The ascent to Becco d’Ajal
Despite being the lowest of the peaks surrounding Cortina, the ascent to Becco d’Ajal (1,845 m) is certainly noteworthy. This enormous crag that emerges from the dense and sometimes mysterious forests of Fedèra offers an unforgettable experience, perfect for a short summer outing away from the crowds.
Moreover, climbing Becco d’Ajal and visiting the ruins of the Italian outpost erected over a century ago on its summit provides an interesting combination of hiking adventure and historical insight.
If you’re not familiar with it, Becco d’Ajal is visible from the center of Cortina. It’s that enormous rocky tooth located at the foot of Croda da Lago, north of Lake Fedèra and overlooking the small Lake d’Aial. It’s important to note that the ascent to the “Becco” involves a short section of scrambling which, though easy, should not be underestimated.
At the summit of Becco d’Aial, during the Great War, Italian soldiers built an anti-aircraft observation and defense post. These outposts were essential for monitoring the advance of the Austro-Hungarian forces and coordinating military operations. Today, the outpost ruins on Becco d’Ajal stand as silent witnesses to that historical period.
I would like to point out that the correct name is “Becco d’Aial,” but almost all information online about this peak uses the name “Becco d’Ajal.” Therefore, for better indexing of my post, I will also use the term, “Ajal.”
In the context of the Dolomite mountains, “Becco” refers to a peak or a rocky summit that often has a pointed or beak-like shape. It’s a common term used to describe the distinctive rock formations in this mountainous region.
Access and starting point
There are several ways to reach Becco d’Aial, but here I want to describe the shortest route, starting and ending at Peziè de Parù (1,508 m), not far from Pocol. The journey begins at a clearing where parking is available. From here, you need to walk along the clearly marked dirt road, which is closed off by a barrier.
Short itinerary to Becco d’Ajal
The dirt road soon leads you to Ponte de Peziè de Parù, over the Rio Costana. Just beyond the bridge, turn left following trail marker number 406 and continue along the flat dirt road, then ascend briefly and navigate a hairpin turn.
Now, pay attention! Shortly after the turn, look for a forest road branching off from the dirt road and steeply climbing into the woods. Here, you need to leave the comfortable trail number 406 and proceed up the steep ascent. This is not a numbered path but an unmarked forest track not listed on topographic maps.
The ascent continues steeply, interspersed with a more comfortable section, then resumes climbing until it levels out somewhat. You might notice signs for a rock climbing crag; DO NOT FOLLOW them but continue on the forest road. Shortly, the dark silhouette of Becco d’Ajal will come into view.
A little further on, the forest track merges into CAI trail number 431, where the more strenuous stretch begins. The trail ascends very steeply without interruption, but regardless, you are now approaching your destination.
Finally reaching near Becco d’Ajal, the trail marker “Bèco de Aiàl – for experts” suggests turning right. After a couple of ups and downs, the path reaches the slopes of Becco and ascends along its eastern side.
Here you must pay close attention. Although easy, the trail now traverses a very exposed ledge and proceeds over terrain covered in debris. It was here, unfortunately, that a tourist from Florence slipped and lost her life back in 2005.
On the top of “Becco”
Just a few more steps and finally you’re at the summit! The view over Cortina and the Ampezzo Valley is breathtaking, as is the sight of the surrounding mountains. One’s thoughts also turn to the sad years of war, when the Dolomites were the stage for numerous clashes between Italian and Austro-Hungarian troops. The mountains, with their high and panoramic positions, held great strategic importance for territorial control. Becco d’Ajal, thanks to its dominant position, was particularly crucial for observing and monitoring enemy movements.
Life in these outposts was extremely harsh. Soldiers had to endure adverse weather conditions, with freezing temperatures and snow for much of the year. The high position, while strategic, meant isolation and difficulties in supply logistics.
Today, the outpost ruins on Becco d’Ajal stand as silent witnesses to that historical period. Hikers and history enthusiasts can visit these remains, which offer a glimpse into the past and a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding Dolomites.
The ascent to Becco d’Ajal, besides being a rewarding hiking experience, also provides an opportunity to reflect on the past and pay tribute to the soldiers who fought there.
Descent from Becco d’Ajal
For the descent, retrace your steps back along the trail you took on the ascent until you reach trail number 431 again. Continue downhill, ignoring the left turn that would take you back onto the path you originally followed, and proceed towards Cason del Macaròn.
A cross in the meadow in front of the building marks the spot where Albino Pompanin de Colomba, a shepherd from Campo, was tragically struck by lightning in the summer of 1912. In the Ampezzo dialect, the word “macaròn” means “fool” or “simpleton”.
To conclude your journey through the woods, head west on the dirt road, following the signs for Malga Pezè de Parù, marked by trail number 406. From Cason del Macaròn back to your car, the route is straightforward, and in about half an hour, you’ll complete the loop that took you to a small yet significant peak in the Ampezzo area: Becco d’Ajal.
Time
To ascend and descend from Becco d’Aial following the route described here, the estimated time is 2 to 3 hours, depending on individual pace.
Climbing notes
In addition to the easy access from the east side, on the north face of Becco d’Aial, there are some lesser-known climbing routes. The first was opened back in July 1962 by the “Scoiattoli” climbers Albino Michielli “Strobel” and Arturo Zardini “Tamps”. This route tackles over 200 meters of the shady wall with difficulties ranging from 5.9 to 5.10 grade.
Many years later, in the mid-1980s, two more “Scoiattoli” climbers left their mark: Paolo Alberti “Rodèla” and Antonio Colli “Dantogna”, along with some members of the Ragni di Pieve di Cadore, established additional routes, of which I don’t have detailed information.
Over the years, Bèco d’Aial has continued to attract the interest of climbers, and other routes may well have been established on its walls. However, I have no reliable information about any additional lines.
More recently, on August 27, 2026, Giordano Riello and Massimo “Mox” Da Pozzo opened Via del Dodo on the main wall, a new 150-metre route, fully bolted and with difficulties up to 6c. I have described the climb and included the full route details in my article about Via del Dodo.
But Becco d’Ajal is also surrounded by numerous satellites, and slender and overhanging towers, on which local climbers have opened extremely challenging routes. Today, the crag of Becco d’Aial is considered one of the main centers for sport climbing in Cortina.
Conclusion
The ascent to Becco d’Aial and the visit to the ruins of the Italian outpost offers an interesting combination of hiking adventure and historical exploration. Hikers and history enthusiasts can visit these remains, which not only provide a window into the past but also offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding Dolomites.
World War I has left indelible marks on the Dolomite mountains, and Becco d’Aial is a significant example. The memory of those times and the sacrifices made can be honored through knowledge and by visiting these historic sites.
