In Tre Cime with snowshoes
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo hardly need any introduction—they are the iconic peaks of the Dolomites, even featured in the UNESCO Dolomites logo. Unfortunately, their fame means that in summer, the trails at the base of this legendary trio become overwhelmed by tourists, robbing these peaks of some of the magic they offer.
It’s an entirely different experience to traverse the snow and immerse yourself in authenticity: visiting the Tre Cime with snowshoes is an adventure that delivers unique emotions and breathtaking panoramas. The “Tre Cime with Snowshoes” experience allows you to rediscover the hidden charm of the Dolomites in a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Starting from the Auronzo refuge, the route winds along panoramic trails, offering breathtaking views of the imposing peaks and the surrounding landscape. The snow-covered ground creates a magical atmosphere, while snowshoes help you easily navigate the snowy terrain.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, the snowshoe excursion to the Tre Cime will amaze you with its beauty and simplicity. Embracing the true spirit of Tre Cime with Snowshoes, every step on this journey blends adventure with the serene allure of a winter wonderland.
A snowshoe walk at the Tre Cime di Lavaredo is an unmissable adventure—ideal for discovering the enchantment of the Dolomites in winter. During this season, the area is much more tranquil than in summer, when it is overrun by crowds of tourists who disturb its serenity.
To make the excursion even more enjoyable and less strenuous, it is advisable to use the snowmobile service that takes you up to the Auronzo Refuge.
From there, you continue on foot toward the Lavaredo Refuge, then ascend to the Lavaredo Saddle, where you can admire the legendary north faces of the Tre Cime.
The snowmobile transport costs about 35 euros per person (winter 2024–2025) and includes, by choice, either the return ride by snowmobile or a descent by sled.
Please note that this price refers only to the snowmobile transport and is not related to the guiding service. The guiding service with an Alpine Guide is priced separately. You can find my current rates here.
The ticket costs 35 euros per person (winter 2024–2025) and includes, by choice, either the return ride by snowmobile or a descent by sled.
The route from the Auronzo refuge to the Lavaredo Saddle takes about an hour. Still, some variations allow you to extend the hike, offering different options depending on your preferences. The return to the Auronzo refuge follows the same path as the outbound journey, and part of the way is via alternative trails, allowing you to explore new, breathtaking views. This excursion is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the majesty of the Tre Cime and enjoy a peaceful and captivating hike, far removed from the tourist frenzy.
Access
There are three main starting points to reach the Tre Cime di Lavaredo: Cortina d’Ampezzo, Auronzo, and Dobbiaco. From each of these towns, you then need to reach Misurina:
- From Cortina, by crossing the Tre Croci Pass via the SR 48;
- From Auronzo, also along the SR 48;
- From Dobbiaco, via the SS 51 from Alemagna, turning left (east) at Carbonin on the SS 48bis.
Finally, from Misurina, you take the road leading to Lake Antorno, the starting point for the snowmobiles.
Itinerary
It is important to know that the route from the Auronzo refuge to the Lavaredo refuge can only be attempted when the snow is well settled. This avoids the risk of avalanches on the steep slope overlooking Val Marzon.
The hike begins at the Auronzo refuge, 2330 meters on the Longéres Saddle. Head east (CAI trail no. 101) from the refuge, following the signs for the Lavaredo refuge. The distance between the two refuges is 1.7 km.
Almost immediately along the route, you catch a glimpse in the distance of the little church of S. Maria Ausiliatrice, built to commemorate the soldiers who fell during the Great War.
From the Lavaredo refuge, continue toward your destination: the Lavaredo Saddle (2454 m). From the saddle, you can finally admire, to your left, the dizzying north faces of the Tre Cime.
This viewpoint encapsulates the essence of the “Tre Cime with Snowshoes” experience, offering vistas that will remain etched in your memory.
In the distance ahead, you can see the Locatelli refuge, followed by the little Toblin Tower, and further on, the Punta dei Tre Scarperi, the Piatta Alta and Piatta Bassa peaks, the Croda dei Rondoi, and Monte Rudo. Further to the left (west) rises the massive Croda Rossa d’Ampezzo.
After a well-deserved break, you can retrace your steps. Rather than following the same path on the return, several alternative routes allow you to discover new, breathtaking views. Once back at the Auronzo refuge, you can descend by snowmobile, sled, or foot if you’re feeling up to it.
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Approximately 120 meters
Distance: Approximately 5 km
Average Time: 2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours
Related pages:
How to use snowshoes.
Snowshoeing tours in Cortina.
Walk around the Tre Cime.
