Lago Di Sorapis Hiking Guide: Passo Tre Croci to Sorapiss

The Dolomites are renowned for their dramatic peaks and turquoise alpine lakes, and Lago di Sorapis is undoubtedly one of its crown jewels. Nestled amidst towering cliffs, this stunning lake’s vivid blue waters make it a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers. In this guide, I’ll walk you through my experience trekking to Lago di Sorapis in late June, starting from Passo Tre Croci to Sorapis.

Why I chose to hike to Lago Di Sorapis

I spent a long weekend up in the Dolomites so I could hike some of the most beautiful trails and train for the Alta Via 1 and Alta Via 2

I found the perfect hotel at Lago di Misurnia and utilized the bus system to go in between hiking spots.

For this specific hike, I chose to drive my car to the starting point because I knew the bus system wouldn’t be running later in the evening and it just felt like a safer choice.

Choose your departure Time Wisely

I chose to hike in the late afternoon because I wanted to catch the famous Dolomiti sunset at the lake. I started my hike around 3:30 pm. This hike took a while and I got extremely nervous being out on my own with the sun setting on the way back, so I recommend to anyone wanting to do this to exercise caution and bring headlamps, water, and snacks and be CAREFUL on this trail (please see disclaimer down below)

Why should YOU Hike to Lago di Sorapis?

Lago di Sorapis is an otherworldly glacial lake with a striking turquoise hue, framed by the rugged cliffs of the Dolomites. This trail offers breathtaking views, lush forests, and a rewarding sense of accomplishment upon reaching the lake. It’s a moderate hike that combines both scenic beauty and a bit of adventure.

Hotels and Accommodations Near Lago Di Sorapis

As I previously stated, I stayed at Hotel Sorapiss, which is near Lago di Misurina and is 6.2km from the trailhead.

There are other places to stay that are near Cortina:

B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina – This hotel is right next to the trailhead and can book up fast, I have actually stayed here and it wasn’t so bad.

Cortina Lodge Stunning View R&R – This is a lodge near Cortina and Lago Di Sorapiss. One of our great friends stayed here, and they loved it. It’s a bit on the expensive side but beautiful for your base in Cortina.

Getting to the Trailhead

I embarked on this hike in late June, starting my day from the Tre Croci Bus stop.

There is a parking lot that is off the side of the road. It is small and you can park your car for free there.

In the summertime you’ll see plenty of cars lining the road, but please when you can, use the Dolomiti Bus system that is provided to get you from your hotel to the trail point. Check out more details here.

Using Komoot to navigate, I quickly learned that relying on apps can be tricky due to the spotty signal in the area. But even without consistent connectivity, the trail’s beauty made the experience unforgettable.

If you are using Komoot please search “From Passo Tre Croci to Lake Sorapis” I do not cover any other route in this blog post.

Trail Highlights and Tips

Starting Point of Trailhead: Passo Tre Croci

The trailhead at Passo Tre Croci Bus Stop is easily accessible by car or bus from Cortina d’Ampezzo. If you’re staying nearby, an early start is ideal to avoid crowds and experience the serenity of the trail, or as previously stated, if you feel comfortable doing an evening hike (reiterating here to always have a headlamp and first aid kit)

There is a parking lot that is off the side of the road. It is small and you can park your car there for free

In the summertime, you’ll see plenty of cars lining the road, but please when you can, use the Dolomiti Bus system that is provided to get you from your hotel to the trail point. Check out more details here.

The Journey to Lago di Sorapiss

The trail starts at Passo Tre Croci (1,805 m above sea level), and winds through forests, rocky paths, and open meadows. You’ll encounter sections that require careful footing. There are some with some slight ups and downs, and the trail is alongside the rocky walls of Cima di Marcuoira Which has very narrow ledges with steep drop-offs. I am not kidding you when I tell you there are steep ledges.

These areas are manageable with proper footwear and a steady pace, but you must be cautious.

Midway through the hike, the landscape transforms, revealing dramatic views of towering peaks and distant valleys. As you approach Lago di Sorapis, the turquoise water comes into view—a mesmerizing sight that makes every challenging step worthwhile.

Off in the distance you’ll see Monte Cristallo and the Cadini di Misurina .

Lago di Sorapis: A Rewarding Destination

The lake’s color is truly remarkable, a result of mineral deposits in the water reflecting light. Surrounded by the Dolomites’ rugged beauty, it’s the perfect spot for a well-deserved rest. While swimming is discouraged to preserve the lake’s delicate ecosystem, sitting along the shore to soak in the scenery is equally rewarding.

Common Sense Tips for Hikers

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to October). Snow and ice can make the trail hazardous outside this window.
• Gear to Bring: Sturdy hiking boots, a trekking pole for stability, and layers to adapt to changing temperatures. Don’t forget water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the lake’s beauty.
• Safety Note: The Signal can be unreliable. Download offline maps or bring a physical trail map.
• Respect the Trail: Pack out all trash and stick to marked paths to protect the fragile environment.
  • If it doesn’t grow there, it doesn’t go there. Pack your trash!
• Start early in the morning: Trail 215 is crowded and very touristy.
• There is an alternative path: CAI 217. However, this route is longer (about 3 hours one way) and has a greater difference in altitude (600 meters). Furthermore, this path is not equipped.
• Don’t swim in Lake Sorapis, it’s forbidden!

Lago di Sorapis Trail: FAQs for Hikers

Where does the Lago di Sorapis trail start?
The trail begins at Passo Tre Croci, about 15 minutes by car from Cortina d’Ampezzo, along the road to Misurina.

Where can I park to hike Lago di Sorapis?
You can park directly along the roadside at Passo Tre Croci. Arrive early during high season—spaces fill up fast!

How long is the Lago di Sorapis hike (in kilometers and miles)?
The round-trip distance is approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles).

How long does it take to hike to Lago di Sorapis?
Expect to spend about 4 to 5 hours round trip, depending on your pace, rest breaks, and how long you linger at the lake.

Are there facilities along the trail?
Facilities are very limited. The only one near the lake is the Rifugio Vandelli, which may be open during summer months for food and restrooms.

Is the trail to Lago di Sorapis family-friendly?
It depends on your group. The trail is best suited for older children (10+) with some hiking experience. Sections with narrow ledges and drop-offs make it unsuitable for young kids or strollers. Use caution and judge your group’s ability.

Do I need a permit to hike this trail?
No permits or entrance fees are required. It’s free and open to the public.

Is the trail dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are allowed! Just note: some rocky and narrow areas can be tough for smaller or less experienced pups. Always keep your dog leashed and bring water.

Is there cell service on the trail?
Cell service is spotty and unreliable. Download your map ahead of time or consider bringing a GPS or satellite device if you’re hiking solo.

What’s the best time of year to hike to Lago di Sorapis?
The best time to go is late June through early October. Avoid hiking in winter unless you’re very experienced and equipped for snow and ice—steep, narrow ledges can become dangerously slick.

How difficult is the Lago di Sorapis trail?
Moderate. Most of the trail is manageable for fit hikers, but there are rocky sections and exposed ledges that require good footwear, caution, and a head for heights.

Final Thoughts

The hike to Lago di Sorapis is more than just a physical journey—it’s a testament to the power of nature to inspire and rejuvenate. For me, it was a reminder of the strength within, even during life’s challenges. I hope this guide encourages you to take on this trail, embrace its beauty, and create your own unforgettable memories.

Contact

If you have any questions about the route, or want to connect with me, check me out on Instagram @kimberlykepharttravels

Disclaimer

The information contained on this website is not to be considered a guide, instead, it is available so that you may have a general idea of what to expect on the hikes listed on this site. I, KimberlyKephartTravels.com, take no responsibility nor assume liability for any information’s inaccuracies, errors, omission, or incompleteness. Please note that the included GPS tracks are also provided only as general guides, and you should not rely on their accuracy, as GPS readings are subject to error and may provide inaccurate directions.

KimberlyKepharttravels.com, its sponsors, its advertisers, and/or anyone contributing information to this site shall not be held liable for any inconvenience, accidents, rescues, injuries or loss of life should you undertake any of the hikes listed on this website.

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