09/10/2026
One of the World’s Most Beautiful Mountain Walks — 10 Stops in the Dolomites
If you're visiting the Dolomites, this is one walk I would seriously consider adding to your itinerary. The Tre Cime di Lavaredo circuit takes you around three enormous limestone peaks, past mountain refuges, alpine lakes, dramatic valleys and some of the most spectacular scenery in Italy.
The classic circular route is approximately 9.5–10 km and takes around 4–5 hours, including short stops. It starts and finishes at Rifugio Auronzo, so you don't need to arrange transport between different trailheads.
Here are the 10 places you'll encounter along the way, in walking order.
1. Rifugio Auronzo — Start at approximately 2,330 metres above sea level, with incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Follow trail 101 toward Rifugio Lavaredo. The first section is relatively gentle and follows a broad gravel path.
2. Ca****la degli Alpini — A small mountain chapel surrounded by towering rocky peaks. It's a beautiful place for photographs and a reminder of the history of these mountains during the First World War.
3. Rifugio Lavaredo — A traditional mountain refuge beneath the southern side of the Tre Cime. This is a good place for a short break before the climb toward Forcella Lavaredo.
4. Forcella Lavaredo — One of the most spectacular moments of the entire hike. At approximately 2,454 metres, the famous northern faces of the Tre Cime suddenly come into view. Take your time here because the panorama is extraordinary.
5. Rifugio Locatelli — Probably the most famous viewpoint on the circuit. From here, you can see the three enormous peaks rising above the surrounding landscape. This is an excellent place to stop for lunch or photographs.
6. Laghi dei Piani — Two beautiful small alpine lakes near Rifugio Locatelli, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. You can admire them from viewpoints near the refuge or take an optional detour toward the lakes.
7. Rienza Valley — Follow trail 105 as it descends toward the valley below the northern walls of the Tre Cime. This section offers a completely different perspective of the mountains, but it involves a substantial descent followed by another climb.
8. Col Forcellina — After climbing out of the valley, you'll reach a beautiful mountain passage with wonderful views across the rocky landscape. This section is less crowded than the approach to Rifugio Locatelli.
9. Malga Langalm — A small alpine hut surrounded by meadows, with beautiful views of the western side of the Tre Cime. Nearby you'll also find small mountain pools that can reflect the peaks on a clear, calm day.
10. Forcella del Col di Mezzo — The final mountain pass offers spectacular views toward the Cadini di Misurina and surrounding peaks. From here, continue along trail 105 to return to Rifugio Auronzo and complete the circuit.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Best time: July to September generally offers the most reliable hiking conditions. June can also be beautiful, but snow may remain on the trails. Early October is possible in suitable weather, although snow, ice and seasonal closures become more likely.
Difficulty: Moderate. The route is well marked, but it isn't a completely flat walk. Expect approximately 400–500 metres of cumulative elevation gain, rocky surfaces, uphill sections and some steeper descents. Proper hiking shoes are strongly recommended.
How long: Allow 4–5 hours for the circuit, or longer if you want a relaxed lunch, plenty of photography stops or the optional lake detour. Start early to avoid the busiest periods and afternoon thunderstorms.
Getting there: The most convenient starting point is Rifugio Auronzo, reached by a seasonal toll road from near Lake Misurina. In 2026, the standard car access and parking charge is €40, and advance online reservation is required. Shuttle buses are another option during the operating season.
What to bring: Even during summer, temperatures above 2,300 metres can be surprisingly cold. Carry a waterproof jacket, warm layer, water, snacks, sunscreen and a fully charged phone with an offline hiking map.
Food and water: Rifugio Auronzo, Rifugio Lavaredo and Rifugio Locatelli provide opportunities for refreshments when operating, but opening periods depend on the season and conditions. Don't rely on every mountain hut being open.
Weather: Check the mountain forecast, not just the weather in Cortina or Dobbiaco. Thunderstorms, strong winds, low cloud and sudden temperature changes can make this hike considerably more difficult. Avoid exposed sections during storms.
If you don't want to complete the entire circuit, walk from Rifugio Auronzo to Forcella Lavaredo and return the same way. You'll still experience one of the most famous views of the Tre Cime, with a much shorter walk.
One final piece of advice: don't underestimate this hike because it's famous and popular. You're still walking through high-altitude mountain terrain, where weather conditions can change quickly.
But on a clear summer day, with the enormous peaks rising above the alpine landscape, it's easy to understand why Tre Cime di Lavaredo is considered one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in Europe.
Save this route for your next trip to the Dolomites.
