The Dolomites are a breathtaking mountain range in northeastern Italy famous for dramatic peaks, verdant valleys, and tranquil alpine lakes. The range is not only one of Europe’s best hiking destinations; the signposted trails and breathtaking landscapes keep hikers coming back again and again.
If nature and hiking are your thing, then you will love exploring the hut-to-hut hiking trails in the Dolomites.
As if being able to hike in the Dolomites alone wasn’t enough, arguably one of the best parts about this area is that you can add some of the most iconic mountain lakes in the world into your hiking trail! These turquoise pools reflect the jagged peaks overhead for memorable views.
Dolomites Hut-to-Hut Hiking Adventure: The Best Mountain Lakes
1. Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
One of Italy’s most photographed mountain lakes, Lago di Braies is known as the “pearl of the Dolomites.” This lake, set against the Dolomites high peaks, is bright turquoise and designed by the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park. The lake is gorgeous; it reflects the mountains on the surface. For hikers, Lago di Braies is a stunning location for a hut-to-hut adventure. Blue paint on Dolomites hut-to-hut hiking trails of this area brings amazing views over the lake and the surrounding forests. The punishing summer sun up above makes you scurry your way there, seeking refuge tucked within and cool forgetfulness in the nearby mountain huts famed next to the alpine huts. You refuel after a full day of wandering and/or hiking. Hikers can also take a stroll to circumnavigate the lake, meaning also a more terrain fantastic photo op.
2. Lago di Sorapis
One of the most beautiful lakes in Italy (and one of the hidden gems of the Dolomites) is located over 1900m up in the mountains. The turquoise lake surrounded by the Sorapis mountain range creates an almost out-of-this-world atmosphere. A bit of a challenging yet rewarding hike brings you to the lake from the nearby Passo Tre Croci village.
Trek the winding trails through the green woods and rugged cliffs until you reach the lakeside. Set in some of the most beautiful nature, a hike over these split monolithic structures will also treat you with pristine blue waters, but with dark mountains, making it an excellent destination if you want to experience the natural beauty of the Dolomites.
3. Lago di Misurina:
Lago di Misurina is located at the feet of the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Lago di Misurina (Mizurina Lake) is a picturesque alpine lake. It’s a lot larger than the former, at over 1.2 km in length. The crystalline, mirror-like waters are flanked by meadows, forests, and the jagged spires of the Dolomites, which provide a surreal setting for those who hike there.
The Lago di Misurina area (namely, the Misurina, Auronzo, and Cortina areas) offers access to some of the Dolomites hut-to-hut hikes. A popular hike in this area is Tre Cime di Lavaredo, one of the most iconic Dolomites peaks. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views, wildflower blooms, and a parade of classic mountain huts for well-earned refreshment. Both the lake and the trails that surround it make Lago di Misurina the perfect base for a phenomenal hike.
4. Lago di Valparola
A serene glacial lake nestled in the Dolomites, located in the Valparola Pass area. This peaceful spot serves as a perfect starting point for several hiking trails, including the Dolomites hut-to-hut hiking route. With the lake nestled between the towering peaks, the area is among the best when you are hunting for solitude in nature. From here, hikers can follow trails into the surrounding mountains, which offer dramatic views of the Dolomitic peaks. One of the more traveled hiking paths in the area leads to the Forcella di Lech, where trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the Dolomites’ ridged peaks and valleys. Hikers can take breaks on the way with the many mountain huts with local cuisine and gorgeous views. Lago di Valparola is a great spot for both experienced hikers and novices alike to experience the Dolomites.
5. Lago di Fedaia
Lago di Fedaia, at the foot of the Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites, is one of those incredible mountain lakes with a lovely background. It is an artificial reservoir, but its position between the soaring Marmolada cliffs and the adjacent peaks makes it a captivating place. There is another, both the character of a stunning sector and the freshness of a pond — Lago di Fedaia. The Dolomites hut (shelter/refuge) to hut hiking routes may not be as popularized as some of those in Europe, although they provide some of the most breathtaking views the region has to offer. From the lake, a popular and well-marked trail winds up to Marmolada’s summit, where tourists are treated to panoramic views as far as the eye can see over the entire range. The route you walk takes you through alpine meadows, glaciers, and mountain huts where you can sit and enjoy the hospitality of the Dolomite mountain communities.
A Hut-to-Hut Trek You Won’t Soon Forget
The Dolomites are a hiker’s dream, containing some of the most gorgeous and tranquil mountain lakes in the world. From hiking the shores of Lago di Braies and soaking in the turquoise waters of Lago di Sorapis to admiring Lago di Fedaia from above, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to discover. Hiking hut to hut in the Dolomites is the perfect way to take in the stunning lakes, breathtaking landscapes, and rich traditions while immersing yourself in the region’s alpine culture. So tie up those hiking boots, put on your adventure hat, and let’s prepare to explore some of the Dolomites’ best mountain lakes. Hiking hut to hut in this UNESCO World Heritage area will certainly contribute to an unforgettable experience!
