At the beginning of the season, some ferrata routes are not practicable, because there is still snow up in the mountains.
Usually you can do ferrate routes during the summer season, except in some particular conditions (see: climb the ferrata in winter). In the following weekly updated schedule, you can check which ferrata routes are open in the area of Cortina d’Ampezzo and which ones are still closed. Check hereunder the via ferrata accessibility.
You will also find a brief description and the degree of difficulty of the via ferrata (read more about via ferrata difficulty scale).
Note: guideolomiti declines any responsibility for accidents caused by erroneous interpretations or imprudent behaviors using the contents of this site.
Via ferrata in Cortina: is there snow on the ferratas?
WARNING: THIS PAGE IS OUT OF DATE.
DURING THE WINTER SEASON THE FERRATE ARE OFFICIALLY CLOSED, ALTHOUGH SOME CAN BE CLIMBED WITH THE NECESSARY TECHNICAL PREPARATION AND THE APPROPRIATE WINTER EQUIPMENT.
LAST UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 19th – 2023
WARNING: during the winter this page is not updated!
WARNING: DURING THE WINTER SEASON THIS PAGE IS NOT UPDATED
First step, EASY VIA FERRATA, suitable for kids and beginners
SENTIERO ASTALDI – I ROŠ DE TOFANA
Sentiero ferrato Astaldi is the easiest via ferrata in Cortina. It’s an equipped path which offers a magnificent view, as well as being extremely interesting from a geological point of view.
This is a great short-but-scenic route at south edge of the Tofana Group, not far from Cortina D’Ampezzo.
The route is tucked in far down at the base of Punta Anna, along very colorful, slope-forming ochre-colored strata (the Raibl formation – 220 million years).
Considering that the itinerary comprises exposed sections, however wide, vertigo sufferers should avoid the route.f
Although this section presents no technical difficulties, it is nevertheless exposed and as such a via ferrata kit is highly recommended.
Read more about ferrata Astaldi.
GROTTA DELLA TOFANA DI ROZES
During the mid-half of latter century the Grotta di Tofana was a highly popular outing with visiting tourists, now though it is has fallen into disuse.
I believe though that the walk and ferrata remains a highly interesting outing, above all in spring when temperatures rise and hundreds of spectacular stalagmites form in the cave thanks to the water dripping from the roof.
The grotto is reached via a ledge which has been equipped with steel cables. The Grotta of Tofana has a helical development, is about 150 meters long and its vault is even 10 meters high.
Although this section presents no technical difficulties, it is nevertheless exposed and as such a via ferrata kit is highly recommended.
Read more about ferrata Grotta di Tofana!
FERRATA RA PEGNA
It is a straightforward ferrata created ad hoc for users taking on this type of route for the first time, a sort of gym and suitable for children, too, as long as they are accompanied by experts and roped on.
The term Ra Pegna is the Ladin translation of zangola, a cylindrical or conical wooden recipient used to churn up cream and transform it into butter.
The Ra Pegna via ferrata, like that of Ra Bujela, is a valid alternative to the longer or more challenging routes on mixed weather days when the area’s other ferratas are not safe (see ferrata Olivieri alla Punta Anna, ferrata alla Tofana di Mezzo, sentiero Olivieri).
With no difficulty, you’ll get to enjoy the panoramic views at the summit! The “Ra Pegna” and “Ra Bujela” (needle, once again in Ladin) rock towers rise up at the foot of Punta Anna and the Pomedes tower in the Tofana massif.
Read more about ferrata Ra Pegna!
FANES WATRFALLS – FERRATA BARBARA
This extremely spectacular and panoramic trip winds its way through deep gorges and canyons to the confluence of the Fanes, Travenenzes and Ra Vales valleys north of Cortina linking up hugely impressive sites in landscape and hydro-geological terms.
The two walks underneath the Fanes waterfalls are truly spectacular. The sequence of potholes, rapids and waterfalls all the way along the course of Rio Fanes is extraordinarily beautiful and the Fanes Cascate Basse are some of the highest and largest waterfalls in the Dolomites.
The route winds through the heart of the Dolomiti d’Ampezzao Park with sections of various difficulty levels and can be attempted in sections or in its entirety, in part by families with children, and has a number of beautiful views and equipped sections with metal cables in the most exposed and difficult points.
Read more about Fanes Waterfall.
FERRATA RA GUSELA – NUVOLAU
Easy and short via ferrata that runs on the south east face of Gusela. Perfect for the beginners or as first summer training.
The route follows the natural fissures of the rock; you climb a crevice of crumbling rock, debris-free due to the numerous passages. A metal ladder allows you to overcome a steep section.
After the first section of the via ferrata, you are amidst the lunar landscape of Mt. Nuvolau. Once you arrive below the edge of the Nuvolau, you tackle the last part of the via ferrata which on the ridge leads up to the Nuvolau refuge.
It’s another excellent brief excursion that won’t take up your entire day.
SENTIERO FERRATO OLIVIERI
The Sentiero Olivieri (Olivieri’s path) is an easy equipped path that allows the connection between the Rifugio Pomedes (2303 m) and the Rifugio Ra Valles (2470 m).
It is important not to confuse the SENTIERO G. Olivieri with the difficult FERRATA G. Olivieri.
Sentiero Olivieri is an easy ferrata which offers a magnificent view onto Cortina and the d’Ampezzo valley and is certainly worth exploring.
This pleasant and short “walk across the peaks” is an ideal route for those who have never attempted a via ferrata before and wish to learn the ropes on terrain that is not too difficult.
You are almost guaranteed to meet chamois as the grassy slopes above Rifugio Duca d’Aosta provide food and warmth for these agile animals. If you walk along the Sentiero Olivieri, it’s difficult not to encounter them at some point.
Read more about Sentiero Ferrato Olivieri.
SENTIERO DEI KAISERJÄGER
The Kaiserjäger path is and very scenic, but also really important from a historical point of view.
On 23rd May 1915, the Kingdom of Italy declared war on the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The Italian Army occupied Cortina, thus ending four centuries of Hapsburg Empire rule there. The Austro-Hungarian troops withdrew onto the Lagazuoi to defend the Badia Valley and South Tyrol. From that moment onward, the mountains of the Lagazuoi area became the theatre of an incredible war fought at high altitude.
The Kaiserjaeger path was the communication way between the bottom of the valley and the high emplacements on Lagazuoi, and was used to supply food, munitions, and war equipment.
Despite not presenting technical difficulties, the route is quite long. Furthermore, you are at altitude, and in case of bad weather, a pleasant trip to the mountains can turn into a bad adventure, so you must pay attention to the weather forecast.
Attention however must be paid since there is some exposure in parts, but with well placed fixed cables for support. The route can be completed both uphill and downhill, using the cable car. This itinerary can be combined with the Anticima Tunnel, thus making a circular route.
Secod step, SLIGHTLY DIFFICULT FERRATAS
SASS DE STRIA – FERRATA FUSETTI
The ferrata is located on the south-west face of Sasso di Stria (2477 metres), a modest peak as compared with the great Dolomite mountains, but one with equally marvellous panoramas.
I will point out that the brief access route traverses a highly exposed ledge which is only minimally equipped.
It is thus essential that you are sure footed and used to walking on this type of path.
Ferrata Fusetti on Sass de Stria was set up in the summer of 2018 by two teams of Alpini soldiers looking for the remains of second lieutenant Mario Fusetti, gold medal for bravery winner. An easy via ferrata of great historical interest.
Read more about ferrata Fusetti on Sass de Stria.
FERRATA AVERAU
Easy equipped trail that leads to the top of Torrione Averau. It can be linked to Ra Gusela to complete the loop of Nuvolau and Averau.
This short and easy via ferrata route begins with a chairlift from Rifugio Fedare up to Rifugio Averau. It can also be accessed from Cortina d’Ampezzo, by taking the Cinque Torri chairlift to Rifugio Scoiattoli, and walking 30 minutes to Rifugio Averau.
Once you reach the rifugio, the marked path will lead you northwards to the start of the ferrata, which sits just below Averau’s northeast gully.
From the peak of Averau, which dominates the horizon between Passo Falzarego and Passo Giau, there is a magnificent view towards Monte Pelmo, the Civetta, Antelao, Sorapis and the not far-off Tofana di Rozes.
FERRATA TERZA CENGIA – POMAGAGNON
This itinerary traverses from east to west the south face of Mount Pomagagnon. Some parts are exposed, but well equipped. A a very exposed stretch leads to a pass between the Croda Cestellis and the Punta Erbing. This is the highest point of the hike. If you want to walk few minutes more, from here it’s easy to get up to Punta Erbing. It is not particularly difficult, but it offers gorgeous views on the valley.
The broad view sweeps freely and fantastically over the Ampezzo basin onto Sorapis, Croda da Lago, Tofane and remote Pelmo and Cristallo. A sight not to be missed!
This very exposed route poses no particular difficulties but, given its total ascent, is best suited to well experienced, fit walkers. Due care and attention is required when crossing the rubble ledges.
SENTIERO FERRATO RENATO DE POL – FORAME
The starting point of the itinerary is the Cimabanche Pass which, along State Road 51, links Dobbiaco with Cortina d’Ampezzo. This via ferrata traverses the north and north west faces of the Forame mountain group.
The itinerary is long and has also historical interest due to WW1 remains that can be seen along the path. Steel cables and iron ladders lead through small walls and past rubble terraces to reach the Austrian First World War emplacements and the Punta Ovest del Forame summit as well as the Forame de Fora.
This is a demanding ferrata, especially if the walk-in and descent are taken into account. Being a long and fairly isolated itinerary (including the return to Val Pra de Vecia) it is advisable to prepare the trip well and to avoid days with less stable weather.
Due care and attention are required at the start of the season as snow and ice may still be present on the wide terraces and ledges.
SCALA DEL MINIGHEL – TOFANA DI ROZES
The Scala of Minighel is a really peculiar ferrata, both for its history and also for the particularity of his features, which distinguish it from all the climbing I got to go up in many years of hiking and mountain climbing.
This is the first via ferrata built in Cortina, and in the Dolomites.
There are three main access points to the Minighel ladder:
1. From Rifugio Dibona.
2. From Fiames uphill through Val Travenenzes.
3. From Passo Falzarego or Mt. Lagazuoi.
Read more about ferrata Scala del Minighel!
SENTIERO FERRATO DE LUCA – INNERKOFLER – MONTE PATERNO
This is a very scenic route in the Sesto Group of Dolomites, to the east of Cortina D’Ampezzo. The route follows an interesting wartime path, including an extensive tunnelled section.
Monte Paterno is an excellent observation point for the impressive north faces of the Tre Cime, symbol of alpinism not only in the Dolomites but all over the world.
The view from the “De Luca – Innerkofler” via ferrata is exceptional.
To get there, from Cortina you have to follow the road to Misurina via Passo Tre Croci. Then take the Tre Cime toll road up to Rifugio Auronzo (2298m).
The toll road is quite expensive (1 car 30,00 Euros!), a cheaper way is to go to Rifugio Auronzo by bus.
Because of its close proximity to the Tre Cime and amenable grade the route can get very busy during peak season.
There are a number of tunnels on the route and a head torch is essential.
FERRATA RA BUJELA
This ferrata is called “Via ferrata Maria e Andrea Ferrari”, and enables you to reach the top of Ra Bujela with the help of steel cables, two bridges and some pins that facilitate the ascent where this gets steeper.
The proximity of the Duca d’Aosta and Pomedes huts, the beautiful view, the ease of access and the time needed to explore this relatively short via ferrata up Ra Bujela (2257m) all make this new (2015) ferrata well worth doing.
Furthermore, it can be joined to other spectacular ferrate nearby, such as via ferrata Olivieri on Punta Anna, the sentiero ferrato Olivieri and sentiero ferrato Astaldi.
Read more about ferrata Ra Bujela!
After the slightly difficult ferrata I recommend the following: DIFFICULT FERRATS
VIA FERRATA DELLE SCALETTE – TORRE TOBLIN
An interesting via ferrata through the north-west face of the Torre di Toblin (2.617 m).
It’s a short, very steep and exposed climb, mostly secured with ladders (17 ladders!). If the via ferrata were longer, it would be classified as difficult. At its current length, it offers a varied practice climb for experienced mountaineers in a spectacular setting.
The panorama is quite superb and because of this dominating position the Austrian troops established an excellent vantage point from its summit to monitor the nearby Italian Army during the First World War.
The modern Sentiero delle Scalette runs alongside the original Austrian route and remnants of wooden ladders up a series of more recent ladders past steep chimneys through the Torre’s exposed North Face.
The descent along the Sentiero attrezzato del Cappellano Hosp leads down easier terrain along the stepped North-East flank.
FERRATA TRUPPE ALPINE – COL DEI BOS
In November 2007 the Italian military, based in Bolzano, established a via ferrata on Col dei Bos. This “Via ferrata degli Alpini” follows the line of an existing route and works were completed in November 2008.
The ferrata ascends the South Face of the Col dei Bos pyramid (also referred to as Col dei Bois) and was established using steel cables, innovative cones which optimise carabiner placements during falls and particular bolt reinforcements placed where the cable changes angle acutely.
This itinerary it is perfectly equipped. The starting point is 30 minutes far from the parking of Restaurant Strobel.
Read more about Ferrata degli Alpini!
VIA FERRATA STROBEL – PUNTA FIAMES
The ferrata Strobel on Punta Fiames is one of the most classical via ferratas of the Cortina area. This beautiful via ferrata goes up through the west face of Punta Fiames, along ledges and chimneys. It is exposed in some parts, but well equipped.
The ferrata is composed of a series of steep protected sections and not-so-steep paths connecting them. The route wanders back and forth up the flank. After many sections of wire rope and many sections of easy path, you reach the sloping summit area, which soon leads to the Punta Fiames.
Very well-known mountains can be recognized from the panoramic summit: the Sorapiss Group, Mount Pelmo, the Croda da Lago, the Lastoni di Formin, the Cinque Torri, the Nuvolau, the Averau, the entire Tofane Group, the Col Rosa and, to the north, the Croda del Becco.
FERRATA FORMENTON – TOFANA TERZA – TOFANA DI MEZZO
ATTENTION, trail 407 is closed due to the danger of collapses! The section from Ra Valles to Cima Tofana Terza is closed. However, the section from Tofana di Mezzo to Tofana Terza remains open, with the possibility of descending on the west side to Forcella del Valon and Rifugio Giussani.
Tofana Terza m 3238 (AKA Tofana di Dentro or Tofana de Inze) is a mountain belonging to the group of the three majestic Tofane in the Eastern Dolomites. It’s a beautiful peak, full of history, that can be climbed choosing amongst three different normal routes.
I suggest the route running along the North Ridge of the mountain, a long and scenic itinerary that is particularly interesting in reason of the superb views and the remains of the fighting on these high summits during the First World War.
Beautiful traverse leading from Tofana Terza to Tofana di Mezzo. From there, you return to Cortina by cable car. The walking approach which I suggest can be done taking the “Freccia del Cielo” cable-car starting from beside the ice stadium in Cortina, and reaching the Ra Vales middle station.
SENTIERO FERRATO IVANO DIBONA – MONTE CRISTALLO
WARNING: the unusually shaped gondola lift from Rifugio Son Forcia to Forcella Staunies (see picture) closed down in the summer of 2016. The intention is to upgrade the lift but nothing has been decided on the subject yet. Also Rifugio Lorenzi is closed!
Via Ivano Dibona is a historical route used by Italian troops during the Great War. Clearly visible along the way are the remains of the trenches and barricades of over a century ago. After the Great War, the path was re-explored in the 1960s by Freddy and Ivano Dibona, later made safe for tourists and reopened in September 1970. It takes its name from Ivano Dibona, who died on Cima Grande di Lavaredo in 1968.
The path goes downwards along the ledges used during WW1. Well known for the impressive passage through a suspended bridge, it is not technically difficult, but long and phisically demanding. Check the weather forecast before start.
FERRATA MARINO BIANCHI – CRISTALLO
WARNING: the unusually shaped gondola lift from Rifugio Son Forcia to Forcella Staunies closed down in the summer of 2016. The intention is to upgrade the lift but nothing has been decided on the subject yet. Also Rifugio Lorenzi is closed!
The Ferrata Bianchi is devoted to the Ampezzo mountain guide Marino Bianchi who died at the Torre del Lago on 23 October 1969. Beautiful itinerary with stunning views of the Dolomites of Zoldo, Ampezzane, Sesto and Bellunesi that literally surround the Cristallo.
Nice route that runs from forcella Staunies to the top of Monte Monte Cristallo di Mezzo (3154 m). The line follows the crest and it is equipped with ladders and cables. There are a few ladders here and there, and a few somewhat airy spots, but nothing overtly bad.
FERRATA LIPELLA – TOFANA DI ROZES
Ferrata Lipella can certainly be ranked high on top of the most prestigeous ferratas of Dolomites.
The ferrata runs along the west and north west faces of Tofana di Rozes, with scree covered ledges and a tortuous trail.
It’s a very long via ferrata. The first part is into the spiral WW1 tunnel of the “Castelletto” and the exit arrive on the artillery positions of the “Tre Dita” (three fingers). The ferrata was opened in 1967.
It requires mountaineering experiences and already quite some power in hands. In addition to that, due to its length also very good fitness is required.
OK, you are an expert. These via ferratas are for you: VERY DIFFICULT VIA FERRATAS
ETTORE BOVERO – COL ROSÀ
Nice route that runs through the south west face of Col Rosà. From the summit of the Col Rosà the view of the whole valley and Cortina d’Ampezzo is truly magnificent!
The via ferrata itself is relatively short, but it is still an interesting itinerary, in some places very exposed. The short duration should not be misleading as it is an almost vertical climb with some interesting passages between dihedrals, chimneys and traverses that must not be taken lightly.
Col Rosa has very steep and dramatic south, west, and east aspects. To the north, however, it presents a gently sloping incline.
The ferrata scales the south face, and the return route is a trail that leads north and then around and back, forming a nice loop route.
FERRATA BERTI – CRODA MARCORA
The via ferrata Berti develops on the Great western wall of the Croda Marcora, in the Sorapis range. Described on some books as a great walk on the mountains, this spectacular itinerary links Cortina d’Ampezzo and San Vito di Cadore.
You can decide to start this wonderful hike in both cortina or San Vito.
Otherwise, the Via ferrata Berti can be included in the complete route of the Sorapis, a classic and spectacular tour of the duration of two days around one of the most majestic dolomitic groups of mountains.
The exposed Cengia del Banco provides an amazing view on the underlying Valle del Boite and in the Pelmo and Tofana massifs. Even if there aren’t substantial technical difficulties, the route is very long and physically challenging.
Surely it is a via ferrata for well trained and expert alpinists. It is fundamental a safe gait on the numerous ledges that characterize the route.
To do only with good weather conditions!
VIA FERRATA OLIVIERI to PUNTA ANNA
Among the via ferratas in Cortina, this is one of my favorites, especially when combined with the upper section that allows reaching the summit of Tofana di Mezzo (see the next via ferrata). In my opinion, it is one of the most beautiful and interesting via ferratas in the Dolomites. The route is exposed and vertical, offering a magnificent view of the imposing south face of Tofana Rozes and the legendary Pillar of Rozes.
Once you reach the summit of Punta Anna, continue along the ridge following the red markers until you reach a fork. To descend to the Giussani refuge, you need to turn left, briefly leaving the metal cable that instead begins to ascend and connects to the Aglio via ferrata, and from there to the summit of Tofana di Mezzo.
It is also possible, from Punta Anna, to continue climbing to gain the northeast side of the mountain and then descend to Ra Valles or the Pomedes refuge along the Olivieri path.
VIA FERRATA G. AGLIO – TOFANA DI MEZZO
Alpine and exposed itinerary recommended for experienced hikers. The route allows you to reach the summit of Tofana di Mezzo (3244 m), the highest of the three Tofane peaks and the third highest peak in the Dolomites. It is a spectacular via ferrata, with some challenging passages where it is essential to be prepared and in good physical condition, as the length of the route can be demanding.
Once, the upper part of the via ferrata, upon reaching the Bus de Tofana, used to develop entirely on the eastern side of the mountain. Today, however, you traverse the magnificent limestone slabs of the southwest face along a truly magnificent path. A large hole in the rock finally allows you to move to the opposite side of the mountain, where a steep ladder leads to a less steep terrain that is followed all the way to the summit. For the descent, the cable car is usually used. If you plan to use the cable car for the descent, make sure to check the operating hours.
In conclusion, this via ferrata, combined with the Olivieri ferrata, is undoubtedly one of the most challenging via ferratas in Cortina, not only due to the technical difficulties but also because of the overall commitment required.
Wow! Let’s go to enjoy the EXTREMELY DIFFICULT VIA FERRATA!
FERRATA TOMASELLI – CIMA FANIS SUD
Via ferrata that takes an exposed line on Cima Fanis Sud. The Cesco Tomaselli is a very good quality via ferrata, perfectly secured and technically hard in places.
This via ferrata is one of the most worthwhile via ferrata in the Dolomites.
Please bear in mind that the Tomaselli is one of the harder via ferrate of the Dolomites. It is exposed, technically demanding and it requires a good shape. The brief initial traverse and the vertical wall leading to the summit crest contain sections that are good indicators of the hiker’s ability.
The peak has no non-technical way to its summit: therefore, in order to descend after completing the Tomaselli ferrata, you must take another (less-hard) ferrata down.
VIA FERRATA SCI CLUB 18 – FALORIA
It’s for sure the most difficult via ferrata of Cortina, and it’s one of the hardest via ferrata of the Dolomites.
The “Sci Club 18” is a demanding via ferrata which winds its way up the Crepe di Faloria face, immediately beneath the cable car which leads up to the top of Monte Faloria above Cortina. The starting point is 40 minutes far from middle station of Faloria’s gondola. Check if the cable-car is open!
If the cable car is closed, there is an alternative path to reach the ferrata Sci Club 18, please see on this website the description of via ferrata Sci Club 18.
This difficult and exposed ferrata offers spectacular views over the entire Ampezzo basin and was created by the Cortina Mountain Guides and the Faloria company with 700m of steel cables and more than 300 pins.
This via ferrata is very exposed along the entire route. As indicated at the end of the route, the Ferrata Sci Club 18 is not passable downhill.