If the Dolomites had a red carpet, the Alta Via 1 would be it. Known as the High Route, this trail boasts jaw-dropping ridgelines, rocky passes, and absolutely killer views. Kicking off in Cortina d’Ampezzo (the Beverly Hills of mountain towns), we’ll spend eight days running through Italy’s most iconic mountain range, crossing ridgelines and valleys, then crashing at rifugios that feel like tiny Alpine palaces. We’ll run, eat, and sleep at altitudes where the air is pure and the terrain keeps us on our toes. But with views like these, why would you settle for anything lower than this?
Run through the stunning Dolomites on this 8-day Alta Via 1 trail running adventure through 110 kilometers (68 miles) of jagged ridgelines, alpine meadows, and stunning views. We’ll kick off the adventure with a night in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Cortina d'Ampezzo before heading into the mountains. After each long day on the trail, we’ll stay in charming mountain rifugios, where the views are as breathtaking as the runs themselves. We’ll begin and end each day with a hearty breakfast and dinner, let our expert guide lead the way, and circle back to legendary Cortina to wrap it all up. With luggage transfers and transport to and from the trailhead taken care of, taking the high road has never been more epic!
Today, we arrive in the charming town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as the jewel of the Dolomites. This picturesque town is surrounded by majestic peaks and holds a rich history spanning over 1,000 years. As a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, its beauty is undeniable. The town’s bustling pedestrian center is within easy walking distance from our hotel, offering access to museums, galleries, and local attractions.
For those interested in history and culture, the Ethnographic Museum provides insight into local traditions, while the “Rinaldo Zardini” Palaeontological Museum houses an impressive collection of fossils. Our running guide will meet us at the hotel before dinner at approximately 6pm to answer any questions and discuss the days ahead.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Pontechiesa
We start with a short taxi ride to the stunning Lago di Braies, the official starting point of the Alta Via trail. The lake’s turquoise waters, set against towering cliffs, create a breathtaking backdrop. Our trail begins along the lake’s edge before climbing steadily beneath the dramatic cliffs of Monte Muro. Reaching Porta Sora il Forn at 2,388 m (7,832 ft), we are rewarded with sweeping views, including the Marmolada glacier—the only major ice field in the Dolomites.
A short descent brings us to Rifugio Biella, where we pause for coffee. We then enjoy a scenic descent through flower-filled meadows before a steep jeep road leads us down to Rifugio Pederu for lunch. In the afternoon, a steady climb through the rugged Vallone di Rudo takes us to Lago Piciodil. We end our day at Rifugio Fanes, a cozy mountain hut nestled in the heart of the Fanes Nature Park.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 19.7 km (12.3 miles), 4.5-5 hours
Elevation: +1,620 m (+5,314 ft), -1,030 m (-3,379 ft)
Accommodation: Rifugio Fanes
Leaving Rifugio Fanes, we quickly reach the scenic Passo di Limo at 2,172 m (7,124 ft), where a serene alpine lake reflects the surrounding peaks. We traverse a rugged mountainside before a final climb to Forcetta del Lago at 2,486 m (8,154 ft), an impressive notch in the skyline. The descent offers spectacular views down to Lago di Lagazuoi at 2,182 m (7,156 ft), a perfect spot for photos and a break.
We then ascend 200 m (656 ft) to Rifugio Lagazuoi, a historically significant location from WWI. Here, we can explore gun emplacements and tunnels before descending past a WWI memorial. Our final stretch takes us through Forcella Travenanzes at 2,507 m (8,222 ft) before reaching Falzarego Pass and our accommodation at Rifugio Col Gallina. There is an option to take a cable car from Rifugio Lagazuoi for those wanting to save their legs.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 22 km (13.7 miles), 5-6 hours
Elevation: +1,685 m (+5,526 ft), -450 m (-1,476 ft)
Accommodation: Rifugio Col Gallina
We start with a short climb to a beautiful traversing trail leading to Rifugio Dibona, where we can enjoy a cappuccino on the terrace. A steep descent through larch forests follows before we climb again. On the way, we explore the ‘Sentiero dei Trinceramenti,’ an open-air WWI trench museum.
We continue to the Averau pass, where a well-placed rifugio offers another refreshment stop. If weather allows, we extend the day with a climb to Rifugio Nuvolau and its summit for panoramic views. Our route then traverses beneath impressive cliffs before arriving at Passo Giau and our accommodation at the Berg Hotel. The sunset here offers stunning views north to Cortina and south into Veneto.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 14.7 km (9.3 miles), 5-6 hours
Elevation: +1,139 m (+3,736 ft), -962 m (-3,156 ft)
Accommodation: Berg Hotel Passo Giau
Today, we cross three mountain passes, moving from rocky trails to lush green meadows. Our route takes us through flower-filled pastures, past grazing horses, donkeys, and cattle. We descend into a valley before climbing again, following Monte Formin’s south cliffs to Forcella Ambrizzola at 2,277 m (7,468 ft). From here, we have views of the mighty Civetta mountain range and a neolithic site.
A gentle descent through dairy pastures leads to Rifugio Città di Fiume, where we stop for lunch. In the afternoon, we traverse beneath the rugged Monte Pelmo before descending through larch forests. If time allows, we detour to see dinosaur footprints in the foothills of Pelmo. Finally, we reach Rifugio Staulanza, our accommodation for the night.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 15 km (9.5 miles), 5-6 hours
Elevation: +550 m (+1,804 ft), -800 m (-2,624 ft)
Accommodation: Rifugio Staulanza
Today starts early as we begin a steady climb through larch forests to reach Rifugio Sonino Al Coldai for a coffee break. We continue to the turquoise waters of Lago Coldai before crossing Forcella Col Negro at 2,203 m (7,225 ft). A descent brings us into Val Civetta, where we are surrounded by towering rock faces.
We pass the famous ‘Wall of Walls’ before reaching Rifugio Vazzoler for lunch. In the afternoon, we traverse forested slopes and climb Forcella Col Dell’Orso at 1,823 m (5,979 ft), a short section with chains for support. A final descent brings us to Passo Duran, where we stay in a shared dormitory at Rifugio Passo Duran (a hotel option is available upon request with an additional transfer cost).
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 28 km (17.5 miles), 7.5-8.5 hours
Elevation: +1,550 m (+5,085 ft), -1,600 m (-5,249 ft)
Accommodation: Rifugio Tome, Passo Duran (shared dormitory)
Our final day on the Alta Via trail takes us into the Parco Nazionale delle Dolomiti Bellunesi, home to chamois and marmots. We climb through wild landscapes to reach the Forcella del Moschesin at 1,940 m (6,364 ft), then descend slightly before another ascent to the Portela dei Pezedei.
The trail narrows along a short, exposed ridge to our highest pass at 2,451 m (8,041 ft), offering views of the Venetian plain. A steep descent brings us to Rifugio Pian de Fontana, where we stop for lunch. We then descend through pine forests to the road, where a private taxi takes us back to Cortina (2-hour drive). The afternoon includes time for a spa visit before our final celebratory meal.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Running: 28 km (17 miles), 8-9 hours
Elevation: +1,500 m (+4,921 ft), -1,580 m (-5,183 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Pontechiesa
Today, we depart from Cortina d’Ampezzo after breakfast, marking the end of our journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Included:
Add-ons
Not included:
This Alta Via 1 trail run requires high fitness levels and trail running experience. You’ll spend 5-9 hours on the trail for six consecutive days, covering an average of 25 km (15.6 mi) per day with up to 1,685 m (5,526 ft) elevation gain. The distance covered on longer days may reach up to 30 km (18.7 mi). The maximum altitude reached on this adventure is 2,700 m (8,860 ft).
Expect to run on varied terrain, mainly on good trails, with large sections of ascent and descent. The routes will have some technical, narrow and rocky sections which might cross steeper slopes, loose stones and scree. It’s not unusual to find snow in certain locations such as high passes at any time in the summer season.
Looking to explore the Dolomites at a slower pace? Check out these hiking adventures!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Essential equipment
Clothing
You must be able to cover yourself with 3 full layers on your upper body and 2 full layers on your legs.
Comfort & extras
Documentation
Personal First Aid
Additional items
Your luggage will be moved each day by a taxi driver. The maximum weight limit is 15 kg (33lbs) per person. Please bring no more than one luggage bag on the trip—the taxi company may charge an additional fee for extra bags. Keep in mind that you must be able to carry your luggage upstairs, as not all accommodations have elevators.
If you follow a gluten-free or celiac diet, please bring supplementary snacks.
Summer mountain weather in the European Alps can vary considerably, but it is generally good. You can expect everything from glorious sunshine to rain, fog, high winds, and even snow. Temperatures can reach over 30°C (86°F) in July and August, but can drop to 5°C (41°F) on the high passes.
As with all mountain journeys, you should be prepared for any eventuality. The average temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F) in the valleys and 5-15°C (41-59°F) on the passes.
Even in mid-summer there is the possibility of overnight snow, especially when spending a night in a mountain refuge at higher altitude.
Group sizes and pricing
An Alta Via 1 trail run can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your Alta Via 1 trail run is Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. To get there, most people fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) or Innsbruck Airport (INN). Depending on where you land, it will take you anywhere between 1.5-3 hours to reach Cortina d’Ampezzo. To get there, you can arrange a shuttle, take public transport, or rent a car.
Once you’re there, you’ll meet your guide at around 6pm for dinner at your hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Activity, injury, and mountain rescue insurance is mandatory, while travel insurance is highly recommended. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.
Basic
Flexible
Super Flexible
