Hiking the Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Hiking the Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Tre Cime di Lavaredo (which translates to the Three Peaks of Lavaredo) is one of the most famous landmarks of the Dolomites. This popular tourist attraction has several exceptional hikes in the area. The most popular trail is an easy loop around Tre Cime.

For those looking for a detour, there is an excellent hike that makes a larger loop with alpine lakes, stunning valleys, WWII bunkers, and of course, the Tre Cime peaks.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike
View of the Surrounding Mountains

Content and photographs provided by Yana Kogan and Timon.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).


Hiking the Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Entry Cost

There is no entry fee for the park or for hiking; however, there is a parking fee of 20 Euros per vehicle to park at Rifugio Lavaredo. Other access points do not have a parking fee; however, this is the most accessible place for Tre Cime.


Getting There

Take the bus or drive to Rifugio Lavaredo. The Rifugio is located past a toll booth on the mountain road after Lake Misurina. This is the start of trail 101. At the trailhead, there is a comprehensive map of the various routes in the area.

Like this post?! How about...
The 15 Best Things to do in Venice, Italy

Length and Difficulty

Tre Cime di Lavaredo Trail
The beginning of Trail 104

Our Hike: 11.9 Miles round trip, 3,508 feet gain, 5 hours 46 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult


The Hike

Tre Cime di Lavaredo Trekking
Valley next to Trail 104

Take trail 101 on the loop around Tre Cime, an option for a shorter and easier hike. For a better alternative, head to trail 101 and then continue on trail 104 to Pian di Cengia. The beginning of the hike is flat with a beautiful valley to the right. At the end of the valley, there is a steep ascent of switchbacks to the first peak.

After the ascent, trail 104 and 107 merge. Take trail 107 and continue through another valley and a small lake, Lago di Cengia. Afterward, there is another steep ascent with switchbacks to the top of the ridgeline.

Tre Cime Hike: Lago di Cengia
Looking back down at Lago di Cengia

At the top, the trail to the left will return to trail 104. Before heading left, first explore some of the excellent WWII caves and bunkers on the right. Afterward, take trail 104 towards Rifugio Locatelli. This section of the hike is flat or downhill. It will pass a beautiful alpine lake with stunning peaks behind it.

After the lake, there are several smaller lakes. This is the final stretch to Rifugio Locatelli. Once around the back of a mountain bend, the rifugio comes into view, as well as Tre Cime di Lavaredo. This is a perfect spot for a break to enjoy a beer on the patio with these stunning views.

Once ready to complete the hike, head towards the small church behind Rifugio Locatelli. Next to the church is the start of trail 105. This trail leads into the valley underneath Tre Cime and wraps around the side of the mountain. It passes another small rifugio and not much further is the end of the hike.


What to Pack for the Hike

Tre Cime di Lavaredo Trekking: Church
Church and Tre Cime
  • Daypack
  • Lightweight jacket
  • Water
  • Snacks (food can be purchased at Refugio Vandelli)
  • Sunblock
  • Hat
Like this post?! How about...
The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Venice, Italy

That’s it – have a wonderful time hiking the Tre Cime Di Lavaredo!


Planning a trip to Italy? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!


About the Author:

  • Yana and Timon

    Yana & Timon met at college in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduating, they started their professional careers. They moved to San Francisco in 2010, a city they loved living in for nearly six years.

    After working and saving up money for several years, they quit their jobs and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. They started living a nomadic lifestyle in December 2015 and have not looked back since.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

0 Shares
Share
Pin
Tweet