End point: circuit route
Altitude gain/loss: 300 m.
Difficulty level: E (straightforward)
Hike duration: 5 hours
Waymarking: 101- 105
Stop off points: Rifugio Auronzo, rifugio Lavaredo e rifugio Locatelli
Itinerary:
This loop around Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most spectacular hikes in the Dolomites and attracts a huge number of hikers, climbers and nature lovers. Its limited altitude gain and loss and good waymarking make it ideal for less fit hikers too. Rifugio Auronzo, 2320 metres above sea level, is the starting point and can be reached by car or bus. From the Rifugio Auronzo car park continue eastwards following footpath 101 to Rifugio Lavaredo and then continue, climbing gently now, to Forcella Lavaredo. Stop a moment here for its famous views of the imposing north face of the Tre Cime.
Continue in the direction of Rifugio Locatelli now. After a gentle descent the path continues on the level at the foot of Mt Paterno and lastly uphill to Rifugio Locatelli at 2438 m., a very popular mountain hut in summer. Here too the views of these rocky giants is spectacular.
From Rifugio Locatelli continue on footpath 105 in the direction of Malga Lunga / Lange Alm. Just above this little mountain hut is the source of the Rienza stream and the Tre Cime tarns. From here the footpath continues westwards at the foot of Cima Ovest, with a few exposed sections, to the starting point.
