Lake Sorapis (Lago di Sorapis)

Lake Sorapis (Lago di Sorapis) is one of the most photographed glacial lakes in the Dolomites, a pool of extraordinary milky-turquoise water cupped in a rocky amphitheatre beneath the Sorapis peaks, near Cortina d'Ampezzo just over the regional border. The classic approach is an out-and-back of roughly 12 kilometres with around 500 metres of climbing on path 215, starting from Passo Tre Croci at 1,805 metres on the SR48 between Cortina and Misurina, reached by car or summer bus. The trail traverses the forested and then rocky mountainside, climbing steadily before a short but genuinely exposed section secured by fixed cables and metal ladders, where sure footing and a head for heights are needed; this stretch is the route's only real difficulty and is straightforward in dry conditions but slippery when wet. Beyond it the path reaches the lake and the lakeside Rifugio Vandelli, which serves food and drink, with the milky-blue water set against the grey towers of the Sorapis group. The colour comes from glacial rock flour suspended in the meltwater and is most intense in bright midday light, though water levels and colour vary through the season and the lake can shrink markedly by late summer. The terrain is otherwise rocky mountain path with some loose ground, making this a moderate rather than easy hike despite its popularity, and proper boots and poles help. The return retraces the same route to Passo Tre Croci. The season runs from late June to early October, once the high cabled section is clear of snow and ice. Because the lake is so popular, an early start gives quieter paths and easier passage on the narrow cabled traverse. With its unforgettable colour, dramatic setting and a touch of via-cordata excitement, Lake Sorapis is one of the most rewarding lake hikes in the Dolomites for sure-footed walkers.