Tre Cime Hike: discover the heart of the Dolomites with a guided tour
- Massimo Fullin
- May 30
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 27
Why the Tre Cime Hike is a must for every mountain lover?
There’s something almost surreal about the jagged peaks of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. These iconic three towers—shaped by time, wind, and snow—stand like ancient giants in the heart of the Dolomites.
Every summer, thousands of hikers set out to explore the trails around them.
But few get to experience the magic as deeply as those who hike it with a local guide.
As Welcome Dolomiti, we don’t just offer guided tours—we share our home, our passion, and our knowledge with those who choose to walk with us. Whether it’s your first time in the Alps or you’re a seasoned hiker, a guided Tre Cime hike will transform your Dolomites experience into something unforgettable.
For travellers seeking exclusive Dolomites experiences, our via ferrata and climbing tours offer an unforgettable way to explore the mountains.With professional guides, you’ll safely navigate challenging routes while enjoying spectacular panoramas and discovering lesser-known corners of the Dolomites.
Stand out from the crowd and experience the thrill of mountain adventure like never before.
What makes the Tre Cime Hike so special?
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo are part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site—a status that speaks for itself. Their unique geological formations, rich alpine flora and fauna, and breathtaking panoramas make this area one of the most cherished in Europe.
Accessible yet wild
One of the reasons this hike is so popular is its accessibility. The main loop around the Tre Cime is considered moderate, with well-marked trails and manageable elevation. And yet, it never feels crowded if you know where—and when—to go. That’s exactly where we come in.
A journey through history
This landscape is not just scenic—it’s historical. During World War I, these mountains were a frontline between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces. You’ll still find wartime tunnels, ruins, and shelters along the trail.
Our guides weave these stories into the hike, turning each step into a connection with the past.
Our Tre Cime guided hike: what to expect?
Route overview
Our standard guided hike follows the classic loop trail around the Tre Cime, starting from Rifugio Auronzo.
This route offers the perfect balance of stunning views, historical sites, and accessible paths.
Rifugio Auronzo, Rifugio Lavaredo and Rifugio Locatelli
Key Highlights:
Start at Rifugio Auronzo (2,320 m)
Walk along the south side toward Rifugio Lavaredo
Reach Forcella Lavaredo, with an epic view of the north faces of the peaks
Stop for lunch at Rifugio Locatelli (Dreizinnenhütte)
Visit WWI caves and trenches
Return via the loop past Malga Langalm and back to Auronzo
Total distance: approx. 10 km
Duration: about 4–5 hours (depending on group pace)
Elevation gain: around 400 m
We adjust the pace and duration based on the group and weather conditions.
Why choose a guided tour?
1. Maximize the experience
Sure, you could follow a map—but a local guide helps you notice things you'd never find on your own: rare alpine flowers, hidden WWI bunkers, and the best panoramic photo spots. Our guides are trained not just in safety, but in storytelling.
2. Avoid the crowds
Most tourists follow the same schedule. We don’t. We know when the trail is at its quietest, and how to take scenic detours that avoid the most congested parts of the path.
3. Stay safe
Sudden weather changes, snow patches in early summer, or fog can turn this easy hike into a confusing challenge. With us, you're never alone or unprepared.
4. Learn the local secrets
From mountain legends to geology to where to eat the best strudel—there’s no replacement for local knowledge.
Who is this trekking tour for?
This hike is ideal for:
Tourists visiting the Dolomites for the first time
Families with children aged 8+
Groups of friends
Solo travelers wanting to join a small group
Photographers and nature lovers
No technical hiking skills are required—just average fitness and a love for the outdoors.
What to bring
Here’s what we recommend:
Hiking shoes with good grip
Layered clothing (weather can change quickly)
Sunscreen and hat
Water (at least 1L)
Camera or smartphone
Small backpack
We also provide hiking poles on request, and our guides carry first aid kits and emergency equipment.
When to book your Tre Cime Hike
The best season is late June to late September. July and August are the warmest months, but also the busiest—especially on weekends.
Booking a guided tour lets you enjoy the trails even during high season without the stress.
TIP: If you’re flexible, try visiting on weekdays or early in the morning to catch the alpenglow.
Pricing and group options
At Welcome Dolomiti, we offer:
Shared group hikes (up to 10 people)
Private tours (fully customizable)
Family-friendly itineraries
Prices start from €796 per person. Check here the options.
Contact us for custom quotes or special requests.
What our guests say
“The most breathtaking hike of my life. Our guide was amazing—fun, informative, and made the mountains come alive.”— Sophie, UK
“Perfect balance of hiking and learning. We even saw marmots!”— Jason & Emma, USA
How to reach the starting point
We meet at Rifugio Auronzo, which is accessible by:
Private car (toll road from Misurina)
Shuttle bus (from Dobbiaco or Misurina)
Transfer arranged by us on request
If you don’t have a car, let us know—we can help coordinate transport.
How to Book the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Parking
(Rifugio Auronzo Access)
If you're planning a Tre Cime hike, there's one essential step you shouldn't overlook—booking your parking in advance.
The road to Rifugio Auronzo, the main starting point for the Tre Cime loop hike, is a private toll road with limited access during the high season. To guarantee your spot and avoid delays, you can reserve your parking online through the official portal:
How It Works:
Choose the date of your visit
Select Car, Camper, or Motorbike
Pay directly online and receive a digital pass
Show your QR code at the toll booth or gate
How much does parking cost?
Here are the updated parking fees for summer 2025:
Car: €40
Motorbike: €26
Camper / Van: €60
Minibus (up to 30 seats): €80
Coach (over 30 seats): €160
🕒 Each pass is valid for 12 hours from the chosen entry time.
📅 The toll road is open from late May to late October, depending on weather conditions.
Why Book in Advance?
Parking spots are limited, especially in July and August
You avoid long waits or being turned away at the entrance
It's the fastest and most secure way to start your hike stress-free
We highly recommend booking your parking as soon as you confirm your trip, especially if you’re joining one of our guided Tre Cime tours at Welcome Dolomiti.
Got questions or need help organizing your visit? Contact us—we’re here to make your Dolomites experience smooth and memorable.
Extend your adventure
Want more than a day hike? We also offer:
Multi-day hut-to-hut treks
Photography-focused tours
Custom Dolomite experiences
Combine your Tre Cime hike with other gems like Cadini di Misurina for a full alpine getaway.
Book your guided Tre Cime Hike now!
The Dolomites are waiting—and there’s no better way to discover them than with those who live and breathe these mountains every day. Join us at Welcome Dolomiti and turn your holiday into an unforgettable alpine story.
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