Guided Rock Climbing in the Dolomites | Best Local Guides

Top three reasons to go rock climbing in the Dolomites

In 2009, the Dolomites were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Catch breathtaking glimpses of neighboring peaks and summits
A challenging and beautiful range of steep limestone peaks south of the Austrian-Italian border

Limestone, via ferrata, and enough routes to last a lifetime

The Dolomites are not your average, ordinary, everyday rock climbing spot. The area’s distinctive spires, needles, ledges, towers, plateaus, and crags — not least to mention its historical significance during the First World War and unique cultural history — stood out so much so that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 2009. And then there’s the climbing. Part of the Southern Limestone Alps and shared by the provinces of Bulluno, South Tyrol and Trentino, the Dolomites are home to three disciplines of climbing: traditional climbing, sport climbing and via ferrata.

Tackle a near-vertical climb along the east face, onto the southwest face and eventually on to the lofty southern arête of Punta Anna. At 2731m, choose between two directional options — either continue up the crest toward the Terza Torre Pomedes and the Doss de Tofana and on toward the summit, or head to the left, down from Bus de Tofana, and continue on the scree run to path 403 leading back to the ferrata’s starting point.

There are thousands of routes to climb, certainly enough to merit a return trip. We know when we first climbed the Dolomites, we couldn’t wait to get back.

Season

May through November

Nearest city

Innsbruck, Austria, is 1.5 hours away

Duration

1 day

Skill level

Beginner to advanced

Most popular adventures

Spend the day climbing Punta Anna via ferrata or let your guide surprise you with something perfectly suited for your skill set. If you’re up for the challenge of a steep climb, then Punta Anna is the perfect option for you. Feel the excitement as you traverse along sheer mountain faces and tackle a near-vertical climb along the east face. This ferrata can easily be combined with several others that are nearby, allowing you to turn one adventure into several. Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views along the way and have an unforgettable climb with your IFMGA guide.

This is a long and fairly difficult Ferrata – one of the biggest and best in the range, taking over 9 hours to climb! Climb over 1500 meters in vertical altitude and summit Cima Cresta delle Masenade. To finish the route, traverse left along the top of the ridgeline down to the low point known as Forcella delle Masenade. Continue climbing back up to the summit of Moiazza sud. Enjoy great views of Civetta and the towers at the south end of the Civetta Massif. Let your expert guide lead you through the challenging parts and enjoy the success as you conquer two phenomenal summits!

Meet your guides

Alberto De Giuli is a professional mountain & ski guide since 2008. He lives mo...

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Dolomite Mountains creates unique and active outdoor experiences in Northern Italy’...

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Things to know

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re travelling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in the Dolomites, Italy, please refer to the official Italian Department of Health website.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

What you get on this adventure:

- An experienced, local rock-climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
- A full day of rock climbing
- All technical climbing gear

What’s not included:

- Transportation
- Accommodations
- Food and snacks

If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.

The whole via Ferrata routes can last up to 10 hours and require more stamina and skill. Your guide will discuss with you all possible options before determining the exact route.

The Dolomites have plenty of options for beginner climbers with several via Ferrata routes. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the rocks, and most importantly, have fun!

For intermediate to advanced climbers, the Dolomites have loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while climbing the classic routes or best hidden gems the area has to offer.

All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:

- Helmet
- Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag
- Ropes
- Rock shoes (included in the price, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
- Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)

Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:

- Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag)
- Water bottle
- Food you can eat on-the-go
- Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
- Sunglasses
- Camera — optional

Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and prices:

- The group size for these private climbs are usually between 1–4 people with one guide.
- Costs per person decrease as the group grows for private tours, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family.

Climbing days can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

Min. age requirements:

- If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
- Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to climb on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

To get to the Dolomites, IT, most people choose one of the near-by airports. Innsbruck in Austria is 1.5 hours away, Verona and Venice, IT, are just under 2 hours away, and Milan is 3.5 – 4 hours away. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus or train ride to the meeting location.

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or a predetermined location. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.

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