How To Hike Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop: The Best Short Hike in the Dolomites (2023 Update)
Here's everything you need to know before hiking the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop, the best short hike in the Dolomites.
Includes when to visit, where to stay, fees and hiking tips, things to see at Drei Zinnen, and more.
There they stood; the Three Peaks of Lavaredo (Tre Cime di Lavaredo / Drei Zinnen) in all their raw and rugged glory.
Despite the bone-chilling wind and ever present afternoon clouds circling the peaks, they’re every bit as beautiful as we’d imagined.
Our first visit to the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo had been a long time coming.
It’d been years since we stumbled across a photo of the imposing Dolomiti peaks while scrolling Instagram; I distinctly remember turning to Mim and saying “we have to visit here”, such was the impact of this single, square photo beaming from my phone screen.
And there we finally were, wide grins across our faces, staring in awe at the wildly beautiful scene in front of us. Rising from the scraggly rock below, the jagged monoliths of the famed three peaks loom high above.
The surrounding peaks of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Dolomites, equally as impressive, tease and flirt with their visual grandeur, while the turquoise mountain lakes, verdant alpine plains and endless valleys provide a backdrop to one of the most beautiful natural sights we’ve ever seen.
It’s a breathtaking sight, and one we’ve now been fortunate enough to witness a number of times in the years since that first visit.
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike, all 10kms of it, is the best way to sample the epic, iconic landscape in a short, manageable hike (read our guide to the best short hikes in the Dolomites).
Our detailed guide to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike provides you with everything you need to know to enjoy this natural marvel, and how to avoid the mass of tourists during the peak summer months.
HOW TO GET TO TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO
DRIVE TO RIFUGIO AURONZO CARPARK VIA THE TOLL ROAD
The start of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is Rifugio Auronzo, which is behind a toll road that closes during the evening hours (you can still enter by purchasing a ticket from the ticket machine at the toll booth).
To get to Tre Cime di Lavaredo/Drei Zinnen and the start of the Cadini di Misurina hike via car, you’ll need to follow the SS49 road that heads through South Tyrol towards the town of Misurina.
The closest towns to Tre Cime di Lavaredo/Cadini di Misurina are:
Cortina d’Ampezzo | 23 km, 40 mins
Dobbiaco/Toblach | 23.6kms, 35 mins
Sesto/Sexten | 38.3kms, 53 mins
Bolzano/Bozen | 152km, 2.5 hours
From here, take the toll road towards Rifugio Auronzo, passing the picturesque Lago d’Antorno.
About halfway, you’ll reach the toll booth where you’ll be required to pay the toll/entrance fee of € 30 ( €45 per campervan - opening hours: 7am - 7pm - further information below).
Although the car park (map provided here) is large, in the peak of summer it can fill up very quickly, so arrive early, or take a shuttle bus from your hotel or any of the surrounding towns. There is now a digital sign that tells you the amount of car park spaces left when entering the toll both. When this is at zero, you are no longer permitted to enter, and will have to hike in from Lago d’Antorno carpark.
WHAT TIME OF YEAR DOES THE TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO TOLL ROAD OPEN?
Due to the distinct mountainous seasons, the Tre Cime toll road only opens once the winter snows have melted away. This generally occurs between the end of May and early June, and continues through to the end of October/early November, depending on snow cover.
If visiting at the start or end of the hiking season, it’s best to check whether the toll road is open by contacting the Auronzo tourism office - iat@comune.auronzo.bl.it
WHAT TIME OF DAY DOES THE TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO TOLL ROAD OPEN?
The opening hours of the Tre Cime toll road (Rifugio Auronzo toll road) are from 6 am - 8 pm
If you arrive pre- 6 am, which is essential if you plan on shooting sunrise in the summer, you may still enter - just press the button to obtain a ticket and pay the toll when you exit.
You may also exit freely after 8 pm.
If the road is icy or under snow, you may not be able to enter.
CAR RENTAL IN THE DOLOMITES
We highly recommend hiring a car for the duration of your stay in the Dolomites (read our 7-day Dolomites road trip itinerary here!) - it makes reaching all the wonderful natural attractions very easy and gives you far more freedom than public transport.
We generally use RentalCars.com to book rentals - check prices and availability for Italy here
PRO TIP | GET THERE EARLY! If you’d like to avoid the €30 toll-road fee, you can hike to Rifugio Auronzo from the carpark at Lago d’Antorno. The hike will take around 1.5 hours, and is quite strenuous, with an election rise of 500m.
BUS TO RIFUGIO AURONZO
A way to avoid the costly toll fee, catch the shuttle bus from Cortina, Dobbiaco, or Misurina to Rifugio Auronzo to commence the Cadini di Misurina hike.
Be warned though, if you plan to stay for sunset to get the best photography conditions, you will miss the return bus, so maybe only take this option if you just want to witness the incredible views, rather than photograph them.
FROM DOBBIACO/SAN CANDIDO
The shuttle bus 444 leaves from Dobbiaco/Toblach to Rifugio Auronzo up to three times an hour during summer, and costs € 15 (round trip). If you hold a Südtirol pass, the shuttle is included.
FROM CORTINA D’AMPEZZO TO RIFUGIO AURONZO
Catch the 445 bus towards Dobbiaco/Toblach. Switch to the 444 bus in Lago di Landro Dobbiaco for the rest of the trip. This bus ride also costs € 15 (round trip). If you hold a Südtirol pass, the shuttle is included.
The buses commence service in June, when the hiking season starts, and run daily throughout the summer until October. For more information on bus timetables, click here.
TIP | A lot of hotels in the region provide shuttle bus services which may be included in your room fee (Südtirol pass). Enquire with the reception when checking in to see if this option is available.
TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO HIKE | A STEP BY STEP GUIDE
The 10 - 11km Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop is an easy/moderate hike which should take around 3-4 hours to complete.
That being said, we recommend taking your time and exploring some of the various attractions and things to do on the hike (see our tips below!), as well as stopping for lunch and a well earned beer at one of the picturesque Rifugios on the way.
OVERVIEW OF THE TRE CIME LOOP
#1 Rifugio Aurenzo to Forcella Lavaredo Viewpoint // 40mins - 2.2km
#2 Forcella Lavaredo to Rifugio Locatelli // 40mins - 2.2kms
#3 Rifugio Locatelli - Malga Langalm // 1.5 hour - 3.6kms
#4 Malga Langalm - Rifugio Aurenzo (carpark) // 45mins - 2.6kms
The route is extremely well signposted, and is clearly shown on Google Maps and Maps.me. If you do encounter any issues, ask a fellow hiker for directions.
#1 RIFUGIO AURENZO TO FORCELLA LAVAREDO VIEWPOINT | 40MINS - 2.2KM
Starting at Rifugio Aurenzo, follow the wide gravel path (101) that flows gently east towards Cappella degli Alpini, a quaint alpine church, before extending on to the first of many picturesque mountain refuges, Rifugio Lavaredo.
To the left, the three peaks tower above, while on the right, the jagged Dolomiti peaks in the distance.
Although it’s tempting to stop for a beer, we recommend continuing straight on towards Forcella Lavaredo, one of the best viewpoints on the entire Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop. From Rifugio Lavaredo, turn left and follow the 101 path upwards towards the viewpoint.
Looming imposingly above are the jagged peaks of Lavaredo. We recommend stopping here for a moment or two and taking in the views over the valley and towards Rifugio Locatelli (also known as Drei Zinnen Hutte).
#2 FORCELLA LAVAREDO TO RIFUGIO LOCATELLI | 40MINS - 2.2KMS
From Forcella Lavaredo, the hike meanders towards the most iconic rifugio in the Dolomites, Rifugio Locatelli / Drei Zinnen Hutte.
There are a number of paths you can take from Forcella Lavaredo towards Rifugio Locatelli. You can either choose to follow the wider and more comfortable lower path (continuation of the 101 path), which drops down into the valley under the three peaks, or you can join the upper path, which is cut into the rockfalls of Croda Passaporto and Monte Paterno, and provides an altogether more thrilling experience.
Your hiking skills/experience will determine which path you take, but if you’re steady on your feet and up for a little challenge, we recommend the upper path for a more thrilling experience and epic views. Note that there were certain parts of the path that had fallen away, which meant some scrambling was required at times.
Once you’ve arrived at Rifugio Locatelli, stop for a break on the sun terrace to enjoy a beer and some food, while overlooking the impressive Tre Cime peaks. Although the rifugio isn’t known for its fine dining, it does serve traditional mountain food such as soups and dumplings.
If you’ve got time, we recommend exploring the area around Rifugio Locatelli.
There are a number of WW1 bunkers and tunnels which are exciting to explore and offer some interesting perspectives on the three peaks. The easy hike down to Laghi dei Piani, the two picturesque lakes just below the Rifugio, is also worth the detour.
Also, if you want to spend more time in the area, or you’re keen to catch a glimpse of Drei Zinnen/Tre Cime in all its splendour at sunrise, you can also stay at Rifugio Locatelli overnight during the season then simply continue on with this hiking trail the following day.
For more information, check their website here.
#3 RIFUGIO LOCATELLI - MALGA LANGALM | 1.5 HOUR - 3.6KMS
From Rifugio Locatelli, follow the path (102) down into the valley in front of you, stopping occasionally to take in the three peaks, which stand imposingly above.
This is where the hardest section of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike occurs. The path follows a seriously steep incline back up the ravine, continuing for what seems like an eternity. Fortunately, the incline eventually does end at the junction of many pathways.
Join path 105 towards Malga Langalm rifugio, crisscrossing the flowing creek of Sorgenti del Rienza before arriving at Malga Langalm.
If you’ve not eaten at this point, we recommend stopping here - it’s the most relaxed and comfortable rifugio on the hike, and the perfect place to enjoy some summer sun and a beer or two.
#4 MALGA LANGALM - RIFUGIO AURENZO (CARPARK) | 45MINS - 2.6KMS
The final part of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is fairly easy, following path 105 on a slight incline around the three peaks towards Forcella del Col de Mèdo viewpoint. From here you can see down into the Puster Valley, and also towards Misurina Lake (in the Belluno province).
From the viewpoint, it’s a 10-minute walk to the carpark and the end of the hike.
the best of sudtirol | 19 amazing things to do in south tyrol
TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO MAP
The paths for the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike are well marked and clear, however we do recommending downloading our map below just in case.
To save our map, click the map below to download it, and save to your places - maps in your Google account.
THINGS TO SEE & DO ON THE TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO HIKE
Beyond the incredible natural beauty of the Dolomites, there are a few attractions we recommend you visit during your Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike.
THE INCREDIBLE CADINI DI MISURINA VIEWPOINT
Located opposite the equally imposing Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cadini di Misurina is a group of mountain peaks that soar like sharp rock monoliths from the surrounding valley below.
What separates them from the rest of the Dolomiti mountains is their striking formations, boundless layers and grandness - they stand strong, big and beautiful, changing their appearance through each hour of the day.
They’re absolutely essential to witness, so we recommend visiting post-Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike to watch the sunset.
READ | Our guide to Cadini di Misurina viewpoint
WW1 BUNKERS // GALLERIE DI MONTE PATERNO
During World War 1, the front line between Austria and Italy ran through the Tre Cime peaks and surrounding area. This was one of Europe’s most fiercely-fought and bloody battlegrounds, in pretty treacherous conditions.
As a result, there are a number of fortifications, trenches, tunnels and other remains from this period.
It’s possible to explore a lot of the tunnels and trenches, which are based the base of Monte Paterno and can be accessed near Rifugio Locatelli.
You can explore parts of the tunnels yourself, or as part of a guided Via Ferrata. The most famous of all the trenches in this region sits above Rifugio Locatelli and has an incredible view overlooking the three peaks.
As history buffs, being able to walk through the tunnels was both fascinating and eye-opening.
You can also read more about the Italian frontline experience in Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms (Hemingway was actually injured during a mortar explosion in the Dolomites too).
LAGHI DEI PIANI
Located just below Rifugio Locatelli, Laghi dei Piani are a set of alpine lakes that, during sunrise or sunset, provide the most beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountain ranges.
These are only a short hike from the Rifugio, and definitely worth a detour off the main Tre Cime di Lavaredo hiking loop.
CAPPELLA DEGLI ALPINI
The old chapel at the foot of Tre Cime, in between Rifugio Auronzo and Rifugio Lavaredo, might just be the most picturesque church in the world.
With sweeping views across the Dolomites, it’s also a photographers heaven, providing the perfect focal point to an epic landscape scene.
FORCELLA LAVAREDO VIEWPOINT
Forcella Lavaredo is one of the best viewpoints on the entire Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop.
The jagged peaks of Tre Cime loom imposingly above, while to the right is the dramatic Monte Paterno mountain. It’s the perfect place to stop and take it all in.
ALTERNATIVE TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO VIEWPOINT
If you’re short on time, or aren't willing to pay for the toll road to Rifugio Auronzo, there’s an alternative to witness the majestic peaks of Tre Cime (Drei Zinnen).
Landro, just north of Lago di Dobbiaco, is home to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo viewpoint, which has sweeping panoramic views over the valley towards the north cafes of the three peaks.
The viewpoint has an architecturally designed platform which focuses the eyes directly onto the Three Peaks, and provides an overview of the first summit of Tre Cime by Paul Grohmann in 1869.
ENJOY LUNCH IN A MOUNTAIN HUT
Even in the mountain huts and rifugio, seasonal, exceptional farm-to-table food is served up, and Tre Cime is no different.
Two rifugio we suggest stopping at to enjoy delicious local fare are Rifugio Locatelli (Drei Zinnen Hutte), Malga Langalm.
Both serve up generous mountain meals that comfort and soothe aching muscles at the end of a long day outside - all accompanied by brilliant local wine, or beer, of course!
Rifugio Locatelli has a large indoor restaurant, as well as outdoor seating, making it the ideal place to enjoy a meal, given the crowds that descend on the hike. The barley soup is always a winner, as are the bread dumplings mixed with local cheese. They’re delicious, and hearty as hell. Finish off with a sweat treat - either apple strudel, or kaiserschmarren.
Alternatively, stop for a sweet treat at Malga Langalm and enjoy the outdoor terrace with imposing views of Tre Cime.
TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO PLANNING ESSENTIALS
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HIKE TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO (DREI ZINNEN)?
Tre Cime di Lavaredo / Drei Zinnen is an icon of the Dolomites (and one of the best things to do in the Dolomites), and therefore gets extremely busy during July and August both with Italian and German holidaymakers as well as foreign tourists. We’d avoid visiting during the period (if you can).
We’ve visited Tre Cime di Lavaredo twice, both times at the end of the peak summer months, during September and October.
September and October is the best time to hike Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
Firstly, the crowds are far smaller than in late July and August, when the holidaymakers arrive in their droves. Although you won’t have the trails entirely to yourself, you will be able to enjoy the hike at your own pace and enjoy the environment.
We also recommend arriving at Rifugio Auronzo early to commence the hike before the tour buses and hiking groups arrive, and to avoid the bright midday sun (a photographer’s nightmare!).
Secondly, the sunrise and sunset times are far closer to the entry/exit times for the tollgate. That means better opportunity for better light (unless you stay overnight in a Refugio, or hike in from Sexten/Sesto).
If you are travelling to the region during the busy summer months, try to avoid the crowds by arriving at Tre Cime as early as possible, and commencing the hike before 8 am.
TIP | Hike Tre Cime di Lavaredo during June, or September/October, and arrive early (8 am) to avoid crowds
Dolomiti Dreamin’ | Our 7-day dolomites road trip itinerary
WHERE TO STAY NEAR TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO
Looking for where to stay in the Dolomites and South Tyrol? We’ve written a huge guide on where to stay in the Dolomites (it’s seriously huge!).
From luxury hotels to airbnbs, our guide has your Dolomites accommodation well and truly sorted.
There are plenty of accommodation options around Tre Cime Di Lavaredo in the surrounding valleys and towns, as well as a few rifugio options within the national park. We suggest staying in nearby Cortina d’Ampezzo, or Sesto/Sexten.
Below are the best options, including our personal recommendations:
BERG HOTEL, SESTO/SEXTEN | On our second visit to Tre Cime, we stayed at beautiful incredible Berg Hotel in Sesto, in the foothills of the Dolomites.
The large rooms, incredible food and wellness options made it the perfect place to call home for a few days road tripping through the region. Check prices and book the Berg Hotel, Sexten
HOTEL MEUBLE OASI, CORTINA D’AMPEZZO | For a cheaper option closer to Tre Cime, Hotel Meuble Oasi in Cortina d’Ampezzo is a great alternative. Breakfast is included in your room cost, and the location in the centre of town is great for using public transport. Check prices and book Hotel Meuble Oasi
RIFUGIOS
ANTONIO LOCATELLI | We spent a night in this famous rifugio on our first visit to Tre Cime di Lavaredo and while it’s quite run-down, it’s the perfect place to explore, and photograph during sunrise/sunset, and overnight (astrophotography). Half board in a dormitory (includes bed, three-course dinner, breakfast) is €60 per night, while a bed only is €26 per night. Book Rifugio Locatelli here
RIFUGIO AURONZO | We’ve not personally stayed at Rifugio Auronzo, but it’s position at the start of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop is perfect for those wanting an sunrise hike around the monoliths, or photography missions in the surrounding area. Half-board in a dorm costs €50 per night, while a bed only is €22 per night. Book Rifugio Auronzo here
DOLOMITES PACKING ESSENTIALS
Travelling through South Tyrol comes with a unique set of needs. To help you have a comfortable, happy journey, we recommend bringing the following items with you:
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE| THE BEST INVESTMENT WE’VE EVER MADE! We use the Grayl water purification bottles, which allows us to fill up from any water source, anywhere in the world (including train taps!).
BIODEGRADABLE WET WIPES | Keep clean on hikes without destroying the planet!
HAND SANITISER | not something we’d actually recommend normally, but when hiking it can be a bloody great investment
READ | check out our eco-friendly packing guide to travel through Italy consciously and comfortably
OUR TOP DOLOMITES HIKING TIPS
You can’t trust the mountains; that’s our motto when we head out for a hike anywhere in the world.
Truth be told, we’ve managed to enjoy pretty beautiful weather during our time in the Dolomites, however, our guides have told us horror stories of rapidly changing weather and treacherous hiking conditions.
Here are a few tips to help you out:
Pack for four seasons, even in summer. These mountains can be unpredictable so always pack warm gear
Visit in shoulder season to avoid the summer crowds when the hiking paths get super busy
Wear sturdy, strong hiking boots as the rocky paths can be slippy at times
The Dolomites hiking pathways are well-marked with signposts and red and white markers. If in doubt, use Google Maps or Maps.me
You’ll never be far from good food and beer, so embrace it! It’s Italy after all
You can sleep in the mountains but need to book rifugios well in advance
Always travel with travel insurance (see below). The unexpected can, and does, happen in the mountains and it's always better to be prepared.
Smile, nod and say hello (in whatever language) to your fellow hikers
RESPONSIBLE DOLOMITES HIKING TIPS
The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for their dramatic peaks and pristine natural environment, but in recent years have become even more popular through Instagram and other social media apps.
This has led to some pretty bad behaviour in and around the area, as well as the dreaded impacts of over-tourism.
Therefore, even when enjoying a short hike in the region, it’s important to remember a few key rules:
THE DOLOMITES AREN’T YOUR INSTAGRAM PLAYGROUND | The Dolomites are an incredible natural phenomenon perfect for photography and Instagram, but that doesn’t mean you have free reign to break rules, ruin natural environments and use it as your playground (read our responsible travel tips here).
Although we’ve not been able to find adequate information about flying drones in the Dolomites, respect the usual rules of flying and be super careful.
BRING A REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE | There is no need for a modern traveller to buy bottled water, ever. Purchase a water filtration + purification bottle (like our faves from The Grayl) and you will literally never need to purchase bottled water again.
BUY | We use the Grayl GEOPRESS every day, every trip we take!
TREK AT THE TAIL ENDS OF THE SEASON | Dolomites hiking trails can get extremely busy in the height of summer, so we suggest trekking either side of the peak periods to avoid contributing to over-tourism and environmental degradation.
It’s also a good idea to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds, which in our opinion makes the experience far better.
RESPECT THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT AND CULTURE | This part of Italy, which borders South Tyrol and Verona communes, has a unique and rich culture, steeped in religious and historical significance.
Around Tre Cime di Lavaredo (the Three Peaks) and other parts of the Dolomites, historical WW1 battles were fought and the remains can be seen everywhere.
Respect these sights, and do not under any circumstance, remove anything from the national park.
DON’T LITTER | Whatever you do, don’t litter in this pristine natural environment. Where you can, avoid plastic altogether on your trek, and if you can’t, carry it out of the national park with you.
PICK UP ANY TRASH YOU SEE | Although we (thankfully) haven’t seen much rubbish on the trails that we’ve seen while hiking in the Dolomites, the odd piece can still be found. If you come across rubbish on your trek, collect it in a tote bag and take it off the trails with you to dispose of it properly later.
The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for their dramatic peaks and pristine natural environment, but in recent years have become even more popular through Instagram and other social media apps.
This has led to some pretty bad behaviour in and around the area, as well as the dreaded impacts of over-tourism.
Therefore, even when enjoying a short hike in the region, it’s important to remember a few key rules:
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN THE DOLOMITES
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out of pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
PLANNING A TRIP TO THE DOLOMITES SOON?
Check out these essential posts to help you have the best trip ever:
DOLOMITES | Top things to do in the Dolomites, Our 7-day road trip itinerary for the Dolomites, where to stay in the Dolomites, how to get to the Dolomites, and A guide to Val di Funes
HIKES TO REMEMBER | 7 of the best day hikes in the Dolomites, including the famous Tre Cime De Lavaredo loop, Lago di Sorapis, Cadini di Misurina
SOUTH TYROL | 19 amazing things to do in South Tyrol during Summer, plus everything we love about the beautiful South Tyrol region
THE LAKES OF THE DOLOMITES | How to visit Lago di Carezza, our guide to Lago di Braies, and Lago di Sorapis
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Grab the presets we use on every photo here
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
We hope this post was super helpful in letting you experience the best of Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Let us know your experience in the comments, and share any tips for your fellow travellers.
PLAN YOUR DOLOMITES ADVENTURES WITH OUR GUIDES
Some of the links on this Tre Cime di Lavaredo hiking guide are affiliate links.
If you choose to purchase using these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please know that by using these affiliate links, you're directly supporting The Common Wanderer to stay wandering, the running costs of the site, and our ability to provide you with free content to help you on your travels.
That, and you're officially a legend.