TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO HIKE

Ready for one of the most iconic hikes in the Dolomites? The Tre Cime di Lavaredo, also known by its German name Drei Zinnen, offers jaw-dropping views, dramatic peaks, and a trail tha's as scenic as it is unforgettable.

In this guide, you'll find all the essential details to plan your hike - from how to get there, where to park, and what to bring, to tips for avoiding the crowds and making the most of your day. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a breathtaking walk, this route is a must. And don't miss the bonus tip at the end: we'll reveal a spectacular viewpoint that most visitors overlook - but trust us, it's woth the detour!

KEY INFO

Starting Point

Rifugio Auronzo

(accessible via toll road or shuttle bus)

Duration

3 to 5 hours (depending on pace and breaks)

Trail Type

Circular loop

Elevation Gain

Around 340–430 meters

Distance

Approx. 10 km (6.2 miles)

Difficultly Level

Moderate

THE HIKE

Preparation for the Tre Cime hike

To reach the starting point of the hike, you’ll need to drive a winding mountain road. The easiest way is to enter Rifugio Auronzo into your GPS—this is where you’ll find convenient parking right at the trailhead.

Along the way, you’ll pass a toll booth where you’ll need to pay an entrance fee to access the area. Make sure to bring plenty of water and a snack to keep your energy up. Whether you pack a full lunch is entirely up to you—there are two mountain huts along the trail where you can grab a bite to eat. We personally found the second hut to be the coziest, offering simple but satisfying meals in a relaxed alpine setting.

Details of the hike

The hike around the Tre Cime di Lavaredo is a well-marked loop trail that’s easy to follow. We chose to start in the eastern direction, which is also the most popular route. Walking this way means you’ll encounter fewer people coming from the opposite direction, making the experience feel more peaceful.

If you're lucky enough to have a clear day, the panoramic views are absolutely breathtaking. We had a cloudy day during our hike, but even then, the dramatic scenery made it an unforgettable experience.

About halfway through the loop, you’ll reach the Dreizinnenhütte (Three Peaks Hut), a great spot to pause for a drink or a light snack. Be sure to take a peek behind the hut—when we were there, a few alpacas were grazing in the meadow, adding a fun surprise to the day.

After a short break, continue along the trail. It’s a relatively brief walk to the second mountain hut, where you can stop again if you’d like. From there, it’s not far back to the parking area at Rifugio Auronzo.

Still feeling energetic? If you’re not quite ready to call it a day, there’s a bonus viewpoint nearby that’s absolutely worth checking out. Keep reading below for all the details!

Bonus: Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint

If you're standing at the starting point of the Tre Cime hike, there's a lesser-known detour you can take to visit the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint—and trust us, it's worth it.

Just after passing Rifugio Auronzo, walk a short distance downhill along the paved road. Keep an eye out for a small gap in the wooden railing—that’s your entry point. Slip through and follow the trail from there. The path winds gently through the alpine landscape until you reach the viewpoint.

Once there, take a moment to soak in the dramatic scenery. On a clear day, the jagged peaks of the Cadini group rise like stone spires against the sky—it's one of the most photographed spots in the Dolomites. Sadly, when we visited, the clouds had rolled in, and all we saw were a few cows lounging in the mist. Still charming, but not quite the postcard view!

After enjoying the panorama, simply retrace your steps back to the main trail. If you're curious what the view looks like on a sunny day, a quick Google search will show you some jaw-dropping shots