Autumn hikes to admire the Dolomites
6 treks (+ 1) to reach the high altitudes admiring a World Heritage panorama
The first months of autumn are perfect for a hike in the mountains: the light is warmer and the woods are filled with colours that stand out again the intense blue of the sky. It also happens that the highest peaks turn white with the very first snowfalls of the season, making our beautiful Dolomites shine in the sun.
Admiring this show of shapes and colours while hiking on mountain trails is an experience that remains indelible in heart and mind. To help you decide how and where to do it, we have selected 6 high-altitude itineraries in the heart of the Dolomites, plus an additional route, with a view of the most beautiful mountains in Trentino that you cannot miss. Based on your level of training and your willingness to hike, you can decide whether to reach the starting point on foot or by those cableway systems that are still operational in autumn (we recommend that you consult this page to check the openings in each location).
So, get your backpack ready, including a slightly heavier jacket and your passion for hiking at high altitude. Spectacular views are guaranteed!
Before setting out on an excursion at altitude, plan your trip with care. If you are inexperienced or you intend to tackle a route graded as technically difficult, then consult an alpine or mountain guide. You should also contact the refuge warden in the area you’ll be visiting for the latest weather information and to discuss whether your route is advisable. Take prudent precautions, wear suitable clothing for your route, and remember to act responsibly in the mountains at all times.
Panzer Loop, San Martino di Castrozza
Easy loop trail that, starting upstream of the Tognola gondola lift (2,123 m), runs along the historical Panzer trail. A splendid view of the Pale di San Martino will accompany you throughout the itinerary. You can’t miss a stop at the Terrace over the Dolomites.
Hike from Pradalago to the Malghette Lake, Madonna di Campiglio
A very scenic and not particularly demanding high-altitude loop trail through the pastures of the Adamello Brenta Nature Park. You can decide whether to start from Cascina Zeledria (1,766 m) or go up by cable car to the Pradalago mountain hut (2,100 m). From the shores of the Malghette Lake you can enjoy a privileged view of the Brenta Dolomites and, for this reason, this hike is particularly suitable for photography enthusiasts, especially in autumn.
From Pradel to the Croz dell'Altissimo mountain hut, Paganella
A medium difficulty tour, very suggestive and interesting, in the true heart of the Brenta Dolomites. This trail can be covered entirely, and therefore up to the Croz dell'Altissimo mountain hut, or only partially, up to the La Montanara mountain hut. The starting point can be reached easily with the Molveno - Pradel gondola lift.
Stage 1 Dolomiti Trek King of Autumn – Catinaccio
Autumn version of the Dolomiti Trek King, amidst landscapes and forests that glow with golden hues. Take the cable car from Vigo to Ciampedie, and from there, the hike begins, passing by the Preuss and Vaiolet refuges until reaching the Antermoia Refuge. It is a challenging itinerary, and it is important to consider the return time or the possibility of an overnight stay in a refuge.
Monte Spinale - Graffer Hut, Madonna di Campiglio
A panoramic hike from Monte Spinale to the Graffer mountain hut, passing by Lake Spinale, with little total elevation gain and quickly reachable by cable car. During the trail, you can admire, on the one side, the Brenta Dolomites and, on the other, the glaciers of the Adamello-Presanella group.
Dolomites Ronda
New long-distance hiking trail that allows you to walk the Dolomites without worries. An itinerary of 5 stages, in each of which you can choose between an easy route, a challenging one and an Alpine variant. To save energy and be able to concentrate completely on your hike, you can reach the starting point of the various daily stages using the ski lifts, while the transport service takes your luggage to your destination.
Three Lakes Tour – Val di Sole
Pleasant medium-difficulty hike starting from the Alpe Daolasa Refuge (accessible until September 22, 2024, via the Daolasa - Val Mastellina Cable Car) that quickly ascends Monte Vigo to reach the Orso Bruno Refuge. Amidst stunning views of the Brenta Dolomites, the itinerary arrives at the Tre Laghi, majestic alpine lakes nestled among the rocks.
