The Lago di Sorapis hike is one of the most popular day hikes in the Dolomites, leading to a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by dramatic peaks. Starting from Passo Tre Croci, this well-marked trail is not for the light-footed, with exposed sections and breathtaking views along the way. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your hike, from the trail details and difficulty to practical tips for visiting Lago di Sorapis safely and responsibly.
It doesn’t matter if this is your first trip to the Dolomites, or you’ve been here multiple times. Lago di Sorapis is a hike that truly lives up to its reputation. The milky-blue color of the lake, caused by glacial silt, makes it one of the most photographed places in the region. That said, good planning is essential, especially in peak season, and this article will help you decide when to go, what to expect, and how to enjoy the hike at its best.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LAGO DI SORAPIS - INTERESTING FACTS
Lago di Sorapis is famous for its unreal turquoise color, but there is much more to this mountain lake than first impressions. One of the most interesting facts is that the lake gets its milky blue shade from glacial silt. Fine rock particles flow into the water from the surrounding glaciers and reflect sunlight in a way that creates this unique color.
Despite its popularity, Lago di Sorapis sits at a remote altitude of about 1,900 meters. There is no road access to the lake, which means every visitor reaches it on foot. This is one of the reasons the area has remained relatively untouches and still feels remote, especially early in the morning or outside peak season.
During the late summer and autumn months(september and october), the lake dries out almost completely, especially if the summer has been particularly warm. If you’re visiting the lake during this time of the year, you should adjust your expectations.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE HIKE
HOW TO GET TO LAGO DI SORAPIS TRAILHEAD?
Lago di Sorapis hike starts at Passo Tre Croci, a mountain pass located between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Misurina. There are different options to reach the trailhead of this hike.
The trailhead sits right next to the main road at Passo Tre Croci. There is a sign showing the start of the trail number 215, pointing towards Lago di Sorapis and Rifugio Vandelli.
By Car
The easiest and most convenient way to reach this hike is by driving. It is approximately a 20 minute drive from Cortina d’Ampezzo or 10 minutes if you’re driving from Misurina. All you need to do is drive SR48 until you reach Passo Tre Croci. Along the way, you will see beautiful mountain views.
🅿️ Parking: There is very limited parking lot near the trailhead and it tends to fill up quite fast. In addition, most of the parking spots are on the side of the road, so be careful when parking your car there.
Parking near the Trailhead
There are three different possibilities for parking near Lago di Sorapis Trailhead. The official parking at Passo Tre Croci is very small and it consists of a few parking spots along the road next to the beginning of the hike. There are a few additional parking spot next to B&B Passo Tre Croci Cortina (most of this parking lot is reserved to hotel guests). These spots fill up really fast, so you will have to get there almost at dawn to get one of them.
There is a second parking lot with a lot more space a few hundred meters along the road. From this parking lot, you have a 5 minute but very steep uphill until the official begining of the hike. The path goes through a forested area so it is quite nice.
There is a third and huge parking lot further down the road. If the other two are full, you will definitely find a place to park here. However, from this parking lot, you will have to walk for 1,3 km uphill until you reach the trailhead.
Unfortunately, when we did this hike the first two parkings were full so our only option was to park in the furthest one… It was a bit frustrating since we arrived at 8h30 but this was the only option. If you want to park in the other two, getting up early is the way to go.
By Public Transport
During the summer season, buses run between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Misurina, with stops near Passo Tre Croci. This is a good option if you prefer not to drive or if parking is full. All you have to do is take bus line 51 from Dolomiti bus. Bus schedules vary depending on the season, so it is best to check current timetables in advance.
From the bus station, the trailhead is just a short walk away.
WHAT EQUIPMENT DO YOU NEED FOR THE LAGO DI SORAPIS HIKE?
The Lago di Sorapis hike may be on the shorter side, but it still requires proper equipment. Parts of the trail are narrow and exposed so do not take this hike lightly. Having the right gear will help you stay safe and enjoy the hike comfortably.
- Hiking shoes or boots. Sturdy hiking shoes with a good grip are essential on this trail. The path includes rocky sections, loose gravel, and exposed ledges where a good grip matters. Some parts of the trail are also a bit slippery. Be careful! I saw some people taking unnecessary risks and falling to the ground because they were not wearing appropriate shoes.
- Weather-appropriate clothing. We were very lucky to do this hike on a sunny and warm day. However, it is always recommended to dress in layers, since weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Gloves. These are not mandatory but can be useful with the fixed cables along the exposed parts of the trail.
- Water and Snacks. There are no water sources along the trail, so bring enough water for the entire hike. You can get some food and drinks at Rifugio Vandelli but get ready to wait in line. I was low on energy and needed a sugary drink before starting the return hike and we had to wait in line for 30 minutes to get it.
- Sun protection. There is little shad on the trail, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Trekking Poles. These will be handy during the initial and final part of the trail but you will have to stow the away in the exposed middle section.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HIKE TO LAGO DI SORAPIS?
The best time to hike to Lago di Sorapis is from late June to September, when the trail is usually fre of snow and safe to hike without special equipment.
- Summer (July to August). Summer is the most popular time to hike to Lago di Sorapis. The trail is fully accessible, and the lake shows its famous turquoise color at its brightest. Days are long, and weather conditions are generally stable. However, this is the busiest season too. The trail and lake area can be become very crowded, especially between late morning and early afternoon. To enjoy a quieter experience, start your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
- Late spring and early summer (June). Snow may still be present in shaded sections, but conditions improve quickly as summer approaches. This peroid offers fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Always check trail conditions before starting your hike.
- Early Autumn (September to Early October). Early autumn also comes with its risks. Days are shorter and the lake sometimes dries out during these months.
LAGO DI SORAPIS HIKE
HIKE STATS
Trail Start/End – Passo Tre Croci. There are very limited parking spots near the trailhead. Get there really early to secure one.
Distance – 12,7 km
Elevation Gain – 598 m
Level – Moderate to Hard
Route Type – Out & Back
Estimated Time Needed – 4 to 5 hours (including plenty of time to stop for photos). Remember to be safe and not take unnecesary risks.
Best Time To Visit – June to September to ensure best weather conditions.
HIKE MAP
I always use the AllTrails App during my hikes. The app has a GPX map that can help you stay on the right trail during your hikes. For this hike, we followed the Lago di Sorapis via Passo Tre Croci Trail.
MY EXPERIENCE HIKING TO LAGO DI SORAPIS - STEP BY STEP GUIDE
Parking Problems
Our start of the hike was not the best, despite arriving quite early at the trailhead (we were there at 8:30), we found the two parking lots full so we had no other alternative than parking at the last parking lot which is 1,5 km away from the trailhead. This meant that we would have to make our hike 3 kilometers longer…
Luckily, the connection between the parking lot and the start of the hike was through a side forested trail and we didn’t have to walk on the side of the road, which is not always safe.
Trailhead And Forested Part Of The Hike
Once we reached the actual trailhead, it was time to start our hike. The first part of the hike is slightly downhill through a bit meadow. This part doesn’t last long and soon enough you enter a forested area.
The forested area has some light uphills here and there. The trail is wide and has some gravel on it. You have to cross a few rock slides, one with a small stream of water. However, this part of the trail is mostly easy.
Steep Middle Section
After approximately 2 kilometers, you reach the first steep uphill. The trail narrows down a bit, but apart from the incline it is still quite manageable. We just took it slow and stopped once or twice to catch our breath and enjoy the views.
After this steep uhphill, the complicated and exposed part begins. You have to go up some metallic stairs, do a bit of rock scrambling and make use of some fixed cables to help you up. All in all, this part is not too complicated, except for the fact that the trail is really crowded and some people seem to be in a rush to reach the lake.
In all honesty, at some parts, we felt a bit rushed by the people behind us or coming the other way to move faster so that they could pass. I would recommend that you ignore these people and take it at your own pace. If you feel rushed, let them pass and be safe. I saw some people taking some big risks in this section just to go faster.
I didn’t take much photos of this section because I felt like it was too crowded and didn’t want to take any unnecessary risks. However, this section doesn’t last very long, it is more or less between kilometers 3 and 4 and with some patience and safety precautions it can be done.
Reaching The Lake
After approximately 1 km, the exposed part ends and you go again through a forested part. The trail remains mostly uphill and narrow until you reach the lake. If you have hiking poles, you can take them out again to help you navigate this part.
Right before you reach the lake, you will reach a big rock and the trail will split into two. If you want to go directly to Lago di Sorapis, take the right trail and if you want to head to Rifugio Vandelli, go left. We decided to go directly to the lake so we continued right.
Our first impression of the lake was a bit dissapointing since it was quite crowded. Just don’t dispair, most people stay in this first part of the lake, but if you go a bit further, it is way less busy.
Hiking Around Lago Di Sorapis
Lago di Sorapis is absolutely stunning. The light blue water is just stunning and feels unreal. Since the moment we saw it, I could totally understand why it is such a popular trail.
As mentioned before, most people arrive at the lake and just stay at this first part of the lake. Here is where you can take the most famous photos you have probably seen in social media. If you want to take this photos, you will have to wait in line to get them, but I wouldn’t worry too much about it. A few meters further, you can get almost the same view without having to wait.
Once you’re happy with your photos, we found ourselves a little spot overlooking the lake where we relaxed and ate our lunch.
If you’re not too tired, I recommend hiking around Lago di Sorapis. This will add 1.1 kilometers to your hike but it is totally worth it. You will have to do some additional uphill walking since the opposite of the lake there is no trail on the shore. However, you will get to get some amazing views of the lake from above. And what’s even better, you will be completely alone! This was my favorite part of the lake!
Rifugio Vandelli
Before you start your return hike back to your car, you make a short detour to Rifugio Vandelli. This rifugio is located just a few minutes off from the main trail and Lago di Sorapis.
At Rifugio Vandelli, you can get something to eat (if you didn’t bring a picnic lunch like we did, refill your water bottles, or use the bathrooms. In my case, the day we hiked to Lago di Sorapis was super warm and I wasn’t feeling my best, so we decided to stop at the rifugio to get a cold drink with some sugar. We had to wait almost half an hour in line to get our drinks, but I really needed my extra energy!
The views from Rifugio Vandelli are quite nice though! You even get to see Tre Cime Di Lavaredo from the rifugio!
The Return Hike
To get back to your car, you have two different options. You can retrace your steps and go back the same way you came, or if you are up for a steep uphill, you can make the hike a loop and go back to via Forcella Marcoria. Choosing this second option, doesn’t make a big difference in distance, but it does add a significant elevation gain. If you want to do so, you can follow this trail, just make sure you are physically ready for it.
In our case, since I was not having my best hiking day, we decided to get back to the car the same way we had arrived. I have to admit that the return hike was less crowded as the outbound hike, so we did enjoy it a lot more. In addition, you get stunning views of the Dolomites (including Tre Cime di Lavaredo) the whole way.
OTHER THINGS TO DO AFTER LAGO DI SORAPIS HIKE
Looking for activities to do after your hike? Here are a few suggestions that you might consider.
- Visit Cortina d’Ampezzo. Cortina d’Ampezzo is the most important town in the Eastern Dolomites and it is surrounded by some impressive peaks. At some point of your trip, you should make some time to explore it.
- Lago di Son Forca. Another option is to take the Rio Gere – Son Forca chairlift and do a short walk to Lago Son Forca. Another small and beautiful lake located at the feet of Mount Cristallo.
- Lago di Misurina. Another good option is to visit Lago di Misurina, another beautiful lake located just 10 minutes away from the hike.
LAGO DI SORAPIS: FAQ
IS LAGO DI SORAPIS HIKE WORTH IT?
In my opinion, yes! Lago di Sorapis is worth it! However, you should adapt your expectations about this hike. You will definitely not be alone here. If you have no problem with this, then you should definitely include this hike in your Dolomites itinerary.
IS LAGO DI SORAPIS HIKE DANGEROUS?
This trail has some narrow and exposed parts with a big drop on the other side. There are some fixed cables to help you pass through this areas.
In my opinion, what makes this hike dangerous is the big crowds rushing to get to the lake. I recommend to have a bit of patience in this part and wait for less crowded moments to pass these parts. Alternative, target to do this hike really early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
should you do this hike if you are scared of hikes?
I would not recommend doing this hike if you’re not sure-footed or if you are scared of hikes. As mentioned before, there are some steep and exposed areas with a big drop on your side. In addition, there are a lot of people on the trail during the middle part of the day.
HOW CAN i AVOID THE CROWDS?
Start your hike really early (at dawn) to avoid the crowds. Alternatively, start your hike in the late afternoon. At these times, there is fewer people on the trail.
CAN YOU SWIM AT LAGO DI SORAPIS?
No, it is not allowed to swim at Lago di Sorapis. Help preserve this beautiful natural spot and don’t swim in it.
IS THERE A TOILET ALONG THE TRAIL?
No, there are no toilets along the trail. The only toilet available is at Rifugio Vandelli next to the lake.
WHERE TO STAY NEAR LAGO DI SORAPIS?
The most convenient places to stay near Lago di Sorapis are either in Cortina d’Ampezzo (15-minutes drive) or Misurina (10-minute drive). However, both of these towns are quite expensive during the high season. If you want to save some money, you will have to look for accommodation a bit outside them.
B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci
B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci is located right next to Lago di Sorapis Trailhead. You’ll have absolutely no problem in beating the crowds! Additionally, you will not have to worry about parking either! The hotel has a reserved parking area for hotel guests.
Photos from Booking.com
Hotel Croda Rossa
Hotel Croda Rossa is a charming hotel with a great location. The hotel is located on a beautiful valley with great views of Monte Cristallo. Rooms were spacious and comfortable. The garden is perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking in the Dolomites.
We stayed at this hotel for 6 nights and had a fantastic day here. The only downside to this hotel was the food which was not very good. We solved it by having dinner either at Cortina or Dobbiaco.
MAP WITH ALL LOCATIONS
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Click the star next to the map title to add this map to your google maps account. To view it on your phone while traveling, open Google Maps, click on the menu button and go to “Your Places”, click on Maps and you’ll see this map in your list.
HIKE SUMMARY AND INFOGRAPHIC
FINAL THOUGHTS
The Lago di Sorapis hike is a rewarding experience that combines dramatic scenery with one of the most unique lake colors in the Dolomites. While the trail is not too long, it requires some attention and proper preparation due to its exposed sections and the heavy people traffic. You should not underestimate this hike, although it should be ok for people who are used to hiking in mountain paths.
If you start really early, you should have an enjoyable experience. Just be careful on the exposed areas and always stay safe! It is not worth it taking unnecessary risk just to get to the lake before other people. I arrived at the lake during its busiest time of the day and was still capable to enjoy it!
Have you hiked to Lago di Sorapis? What were your thoughts on this hike? I would love to hear from you in the comments section.
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