The hike to Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the Italian Dolomites is famous and loved by many. It's a moderate hike offering stunning views, making it a fantastic way to experience some of the Dolomites' most magnificent mountains.
Lykkers, here’s everything you need to know about this hike.
<h3>Key Information</h3>
<b>Length:</b> The hike is 9.7 kilometers long.
<b>Elevation Gain:</b> It climbs 476 meters.
<b>Time:</b> It typically takes about 4 hours to complete.
<b>Difficulty:</b> The trail is suitable for beginners and intermediates. It's a great day hike with some steep sections. Families and children who enjoy walking will also find it enjoyable!
<h3>How to Get There</h3>
<b>By car:</b> Start your journey at Refugio Auronzo, easily accessible from Cortina with a 30-minute drive. The roads are winding, typical for the Dolomites. There's a parking fee of about 30 euros, and although there's ample parking, spaces fill up fast!
<b>By public transportation:</b> During summer (mid-June to mid-September), take the 30/31 bus from Cortina to Tre Cime. This bus also passes the trailhead for the Lago di Sorapis hike, allowing you to combine both hikes in a single (long) day if you're pressed for time.
For off-season visits, public transport options are limited, so renting a car is highly recommended.
<h3>How to do the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike</h3>
From the parking lot at Rifugio Auronzo, follow the wide path downhill for stunning views right from the start. While the hike can be completed in under four hours, take extra time for photos and exploring other trails nearby.
Continue along the path around Tre Cime. After passing a chapel, a gentle uphill leads to a beautiful viewpoint near the base of Tre Cime.
Descend carefully, then ascend gently towards Rifugio Locatelli. Take a short, steep path on your right to reach the rifugio, known for its spectacular view.
After enjoying the scenery and resting, return to the main path.
Follow the path around Tre Cime until you spot a field of rock cairns, signaling you're near the parking lot where you started.
<h3>The Best Time to do the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike</h3>
We recommend doing this hike in October or November when there are fewer tourists. However, keep in mind that during these months: A) You'll need to rent a car for easy access to Tre Cime, and B) The weather tends to be rainier. If you can find a weekend with good weather, October or November are definitely the best times to visit.
<h3>Where to Stay</h3>
<b>Cortina:</b> It is the ideal base for the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike and other nearby trails. The town is charming and renowned for its upscale atmosphere, especially during ski season. It's the top choice for visiting during the off-season. The staff are friendly and professional. Expect to pay around $380 per night.
<b>Rifugio Auronzo:</b> This mountain hut is located at the base of Tre Cime. It's a great place to stay if you plan on exploring many hikes in the area and want to experience beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
We've covered everything you need to know about the Tre Cime Di Lavaredo hike, from its stunning views to practical tips on getting there and where to stay.
Now, we'd love to hear from you! What are your thoughts on this iconic hike? Have you been inspired to plan a visit? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below. Happy hiking!