trail that winds through peaceful meadows, dense forests, and alpine pastures. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the towering Geisler peaks and the idyllic valley below. This hike provides a serene and secluded experience away from the more crowded trails.

Rosengarten Massif:

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, depending on the chosen route
• Elevation Gain: Varies depending on the trail, approximately 800-1000 meters
• Starting Point: Tires (accessible by car or public transportation)
• Duration: Varies depending on the chosen trail (typically 4-6 hours)Distance: Various trails available, ranging from 10-15 kilometers

The Rosengarten Massif, also known as Catinaccio, is a hidden gem in the Dolomites. Begin your hike from the village of Tires and choose from several trails that lead you into this enchanting mountain range. The rugged peaks, including the iconic Vajolet Towers, offer a dramatic backdrop as you traverse alpine meadows and rocky terrain. The solitude and tranquility of the Rosengarten Massif provide a unique and immersive hiking experience.

Get Hiking!

The Dolomites offer a myriad of day hikes that showcase the region's natural beauty, rich history, and diverse landscapes. Whether you're seeking breathtaking panoramas, serene alpine meadows, or a glimpse into the past, these five must-do day hikes will leave you with lasting memories. Lace up your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the captivating Dolomites. Happy hiking!

Dolomites Multi day Hiking Packages:

Talk with a travel expert and book your dream trip to the Dolomites. We offer world class multi day hikes such as the Dolomite High Route (Alta Via 1) - 9 Days

and the The Legendary Dolomites Traverse, Ladin Valleys - 7 Days. These hikes can be done in a guided group or as self guided please inquire.