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Read MoreTre Cime di Lavaredo Hike: Complete Guide + Map & Tips
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo, also known as the Drei Zinnen, is one of the most iconic and beloved destinations in the Dolomites. These three massive rock peaks rise dramatically from the alpine landscape, offering breathtaking views from every direction. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, the area is a must-see for nature lovers and hikers alike.
The famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop trail encircles the trio of towers, providing panoramic views throughout the hike. While they can be spotted from various places in the Dolomites — like the Lago di Sorapis trail or even from the Marmolada — the most iconic north face views can only be seen from this trail. If you want to witness the legendary rock walls in their full glory, follow Trail 101 from Rifugio Auronzo (2333 m) to Forcella Lavaredo (2454 m), where the Cima Piccola (2857 m), Cima Grande (2999 m), and Cima Ovest (2973 m) dominate the skyline.
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How to Get to Tre Cime di Lavaredo
How to get to Tre Cime parking lot
The road to Rifugio Auronzo starts north of Lago di Misurina and spans 7 km. Starting in 2025, access by car is allowed only with an online reservation, which must be made in advance through an official booking portal. The fee is €40 per vehicle, and access is controlled via license plate at a toll gate. Early arrival before your booked time will not be permitted; however, tickets are valid for 12 hours if arriving later.
The road typically opens in early June and closes in early autumn, depending on weather. In 2024, waiting times were up to an hour in the morning. The new booking system is intended to reduce congestion.
Parking at Tre Cime
The parking lot next to Rifugio Auronzo is large and tiered, with attendants guiding traffic. Keep in mind: the trail starts at one end of the lot and ends at the other, so you may have to walk a bit at the beginning or end depending on where you parked.
Public Transport Options
Rifugio Auronzo is also accessible by seasonal shuttle buses operated by Dolomitibus and Südtirol Mobil (bus 444 from Toblach via Misurina). This is a great alternative if parking is full or if you’d rather avoid mountain driving.
Trail information
Key Trail Info
Distance: 8.8 km loop (without detours)
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: ~500 m
Duration: 4–5 hours
Best time to visit: Mid-June to late September, especially during wildflower bloom
Trail type: Loop — can be hiked in either direction
Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike overview
Most hikers go counterclockwise, as we did, following the natural flow of foot traffic. As it is a circular tour, it can be done in both directions. We went counter-clockwise, as do the vast majority of hikers, so we could go with the flow of traffic.
From the parking lot, head towards the Rifugio Auronzo hut. This could be a short, quick, easy walk, or it could be a long uphill walk, depending on where the parking attendants directed you.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo map
Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hiking Guide
Step by Step
Rifugio Auronzo → Cappella degli Alpini
The hike begins at Rifugio Auronzo, where you’ll find a wide gravel path clearly marked as Trail 101. This section is mostly flat and easy, running along the southeastern base of the peaks. After about 1 km, you’ll reach the Cappella degli Alpini chapel.
Optional detour:
Distance: ~600 m round-trip | Time: 15–30 min
A small path leads to two memorial monuments with stunning views over the valley and Tre Cime.
Cappella degli Alpini → Rifugio Lavaredo
A short 10-minute walk brings you to Rifugio Lavaredo, a good spot to grab a snack, refill your water, or use the facilities (fee applies). This section is also relatively easy.
Rifugio Lavaredo → Forcella Lavaredo
From here, you can take two routes to reach the Forcella Lavaredo viewpoint:
Shorter, steeper path (left): quicker, more direct, but with limited views of Tre Cime.
Longer, gentler path (right): gradual ascent with excellent panoramic views of the peaks — this is the more scenic option and the one we recommend.
At the top, you’ll enjoy a brand-new angle of the Tre Cime towers.
Forcella Lavaredo → Rifugio Locatelli
From the saddle, the landscape opens up. In the distance you’ll spot the Rifugio Locatelli (Dreizinnenhütte), your next destination. It’s about 2 km from here along a wide gravel trail.
At a fork, you can either:
Skip the hut and descend via Trail 105, or
Make a short detour up to Locatelli Hut, where you’ll find food, drinks, and toilets. 📸 Don’t miss: the chapel, the cave viewpoint, and the small alpine lakes behind the hut (Laghi dei Piani) — all perfect for photography.
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Rifugio Locatelli → Malga Langalm
Once you get back to the crossroads at the bottom of Rifugio Locatelli, take path 105 towards Malga Langalm through the valley. You will now be hiking on the other side of Tre Cime. As you approach the valley, the trail narrows and then begins to descend sharply. Cut across the valley and go up the climb on the far side. This is the most challenging part of the hike. From here it’s not far to the Langalm hut, where you can recharge (it was closed at the end of September). There will be a couple of climbs and descents here, but none too strenuous.
Malga Langalm → Parking Lot
Continuing the hike, you will pass small lakes after the Malga Langalm hut. On this last stretch the view changes further, with the panorama of the Dolomites to the west. Shortly before reaching the car park, the rocky peaks of the Cadini di Misurina appear. After a long straight stretch, you arrive at Forcella del Col de Mezzo, where there really isn’t much left to do.
The trail ends at the car park of the Rifugio Auronzo. From here, you can go straight to your car or walk to the Rifugio Auronzo if you want to eat, have a drink or need to go to the toilet.
Final Thoughts and Tips
We loved our experience hiking the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop. While it’s not overly difficult, the later sections can be tiring due to steep climbs. Expect crowds in good weather, even in late September.
Many visitors hike only to Forcella Lavaredo and turn back — a good choice if you’re after a shorter, easier outing. But if you complete the full loop, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular scenery from every side.
Don’t forget to bring:
Water and snacks
Proper hiking shoes
A camera (or drone — just be mindful of others and drone rules)
Other Attractions Near Tre Cime Lavaredo
Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint
This highly Instagrammable viewpoint is a short but steep 3.2 km round-trip hike from Rifugio Auronzo. The jagged peaks of the Cadini Group offer a different kind of dramatic scenery. However, the final ledge is not recommended for those with vertigo, and there’s often a long line for photos.
Lago di Misurina
Just under 10 km from Tre Cime, Lago di Misurina is a picturesque alpine lake. It’s a great spot for relaxing after your hike, enjoying a meal, or even staying overnight if you’re looking for accommodation nearby.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Just a 30-minute drive from Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the elegant mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo is worth a visit for its alpine charm, boutique shops, and cafés. It’s also a great base for exploring nearby hiking trails, via ferratas, and scenic viewpoints like Passo Falzarego or Cinque Torri.
Where to Stay Near Tre Cime di Lavaredo
If you’re planning to hike early or avoid parking hassles, it’s a good idea to stay close to the trailhead. Lago di Misurina is the nearest option, with several charming alpine hotels just a short drive from Rifugio Auronzo. For more dining and accommodation choices, consider staying in Dobbiaco or the stylish town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, both of which are great bases for exploring the Dolomites.
👉 Check available hotels here or explore my top picks below.
Hotel Sorapiss – Misurina
Located right next to Lake Misurina, Hotel Sorapiss is one of the closest accommodations to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo trailhead. It offers cozy rooms with stunning views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Guests especially love the friendly staff and peaceful atmosphere — perfect for an early start to your hike.
Grand Hotel Misurina – Misurina
Just steps from the lake, Grand Hotel Misurina is a 4-star hotel offering comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, spa facilities, and panoramic mountain views. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a bit of relaxation before or after your Dolomites adventure.
Need 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
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Source: Wandering Linda and https://auronzo.info/en
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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