A charming hike to discover the turquoise waters of the glacial lake nestled in Mt Sorapis natural amphitheater.

Route

11.1 km

Time

3-4 hours

Difference

450 m

Sloping

11° max

The hike starts in the proximity of Passo Tre Croci, 8 km from Cortina center.

The pass is easy to reach by car, though parking spaces are limited. Alternative options are riding an e-bike or taking advantage of the bus service during the summer season.

Take the forest road, right after the pass towards Auronzo, to access the start of the trail.

The route offers varied and picturesque natural wonders with stunning views over Mt. Cristallo and Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Wade across a stream and climb up a few steep stretches until you reach the most demanding part of the trail featuring metal ladders and a narrow ledge overhanging the Rio Sorapis ravine.

The ledge is equipped with metal cable for support. We recommend proceeding with extra care, though the via Ferrata Kit is not mandatory.

After a short stretch through rocks and mugo pines you reach Rifugio Vandelli.

A few steps further, the iconic lake will appear. Its amazing and unique colour comes from the glacial silt suspended in water.

The way back is along the same route of the ascent.

Rest stop: Rifugio Vandelli: Ph. +39 0435 39015

Recommended period:

From June to September

Recommended clothing:

Backpack to carry food and a change of clothes. Hiking or trekking shoes, rain jacket, and water bottle.

Minimum recommended age:

10 years

Route features:

Family friendly, Dog friendly

Hazards:

Short and exposed stretch on equipped ledge. Very crowded during peak season and weekends which might compromise the quality of the experience.

Exposure:

High

Remoteness:

Remote

Other itineraries:

easy

Gores de Federa

A newly designed trail along the Ru de Federa water course, through waterfalls, gorges and pools.

medium

Lake Federa

This very popular itinerary will take you to a wonderful lake, through stunning landscapes and varied natural wonders.

medium

Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop

High-altitude hike to admire the majestic steep faces of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, icon of the Dolomites.

Our offers:

If you are in Cortina and are not properly equipped for this adventure, all you need do is dropping by Snow Service where you will find all the necessary gear.

Livelli di difficoltà

Facile: Itinerario su stradine, mulattiere o larghi sentieri. I percorsi generalmente non sono lunghi, non presentano alcun problema di orientamento e non richiedono un allenamento specifico se non quello tipico della passeggiata.

Medio: Itinerari su sentieri od evidenti tracce in terreno di vario genere (pascoli, detriti, pietraie…). Sono generalmente segnalati con vernice od ometti (pietre impilate a forma piramidale che permettono di individuare il percorso anche da lontano). Richiedono una sufficiente capacità di orientamento, allenamento alla camminata anche per qualche ora.

Difficile: Si tratta di itinerari generalmente segnalati, ma che implicano la capacità di muoversi su terreni particolari. Sentieri e tracce si trovano su terreni impervio e infido a quote relativamente elevate.

Intenso: Itinerari generalmente segnalati ma con qualche difficoltà: il terreno può essere costituito da pendii scivolosi di erba, misti di rocce ed erba, pietraie, lievi pendii innevati o anche singoli passaggi rocciosi di facile arrampicata (uso delle mani in alcuni punti). Richiedono una discreta conoscenza dall’ambiente alpino, passo sicuro ed assenza di vertigini. La preparazione fisica deve essere adeguata ad una giornata di cammino abbastanza continuo.

Estremo: Sentieri non sempre segnalati che richiedono un’ottima preparazione fisica e una profonda conoscenza dell’ambiente. Pendenze elevate e possibilità trovare tratti esposti.

Grading system

Easy: Along dirt roads, mule tracks or wide trails. The itineraries are generally not long, no orientation skills and specific training are required. Suitable for any reasonably fit person.

Medium: along trails or fairly visible paths on mixed terrain (pasturelands, debris, scree slopes). Generally marked with paint or cairns (a mound of rough stones built as a landmark, to find the way even from afar). Average orientation skills are required, adequate fitness level for few hours walk.

Difficult: though generally marked or signposted, the  itineraries require familiarity with any terrain. Trails and tracks runs on steep or treacherous terrain at higher elevations.

Severe: though generally marked, the itineraries feature some difficulties: slippery grassy slopes, combination of rocks and grassy patches, scree slopes, snowy patches, or easy rock climbing stretches (scrambling is required). Good knowledge of the mountain environment, sure-footedness, and a head for the heights. Adequate physical preparation for a long day walking.

Extreme: Often unmarked trails that require an excellent physical preparation and a deep knowledge of the environment. Steep terrain and exposed sections are likely to be found.

Please read!

Snow Service does not organize tours nor offers guiding services. We only suggest the safest and easiest itineraries you can enjoy with our products.