Lago di Sorapis Hike – All you need to know

The Dolomites in northern Italy are home to countless alpine wonders, but few have captured the imagination of hikers and photographers quite like Lago di Sorapis. Known for its surreal turquoise waters, this glacial lake sits at 1,925 metres in the shadow of the jagged Sorapiss range. It’s not just beautiful — it’s a lake that feels otherworldly, a place where pale limestone cliffs, evergreen forests, and icy waters combine to create one of the most iconic sights in Europe.

The Lago di Sorapis hike has exploded in popularity over the last decade. Once a hidden gem known mainly to locals and serious trekkers, it now draws thousands of visitors each summer. That popularity brings challenges — crowded trails, parking headaches, and environmental pressures — but with the right preparation, you can still enjoy a magical experience here.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your trip: parking, trail numbers, how to get there, what to expect on the hike, weather conditions, photography tips, and responsible hiking advice. By the end, you’ll feel ready to tackle one of the Dolomites’ most unforgettable hikes.

Why Hike to Lago di Sorapis?

There are hundreds of alpine lakes in Italy, so what makes this one so special?

1. The Color – Lago di Sorapis is famous for its milky-turquoise water, the colour is unlike anything I’ve seen before in a lake. It’s caused by glacial flour (fine rock particles carried down by meltwater). On sunny days, the color almost glows.

2. The Setting – The lake sits in a dramaticcirque beneath the pointy towering cliffs of Dito di Dio (“God’s Finger”), part of the Sorapiss massif. The contrast of turquoise water and dramatic grey rock spires is unforgettable.

3. Accessibility – While you’ll work for it, the hike is doable in a half-day by those with a reasonable level of fitness. No climbing equipment is needed, just good boots, stamina and a head for heights

4. Reward-to-effort ratio – For a moderate 4–5 hour hike, the payoff is huge, the views incredible and it’s a picture perfect place.

Put simply: if you only have time for one big day hike in the Dolomites near Cortina d’Ampezzo, make it Lago di Sorapis.

The best views of Lago di Sorapis are from this angle in my humble opnion from the west of the lake – which is how you wll approach it on the walk featured on this page. When people arrive it’s natural to gravitate towards the lake shore, but if  you then head uphill a little you can get the best views. If you have time I would definitely also recommend a walk around the lake – which is easy to do as the paths are quite well defined.

Lago di Sorapis Hike – Quick Facts:

• Region: Veneto, Italian Dolomites

• Starting point: Passo Tre Croci (SR48)

• Main trail number: CAI 215

• Distance: 11–13 km round trip

• Elevation gain: ~460 m

• Lake altitude: ~1,925 m

• Time required: 4–5 hours round trip (without long stops)

• Difficulty: Moderate – exposed sections with cables, ladders, and narrow ledges

• Best season: June – September

• Family-friendly? Yes, for older children with hiking experience. Not recommended for small kids due to exposed areas.

• Dog-friendly? Yes, but dogs must be leashed on exposed sections.

Cortina d’Ampezzo is the closest resort to the trail head start your Lago di Sorapis hike and where I recommend to base your stay if you wish to stay for a night or longer. It’s a famous ski resort in the Winter (home to the 1056 Winter Olympic Games) but also a popular place to stay all year round.

How to Get to Lago di Sorapis

By Car

Most visitors drive to the trailhead at Passo Tre Croci, on SR48 between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Misurina. Distances:

• Cortina d’Ampezzo → Passo Tre Croci: 15 minutes (8 km)

• Misurina → Passo Tre Croci: 15 minutes (7 km)

• Venice → Passo Tre Croci: 2.5 hours (160 km)

• Bolzano → Passo Tre Croci: 2 hours (120 km)

The road is well-maintained, but in July and August it gets busy with hikers and tour buses. Expect traffic jams late morning and early afternoon.

By Bus

Public transport is possible and is a smart option in high season. From Cortina, summer buses run to Passo Tre Croci. These are operated by Dolomitibus, and schedules vary year by year. Expect about 25–30 minutes for the journey.

If you’re staying in Misurina, buses and shuttles also stop at the pass.

Tip: Always double-check the return times if you plan to take the bus — missing the last bus means a long walk back to town.

Parking for the Lago di Sorapis Hike

Parking is available on the roadside at Passo Tre Croci, but spaces are very limited. The parking area is essentially a roadside pull-off near the B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci, you’ll only bag a spot here if you arrive super early. A little bit further down the road from the trail start (closer to Cortina) is this car parking area pictured above – which has more space (and where I park) – click this google map link to see exactly where this car park spot is – it’s only a 5/10 min walk to the trail start from here

Parking tips:

• Arrive early – Before 8:00 AM is essential in July and August, or spaces will probably be gone. Aim for no later than 9:30 AM at other times. If you can’t make early time in peak season – try for much later, 4/5pm – but allow yourself 4/5 hours before sunset.

• Avoid illegal spots – Don’t park on bends or block driveways. Police sometimes fine cars left irresponsibly.

• Alternative options – If the lot is full, park in Misurina and take a shuttle/taxi back to the start

If you want the best chance of a stress-free start, aim to begin your hike by 7:00 AM. Not only will you get parking, but you’ll also enjoy the trail before it’s overrun.

Trail Numbers and Routes to Lago di Sorapis

The main route is CAI 215 from Passo Tre Croci, which is what I feature further down the page, but here are all your options:

• CAI 215 (Passo Tre Croci → Lago di Sorapis)

  • The classic and most popular route.

  • Distance: 11–13 km round trip.

  • Time: 4–5 hours.

  • Highlights: mix of forest, exposed ledges, and panoramic views.

• CAI 217 (via Rifugio Cristallo)

  • A longer, less-traveled option starting from the same area but heading toward Rifugio Cristallo before linking to Sorapis.

  • Adds time and distance, but offers solitude.

• CAI 213 / 216 (Forcella Marcoira loop)

  • Advanced hikers sometimes combine Sorapis with this loop, crossing steep passes.

  • Technical in places; only attempt if you have alpine experience and a map.

Unless you’re a seasoned trekker, and my recommendation for first time visitors is to stick to CAI 215. It’s challenging enough to feel adventurous without being extreme.

MY HIKE TO LAGO DI SORAPIS (Trail CAI 215)

On my first visit to Lago Di Sorapis I went via this route. Before visiting I had downloaded an All Trails map route to my phone (which you can find below) but the trail was pretty easy to follow and I didn’t need to refer to it much – only to see how far left to walk. Nothing is too technically challenging, although there are some exposed parts and you will need a head for heights and it is harder than many people give credit. The route can get muddy and slippy so I would recommend proper hiking boots/shoes. I visited midweek in late September and whilst there were others doing the hike, it wasn’t overly busy. On summer weekends in the middle of the day I think it would be too busy for me an potentially dangerous on the exposed sections when passing lots of people, with long wait times. Definitely go early and mid week.

LAGO DI SORAPIS MAP ROUTE:

I’m not an All Trails User for my hikes in the UK, but I downloaded it for my Dolomite holiday to plan all my walks and ensure I could still view maps in offline mode. The route shown above is pretty clear all the way – but I always recommend having a phone map app with downloaded routes when doing hikes to avoid taking wrong turns and know exactly where I am on the full route. The route I recommend for first time visitors to Lago Di Sorapisis a linear – there and back route, stopping at the shores of Lago Di Sorapis to soak in those spectacular views, then visiting the Refugio to refuel, and if you have time I’d suggest doing a full lap of the lake too as it’s beautiful from all angles. Find out more information below on this hiking route to Lago Di Sorapis.

The start of the trail CAI 215 from the roadside is really easy to find as pictured, and whilst the path does get trickier it’s really easy to follow

Step-by-Step LAGO DI SORAPIS Trail Guide
(CAI 215)

LAKE SORAPIS Trailhead – Passo Tre Croci

Look for the CAI 215 sign just past the B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci. The trail begins with an easy to follow wide forest gravel path as pictured above.

Forest Path to LAKE SORAPIS

For the first 30–40 minutes, the trail climbs gently through larch and pine woods. It’s shaded, peaceful, and a good warm-up. Occasionally, gaps in the trees reveal the Cristallo massif, which are a spectacular sight

Exposed Middle Section

After about 1.5 km, the trail becomes narrower and rockier. Here’s what to expect:

• Ledges: Narrow paths carved into cliffs, with cables in places to hold onto.

• Ladders: Small iron stairs help with short scrambles

This is where hikers with a fear of heights may feel uncomfortable. Take your time, use the cables, and step aside to let faster hikers pass. On most of the exposed paths the trees and plants hide the drops so it doesn’t feel  as exposed. The most exposed middle section is pictured below – which lasts for 100m or so. There is a cable handrail to hold onto. I loved this section – but those without a head for heights may not like it. It’s not technically difficult (except in winter conditions) and best avoided in strong winds. One of the reasons to do this hike early is to avoid the crowds and ensure you can always have hand on the handrail – as passing some people on the outside may make some feel uncomfortable.

I loved the exposed section. Other than seeing Lake Sorapis itself – it was a highlight of the walk and one of those ‘wow’ moments and classic Dolomites! It felt safe and the handrail is there for those who need it. I guess it could only get tricky in adverse weather or when the trail is really busy and you have to pass people on this section. Hence the tip to go early!

The Balcony Views

Once past the exposed section, the trail opens onto a high balcony with jaw-dropping views across the valley toward Misurina and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

The Final Approach

After ~2 hours, the path levels out and you enter the wide Sorapiss basin. The turquoise lake suddenly comes into view — and it’s every bit as beautiful as the photos.

Around the Lake

A loop path allows you to explore different perspectives. The western side is popular for photos of the jagged peaks rising above the water. Please stick to the official path to protect fragile vegetation.

Return

Most hikers retrace their steps along CAI 215. The descent usually takes 2 hours.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Lago di Sorapis

Best Months

• June: Trail may have snow early in the month. Crowds are smaller.

• July–August: Warmest weather, but busiest crowds.

• September: Fewer people, cooler air, stunning golden light. This month is my recommended time to visit the Dolomites

Seasonal Conditions

• Spring (April–May): Trail often snowbound or icy. Not recommended.

• Autumn (October): Risk of snow and ice. Some years possible until late October, but check conditions.

• Winter: The trail is dangerous without alpine gear. The lake often freezes.

Daily Weather Risks

• Thunderstorms: Common in summer afternoons. Always start early.

• Temperature swings: Even in August, mornings can be near freezing. Pack layers.

• Wind: The basin can be breezy — bring a windproof jacket.

When hikng the forest section – when the tree cover opens out – the views are spectacular

Crowds on the Lago di Sorapis Hike

This hike has become Instagram-famous, and that means more people. If you do your hike in summer months and weekends, expect:

• Congestion at exposed ledges (where you may have to wait your turn).

• Groups gathered at the lake viewpoint taking photos.

• Parking stress if you arrive late.

How to avoid the worst crowds:

• Start before 8:00 AM.

• Go on a weekday.

• Visit in late June or September.

• Hike later in the day (after 4:00 PM) if you don’t mind returning at dusk.

Safety, Gear, and Hiking Tips

Safety

• Use the cables on exposed sections.

• Keep an eye on kids and dogs — the ledges are narrow.

• Make sure you know the weather forecast for the full day. Turn back if weather turns stormy.

Essential Gear

• Hiking boots with good grip (it will be muddy – don’t wear your best trainers!)

• Backpack with 1.5–2 litres of water

• Snacks/lunch

• Rain jacket + warm layer

• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)

• Trekking poles (helpful on descent)

• Offline map or GPX file

Optional but useful: headlamp (if starting very early or descending late).

Photography Tips at Lago di Sorapis

• Best light: Early morning (calm reflections, soft light) or late evening (warm glow on peaks).

• Angles: The western side offers the most iconic view of the turquoise water and jagged cliffs.

• Foreground interest: Add hikers, rocks, or flowers for depth.

• Most people head for the lake shore – try and gain some height to get away from the crowds

• Drone photography: Drones are restricted in this area.

Refuges and Facilities

There are no facilities on the trail itself. At the lake, you’ll find Rifugio Vandelli, a mountain hut perched just above the lake shore.

• Rifugio Vandelli details:

  • Open summer months (check dates)

  • Offers basic meals, drinks, snacks and overnight stays

  • Booking required for sleeping (beds sell out quickly)

  • Take cash incase the card machine isn’t working (common)

  • The toilet facilities aren’t the best – especially if you are a woman or need a no.2 lol – think hole in the floor!

  • Staying at Rifugio Vandelli is a fantastic way to experience the lake at sunrise and sunset, when day-trippers are gone.

Sample Itinerary – Day Trip from Cortina

• 06:30 AM: Drive from Cortina to Passo Tre Croci

• 07:00 AM: Start hiking CAI 215

• 09:30 AM: Arrive at Lago di Sorapis

• 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Explore, snack, photograph, relax

• 12:00 PM: Begin descent

• 02:30 PM: Return to Passo Tre Croci

• 03:00 PM: Drive to Misurina for a late lunch

Responsible Hiking – Protecting Lago di Sorapis

The surge in visitors has put stress on this fragile alpine environment. Please:

• Stay on marked trails.

• Carry all rubbish out with you.

• Don’t swim — the lake is glacial and swimming disrupts its ecosystem.

• Respect others on narrow sections — step aside to let people pass safely.

By hiking responsibly, you help preserve Lago di Sorapis for the future.

WHY IS LAKE SORAPIS SO BLUE?

Lago di Sorapis is so blue because of glacial rock flour suspended in its water. I’ve rarely seen water as blue as Lago di Sorapis – it’s stunning!

Here’s what’s happening to make it so blue:

• The lake is fed by meltwater from the Sorapis Glacier, high up in the Dolomites.

• As the glacier moves, it grinds against the surrounding rock, creating a very fine powder known as glacial flour or rock flour.

• When this powder mixes with the meltwater, it suspends tiny mineral particles in the lake.

• These particles scatter sunlight, particularly the blue and turquoise wavelengths, while absorbing other colours — giving Lago di Sorapis its striking milky turquoise-blue colour.

The hue can also change with the seasons:

• It’s brightest in summer when glacial melt is strongest.

• It can look paler or duller in late autumn or after heavy rain, when the sediment levels and light conditions change.

Conclusion – A Dolomites Hike You’ll Never Forget

The Lago di Sorapis hike is one of those rare trails that lives up to the hype. The moment you round the final bend and see the glowing turquoise water, you’ll understand why it’s become so iconic. Yes, it’s sometimes busy. Yes, parking is tricky. But with smart planning — arriving early, following CAI 215 carefully, and packing the right gear — the rewards are immense.

Whether you’re in Cortina for a week or just passing through the Dolomites, make time for this hike. It combines manageable distance with a world-class destination, and the memory of that turquoise lake under jagged Dolomite peaks will stay with you forever.

So lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and head out on the Lago di Sorapis hike — one of Italy’s true alpine gems.