The most iconic hike in the Dolomites, circumnavigating the three legendary rocky spires of Tre Cime di Lavaredo. The trail offers constantly changing views of the peaks from every angle across dramatic alpine scenery. Accessible by road to Rifugio Auronzo (toll €30/car), the circuit is well-marked and suitable for most hikers.
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo circular is the signature day hike of the Veneto Dolomites, looping anti-clockwise around the three vertical limestone spires that give the massif its name, in the Auronzo di Cadore area of Belluno Province. The trailhead is Rifugio Auronzo (2,320m), reached by the toll road from Lago di Misurina (roughly €30 per car, paid at the barrier; the road typically opens late spring and closes with the first heavy snow). A summer bus from Cortina d'Ampezzo and Dobbiaco also serves the rifugio, easing the limited and fast-filling car park. The circuit runs about 9.5km with around 350m of cumulative ascent and takes most walkers three to four hours. From Rifugio Auronzo the path (route 101) traverses an easy gravel track to Rifugio Lavaredo, then climbs to the Forcella Lavaredo saddle, where the famous north faces of the three peaks come into full view. The trail continues to Rifugio Locatelli (Dreizinnenhütte), the classic photo point, before descending past Malga Langalm and contouring back beneath the southern walls to the start. Surfaces are mostly compacted dirt and rocky path with some loose scree on the higher saddles; the route is well-marked and largely without serious exposure, though short steeper pitches reward sure footing. Landmarks include First World War tunnels and gun positions carved into the rock, the small Cappella degli Alpini, and seasonal tarns mirroring the towers. Three staffed refuges along the loop — Auronzo, Lavaredo and Locatelli — provide water, meals and shelter, so carrying litres of water is unnecessary, though weather can turn quickly at altitude. Rifugio Locatelli makes a natural turn-around for those not completing the full circuit.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Auronzo di Cadore, Belluno Province
- Best season
- Late June to early October
Highlights
- North face views at Rifugio Locatelli
- Dramatic limestone towers
- World War I tunnels and memorials
- Alpine flora and fauna
Tips for visiting
- Start before 9am: the toll-road car park at Rifugio Auronzo fills early in July and August, and the summer shuttle bus from Misurina is a reliable alternative.
- Carry layers and a windproof shell even in summer; the Forcella Lavaredo saddle is exposed and afternoon thunderstorms are common.
- Bring sturdy hiking boots for the loose scree near the saddles; trail runners suffice in dry conditions but grip matters when wet.
- Refill water and eat at Rifugio Lavaredo or Locatelli rather than carrying heavy loads from the start.
- Go anti-clockwise (via Forcella Lavaredo first) for the most dramatic reveal of the north faces.
When to visit
July to September offers the most reliable weather and full refuge service. Starting at dawn avoids both the car-park crush and afternoon thunderstorms, and rewards hikers with low light on the north faces.
Accessibility
The gravel track between Rifugio Auronzo and Rifugio Lavaredo is relatively level and firm, but the full circuit includes rocky paths, loose scree and steep pitches at the saddles that are not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible. Visitors with limited mobility can still enjoy the dramatic peak views from the Rifugio Auronzo terrace at the trailhead.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to reach the trailhead?
The toll road from Lago di Misurina to Rifugio Auronzo costs around €30 per car. A seasonal shuttle bus from Misurina, Cortina and Dobbiaco offers a cheaper alternative when the car park is full.
Is the Tre Cime loop suitable for beginners?
Yes. The 9.5km circuit is well-marked with only about 350m of ascent and no technical sections, making it accessible to reasonably fit first-time mountain walkers, though sturdy footwear is recommended.
Are there places to eat and refill water on the route?
Three staffed refuges — Auronzo, Lavaredo and Locatelli — sit along the loop and serve meals, drinks and water, so there is no need to carry large quantities of water.
When is the trail open?
The toll road and trail are generally walkable from late May or June until the first heavy autumn snow, usually October. In winter the road is closed and the route becomes a snowshoe outing.