After seeing photo after photo of the lake’s otherworldly turquoise water framed by jagged Dolomite peaks, I finally set out to find out if Lago Di Sorapis was that blue.
What I discovered was a trail that was breathtaking and a little nerve-wracking—one that pushed and rewarded me in equal measure.
In this post, I’m sharing my honest experience hiking to Lago di Sorapis solo in late June, starting from the Passo Tre Croci trailhead, I have included its difficulty, trail information, and of course embedded maps from Komoot!
Whether you’re planning this hike as part of a longer Dolomites itinerary or tackling it as a day hike from Cortina d’Ampezzo, this guide will help you prepare with practical tips, trail info, and what to expect on the journey.
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Table of Contents
Lago Di Sorapis Trail Information and Difficulty (for the reader who skims)
- Trail Head Start: Google Map Pin You should keep reading though to find out about safety info
- Length: 11 km
- Difference in altitude: 300 m
- Minimum altitude: 1805 m
- Maximum altitude: 1926m
- Travel time: 4 hours
- Difficulty: E (hiking) with some exposed sections
- CAI trail sign: 215
- Tobacco map n° 3
- Water: Vandelli Refuge
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 between hiking spots that were further out.
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.
Good thing I did this because I didn’t finish the hike until about 10 pm. The dolomites at night take on a different feeling!
When to Hike to Lago di Sorapis from Passo Tre Croci
I chose to hike in the late afternoon because I wanted to catch the famous Dolomiti sunset at the lake. If you don’t want to read my other blog posts, there is this famous Alpen Glow that occurs and refracts off the peaks. Need a visual?
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 that anyone wanting to do this to exercise caution and bring headlamps, water, and snacks and be CAREFUL on this trail (please see my disclaimer down below)
Seasons to Hike Lago Di Sorapis
June-October as this is the prime season and there aren’t many risk factors like ice.
Why Hike to Lago di Sorapis in the Dolomites?
For the lake and it’s colors!
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.
But please, remember Leave NO Trace!
Hotels and Accommodations Near Lago Di Sorapis
I stayed at Hotel Sorapiss, which is located near Lago di Misurina, just over 6 km from the trailhead.
Here are two more nearby options:
- B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina – Located right next to the trailhead. It books up quickly but is extremely convenient. If you would like to know about my experience here, Where to Stay in the Dolomites: My favorite Hotels I Have Stayed At
- Cortina Lodge Stunning View R&R – A more upscale option near Cortina. Friends of mine stayed here and loved the views and comfort.
How to Get to Lago di Sorapis Trailhead
The hike begins at Passo Tre Croci, about 15 minutes by car from Cortina d’Ampezzo.
There’s a small roadside parking area at the trailhead, but it fills up quickly in summer. Parking is free.
Whenever possible, use the Dolomiti Bus system to reach the trailhead. It’s an efficient way to reduce traffic and environmental impact. Just be sure to check return times so you don’t get stranded.
Using Komoot to navigate, I quickly realized that cell service is unreliable in the area.
Download offline maps in advance or bring a paper map.
Lago di Sorapis Trail Information at a Glance
- Trail number: CAI 215
- Distance: 11 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 300 m
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate, with some exposed sections
- Altitude range: 1805 m to 1926 m
- Water source: Rifugio Vandelli (seasonal)
- Map: Tabacco n° 3
Komoot Map & Link
On Komoot? Use this link to get to the hike and save it in your Hikes! You can even download the GPX file to save and use while offline.
What to Expect on the Lago di Sorapis Hike
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.
You will probably do what I did and let out big “WHOA” when you see the blue hue of the lake.
There is no way to describe that moment when you see Lago Di Sorapis.
Off in the distance, you’ll see Monte Cristallo and the Cadini di Misurina .
Tips for Hiking to Lago di Sorapis
- Best season for Lago Di Sorapis: Late June through early October
- Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and ensure daylight on your return
- Bring: Hiking boots, layers, snacks, water, a headlamp, and a downloaded offline map
- Avoid: Swimming in the lake—it’s strictly forbidden
- Respect the trail: Pack out everything you bring in
- Please don’t risk anything happening to you by not preparing yourself.
Lago di Sorapis Trail: Frequently Asked Questions
- Where does the Lago di Sorapis hike begin? At Passo Tre Croci, about 15 minutes from Cortina d’Ampezzo.
- Is there parking at the Lago di Sorapis trailhead? Yes, roadside parking is available but fills up quickly.
- How long is the Lago di Sorapis hike? Approximately 11 km round trip (6.8 miles).
- How difficult is the trail to Lago di Sorapis? Moderate, with some rocky and narrow sections. Suitable for fit hikers with proper gear.
- Are there facilities along the Lago di Sorapis trail? Rifugio Vandelli near the lake may be open during summer for food and restrooms.
- Is the trail to Lago di Sorapis dog-friendly? Yes, but be mindful of rocky and narrow parts. Keep your dog leashed and bring water. I would really rethink bringing a dog with you though.
- Is there cell service on the Lago di Sorapis hike? Signal is spotty. Download maps in advance.
Final Thoughts: Is Hiking to Lago di Sorapis Worth It?
I feel like all that’s needed here is a resounding DUH, YES IT IS!
Contact
If you have any questions about the route or want to connect with me, check me out on Instagram @kimberlykepharttravels
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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.
Check out my other Blog Posts related to the Dolomites
- A First Timers Guide to the Dolomites :How to Plan your trip and where to stay!
- The Best Hotels in The Dolomites
- Solo Hiking the Stunning Alta Via 1 & 2 with Bookatrekking
- Lago Di Sorapis Hiking Guide: Passo Tre Croci to Sorapiss
- What to Expect while staying at Rifugios in the Dolomites
- Your Ultimate Guide to Bolzano and Merano Christmas Markets
- Rango Christmas Market in Garda-Trentino, Italy
- Five of the Best Hikes in the Italian Dolomites You Can Do Near Cortina D’ Ampezzo
- Cadini di Misurina: The Viral Dolomites Viewpoint That’s Not Worth Your Time
- Snowshoeing in the Dolomites: An Epic Guided Adventure Around Cinque Torri
