Sassolungo Hike: Breathtaking Loop Trail in the Heart of the Dolomites
The Ultimate Loop Trail Around Langkofel
If you’re looking for one of the most iconic hikes in the Dolomites, the Sassolungo hike should be at the top of your list. This scenic loop trail winds around the dramatic peaks of the Langkofel Group (Sassolungo in Italian, Langkofel in German), offering ever-changing views, alpine huts, and breathtaking landscapes. Located between Val Gardena and Val di Fassa, this hike showcases the raw beauty of the Dolomites in every direction.
Below Sassolungo lies the Sella Pass, dotted with hairpin bends, which connects the two valleys above. It is bordered by the Sella Group to the east and the Catinaccio/Rosengarten Mountains to the west. Its highest peak is Sassolungo at 3,181 meters, which is the ninth highest point in the Dolomites.
This Sassolungo hike guide is for you if you want to…
✓ decide if the Sassolungo loop hike is right for your fitness level
✓ understand trail options, distance, and elevation before you go
✓ plan the hike without missing the best viewpoints
✓ know when to go and what to expect on the trail
✓ enjoy one of the most scenic circular hikes in the region
Scroll down for everything you need to know before hiking around Sassolungo.
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links.
Getting there and parking
Where is Sassolungo?
The Sassolungo Group is nestled between the Sella Pass and the Seiser Alm (Alpe di Siusi) in South Tyrol. Its highest peak reaches 3,181 meters, making it the 9th tallest in the Dolomites. The group also includes other impressive peaks like Punta Grohmann (3,113 m), Torre Innerkofler (3,081 m), Sassopiatto (2,964 m), and Punta Cinquedita (2,918 m).
The Sassolungo hike is a circular route starting and ending at the Sella Pass, taking you through pine forests, rocky terrain, alpine meadows, and the shadow of towering dolomite cliffs.
Recommended Accommodation
Stay close to the trailhead to make the most of your day:
Passo Sella Dolomiti Mountain Resort**** – A modern alpine hotel right at the pass with panoramic views and a wellness center.
Hotels in Selva di Val Gardena – It is located about 10 km from the bottom station of the cable car.
Hotels in Canazei – It is located about 13 km from the bottom station of the cable car.
Book your stay early, especially in summer!
Getting There & Parking
By Car: The hike begins at the Sella Pass (Passo Sella) parking lot, accessible from Selva di Val Gardena or Canazei. The road is winding but well maintained.
By Public Transport: In summer, seasonal buses run between Val Gardena and Canazei (line 471). Check the current timetable at suedtirolmobil.info
Parking Tip: Arrive early – parking is paid and fills up quickly during high season.
Optional Cable Car
You can take the unique 2-person standing cable car to Forcella del Sassolungo (Rifugio Toni Demetz) to skip the steep first climb. In 2025, it runs from June 12 to October 12 (2026 info coming soon).
Price: One-way – €25 / Return – €35.
More info: sassolungo.bz/en
Sassolungo hike map
Sassolungo Hike Details
Hike Details (Short Loop)
Distance: 8.4 – 11 km (depending on cable car use)
Time: ~4–5 hours
Elevation gain: Up to 750 m
Highest point: 2,685 m
Trail type: Loop
Start/End: Passo Sella parking lot
There’s also a longer 16 km loop that includes Sassopiatto, ideal for experienced hikers seeking a challenge. It also starts from the parking lot at the Sella Pass and goes around the entire Sallolungo group from the left, i.e., clockwise.
Trail Description
1. Sella Pass → Forcella del Sassolungo
Most hikers take the cable car to skip the very steep start. The ride itself is an experience – small standing cabins lift you up to the saddle between cliffs. On foot, follow trail 525.
At the top, you’ll arrive at Rifugio Toni Demetz, a great spot to enjoy the view before heading down.
There was still snow here in June. Some people came just for the view and, after a short walk, took the cable car back to the parking lot.
Those who purchased one-way tickets (uphill) were informed about the terrain conditions and that appropriate hiking shoes would be needed for the first few kilometers of the tour due to the snow.
2. Forcella → Rifugio Vicenza (Langkofelhütte)
The descent is steep and, in early summer, often snow-covered – make sure to wear proper hiking boots. The terrain is rough and rocky throughout, so it is advisable to proceed slowly and carefully even when there is no snow.
Once the terrain flattens, you’ll see Rifugio Vicenza appear on the left. A perfect place to rest – don’t miss their delicious Kaiserschmarrn!
For us, this was the most difficult part of the hike. We were a little scared at the beginning, so we moved very slowly. Fortunately, we made it down with only a few minor slips, but we were very tired by the end.
Car rental – Tip
Search and book a car on one of the popular search portals and find the best deal for you!
Tip – you can book anywhere, but it is important that you take out additional insurance (if you want to) directly with the rental company if possible!
One of my favorite search sites is Discovercars.com, because there are no hidden costs, you can cancel the reservation for free if your travel plans change, and last but not least, they offer rental cars at very reasonable prices. The filters allow you to select the type of card you want to use, the amount of the deposit and the payment terms.
Car rental – Tip
Search and book a car on one of the popular search portals and find the best deal for you!
One of my favorite search sites is Discovercars.com, because there are no hidden costs, you can cancel the reservation for free if your travel plans change, and last but not least, they offer rental cars at very reasonable prices.
the best day trips to the Dolomites
Why do I recommend Get Your Guide website or app? Because it offers free cancellation. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund!
3. Rifugio Vicenza → Rifugio Comici
From Vicenza, follow trail 525 until a junction, then take trail 526 towards Rifugio Comici. You’ll hike through stunning alpine scenery with ever-changing views of Sassolungo’s towering northern wall.
Optionally, follow trail 526A for a more direct route under the cliff, or stick with the main trail. Comici hut offers sun loungers, food, and even a playground.
4. Rifugio Comici → Sella Pass
The final stretch is a 2.5 km gradual descent back to Passo Sella. You can return via the Città dei Sassi for an easier finish and a fitting end to the loop. This is a really easy section, an excellent way to end the tour.
Final Thoughts
Is the Sassolungo Hike Worth It?
Absolutely. The Sassolungo hike is one of the most scenic and rewarding loop trails in the Dolomites. Even though it’s moderately challenging, the constantly changing scenery, dramatic peaks, and well-placed mountain huts make it a top choice for nature lovers.
Tip: If you want to avoid the steepest section, take the cable car up and start your hike from Forcella. This way, you still get the full experience – minus the toughest climb.
We hiked this trail in early June and encountered snow on the higher parts, making the descent tricky even with proper boots. Later in the season, conditions are much better. Once we left the snowy section, the trail was smooth, scenic, and thoroughly enjoyable.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just love jaw-dropping landscapes, the Sassolungo hike is a must when visiting the Dolomites.
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Read MoreNeed help planning your trip?
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Here are my favourite sites to use when planning my trips:
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Find your flight: Kiwi or use the airline’s direct website
Book your Hotel: Booking.com and Airbnb
Search for a rental car: Discovercars
Stay Connected Anywhere: Airalo eSIM
Book an unforgettable experiences: GetYourGuide website.
Source: Wandering Linda
Photos: Wandering Linda
Affiliate Program: Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that I get a small commission on sales generated through this website. This doesn’t increase the price of the service, so if you found my post useful, you’re welcome to start your booking from the link above. Thank you very much for your support!
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