Lago di Sorapis is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Dolomites, known for its unreal turquoise color and dramatic mountain backdrop. Reaching the lake requires a hike, but it’s absolutely worth the effort.
Together with Lago di Carezza, it was our favorite lake to visit in the Dolomites!
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know — the best trail options, what to expect, what to pack, and practical tips from our own experience hiking there in summer.
If you’re planning to visit Lago di Sorapis, this post will help you get the most out of your trip.
Key Highlights
⭐️ Best time of day to visit: early morning
⭐️ Starting point: Passo Tre Croci
⭐️ Parking: free at Passo Tre Croci, limited space
⭐️ Trail number: 215, or 213 & 216
⭐️ Hike duration: 4-5 hours (or more)
⭐️ Hiking distance: around 12 km
⭐️ Difficulty: medium to difficult
Quick Overview
The hike to Lago di Sorapis starts from Passo Tre Croci, a mountain pass located between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Misurina.
The most popular trail is Trail 215, which takes you all the way to the lake and back in about 4 to 5 hours, covering around 12 km in total. There are also alternative routes using Trails 213 and 216, but they are longer and more demanding.
The trail 215 is rated medium, with some exposed sections featuring narrow paths, metal stairs, and safety cables.
The best time to start the hike is early in the morning (before sunrise). You’ll avoid the crowds and enjoy a quieter experience at the lake. Parking is free at Passo Tre Croci, but spots fill up fast, especially in peak season, so get there as early as possible.
Where Is Lago di Sorapis?
Lago di Sorapis is located in the Italian Dolomites, in the Veneto region of northern Italy. It’s part of the Ampezzo Dolomites Natural Park and sits at an altitude of around 1,925 meters.
The lake lies about 12 km from Cortina d’Ampezzo, the nearest major town and most popular base for visitors. It’s also not far from Lago di Misurina and the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo, making it easy to combine with other scenic spots in the area.
The trail to the lake starts at Passo Tre Croci, a mountain pass between Cortina and Misurina, and this is where most hikers begin their journey to Lago di Sorapis.
Where to stay
If you want to hike Lago di Sorapis early, staying nearby makes a big difference. The closest towns are:
Cortina d’Ampezzo – The best base for most hikes in the area. Plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops. It’s only a 15-minute drive to Passo Tre Croci.
Misurina – A smaller, quieter option with scenic lake views. Also close to Tre Cime and other Dolomites highlights.
Best hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Check availability
How to get there
By car + parking tips
The trail to Lago di Sorapis begins at Passo Tre Croci, about a 15-minute drive from Cortina d’Ampezzo on the SR48 road.
You’ll find a small free parking area at the trailhead next to the B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci, along with roadside spots. Further along the road, there’s another larger parking area. I pinned its location here.
Parking is first-come, first-served and tends to fill up quickly, especially after 8:30–9 AM in the summer months. You may need to park further along the road and walk back (adding to your hike distance).
Since we were sleeping in our car, we decided to arrive at the parking lot the day before the hike and spend the night there. It was a great decision — we had no trouble finding a spot, and we could start the trail early before the crowds arrived.
TIP: There’s a height limit of 2.5m at the larger parking area, which means no campervans are allowed.
By public transport
The Dolomiti Bus line 30 runs between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Passo Tre Croci (continuing to Misurina). It’s a summer-only service, running from June to September. Keep in mind that the bus only runs four or five times a day.
Buses drop you off directly at Passo Tre Croci, which is also the trailhead for Trail 215.
Dolomites Travel Guide
Get our complete Dolomites guide with the best hikes, hidden gems, and practical tips — all in one place.
Our travel guide includes:
🗺️ An interactive map for easy navigation
👀 95 things to do and see
🤩 6 ready-made itineraries
🥾 The best hikes and viewpoints
⭐️ Hidden local gems
📚 Practical tips for smooth travel
Trail for the Lago di Sorapis
Hiking stats + map
| Trail 215 (Out-and-Back) | Trail 213 & 216 (Out-and-Back) | Lago di Sorapis loop (trails 213, 216 + 215) | Trail 217 (Out-and-Back) | |
| Hiking distance | 11.7 km | 13.6 km | 12.7 km | 15.4 km |
| Duration | 4 – 5 hours | 6 – 7 hours | 5 – 6 hours | 7 – 8 hours |
| Elevation gain | 630 m | 1080 m | 790 m | 1050 m |
| Difficulty | medium | difficult | difficult | difficult |
Trail options explained
Trail 215 (most popular)
Trail 215 is by far the most popular route. It’s scenic, relatively short, and well-marked.
The hike starts off easy through the forest and gets narrower and rockier as you go. Some parts are exposed with cables fixed into the rock for safety. It’s not a technical trail, but it requires sure-footedness and no fear of heights.
We took this route and loved it. Just be aware it gets busy later in the morning, especially in summer.
Trail 213 & 216
This longer and quieter option combines Trails 213 and 216 and crosses Forcella Marcuoira, a high mountain pass with stunning views. It’s a more challenging route with steeper and rougher terrain, and fewer people on the trail.
After crossing the Forcella, Trail 216 descends toward Rifugio Vandelli and the lake. Ideal for those who want a more adventurous route and fewer crowds.
TIP: If you prefer loop hikes, we recommend starting via Trails 213 & 216 and returning via Trail 215.
Trail 217
We haven’t done the 217 trail, so I can’t really comment on what it’s like. It’s definitely the most challenging option (longer and steeper). It’s also less scenic.
Hike to Lago di Sorapis – Our Experience
We took Trail 215, the most popular route, and hiked it both ways. We started early, just before 7 AM, and barely saw anyone on the trail. The quiet made the whole experience feel even more special.
The trail begins gently, winding through a peaceful forest with a mostly flat path. Not long after, the trees opened up and we got our first views of the dramatic peaks around us. This first section is really easy, just like Adolf Munkel Weg.
The trail then slowly became steeper, and eventually we reached the exposed cliffside sections. Here, the path narrows with a few metal staircases and fixed cables for safety. It’s not dangerous if you take your time, but it’s definitely a spot to stay focused.
TIP: If you’re looking for an easy hike with equally stunning views, check out the Seceda ridgeline.
The views are absolutely incredible. We stopped multiple times just to take it all in. Before long, we arrived at the lake and found only a few other hikers there. The turquoise water surrounded by rugged peaks felt even more magical in the morning light.
Starting early really paid off — we had a peaceful moment in one of the busiest spots in the Dolomites.
Loop around the lake
We planned to walk the full loop around Lago di Sorapis, but it didn’t go quite as expected. Once we reached the far end of the lake, we struggled to find the right path.
Every trail we tried led us into thick bushes or dead ends, where it seemed there was no way forward. After trying a few times, we decided to give up and head back the same way.
The whole loop is approximately 1 km long and should take around 30 minutes. It’s not officially marked, and parts of it can get overgrown, especially in summer.
Return hike
On the way back, it felt like a completely different trail. We were honestly shocked by how many people were now hiking up. The peaceful trail from the morning turned into a full-on crowd.
Around the lake and especially along the narrow, exposed sections, it got really congested — almost like a traffic jam.
We had to stop several times to let big groups pass by, which slowed us down and made the hike less enjoyable. It made us even more grateful for starting before 7 AM.
Facilities on the trail
There are no public toilets, water fountains, or trash bins along the hike to Lago di Sorapis, so come prepared. Use the bathroom before starting the trail, bring plenty of water, and pack your own snacks.
Make sure to carry out all your trash — there are no cleaning services here.
The only real facility is Rifugio Vandelli, which you’ll find once you reach the lake. It’s the perfect stop for a break, food, or drinks during the summer season.
Rifugio Vandelli
Rifugio Vandelli is a small mountain hut located just above Lago di Sorapis. It’s open seasonally, usually from late June to late September (depending on snow conditions).
The hut serves simple hot meals, drinks, and snacks. Seating is limited, and it can get busy during peak times, especially around midday.
If you want to stay overnight, a reservation is required. It’s a great base if you plan to explore more trails in the area — or just want to enjoy sunrise or sunset at the lake without the crowds.
Keep in mind they don’t accept card payments, so bring some cash just in case. There’s also no signal or electricity.
When to Visit Lago di Sorapis
Best time of the day
The best time to visit Lago di Sorapis is early in the morning. Starting your hike before sunrise or very early ensures you’ll experience the trail and lake with fewer people around.
We began our hike before 7 am in August and were grateful for the peaceful atmosphere. On the way back, we saw a huge crowd of hikers arriving, which made us glad that we had chosen to start early.
Best time of the year
In terms of the best time of year, late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers the most pleasant weather for hiking.
The trail is usually clear of snow by late spring, and the lake shows its beautiful turquoise color during these warmer months. Outside this period, the trail may be closed or unsafe due to snow and ice.
What to Expect with the Weather
The weather around Lago di Sorapis changes fast — classic mountain conditions.
Even if it’s sunny when you start hiking, fog or clouds can roll in quickly, especially in the afternoon. Rain showers are also common, so mornings are your safest bet for clear skies and stable conditions.
Our experience:
We started the hike before 7 AM in August, and it was really cold. We wore warm sweaters, jackets, scarves, hats, and even gloves.
As we walked and the sun grew stronger, we slowly removed layer after layer, ending up in shorts and T-shirts. But once we reached the lake, it got chilly again due to the altitude and wind.
Tip:
Always dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket. Even in summer, a warm morning outfit is necessary. The trail warms you up, but the lake sits at 1,900m and is often much cooler, especially if clouds roll in.
What to Wear
Even in summer, you’ll need layers. Mornings can be cold, especially early on the trail or by the lake. By midday, it usually warms up, especially on sunny days.
We recommend:
- Warm base layer or fleece for the early morning
- Light rain jacket or windbreaker
- Breathable t-shirt or long sleeve for hiking
- Hiking pants or leggings (shorts later in the day)
- Hat or headband for warmth
- Good hiking shoes or boots with grip
We started our hike in full layers and ended in t-shirts and shorts — but were glad to have all the warm gear at the start and by the lake, which felt noticeably colder.
Tips for Visiting
- Start early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks — no shops on the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes — some sections are rocky and slippery.
- Pack layers for changing weather, especially a rain jacket.
- Take a map or download offline GPS — the trail is well-marked but it helps.
- Respect the environment: don’t leave trash and stay on marked paths.
- Swimming in the lake is cold and not officially allowed, so enjoy the view instead.
- If you’re not confident with hiking, consider joining a guided tour.
- Rifugio Vandelli is a good spot for a break, but check opening times in advance.
- Carry a small first-aid kit just in case.
Other Things to Do Nearby
FAQs
Can you swim in Lago di Sorapis?
No, swimming is not allowed. The lake is protected and part of a fragile alpine ecosystem. Its bright turquoise color is beautiful, but the water is freezing cold and not meant for swimming.
Is camping allowed?
Wild camping is not allowed in this area, including around the lake. The region is protected, and camping restrictions are strictly enforced. If you want to stay nearby, you can overnight at Rifugio Vandelli with a reservation.
Is it okay to bring dogs?
Yes, you can bring dogs, but be aware that parts of the trail are narrow, exposed, and may include steel cables. Dogs should be fit, used to hiking, and ideally wear a harness with a leash.
Is the trail suitable for kids?
It depends on the child’s age and hiking experience. The trail includes some exposed sections with cables and narrow paths, which can be challenging for small children. It’s not suitable for strollers.
Older kids who are used to hiking will likely manage well with supervision.
Final Thoughts
Lago di Sorapis is one of the most stunning hikes in the Dolomites. The turquoise lake surrounded by dramatic peaks is truly unforgettable. The trail is challenging but doable with good preparation.
Starting early, dressing in layers, and bringing enough supplies made our experience smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just love beautiful nature spots, this hike is worth every step.
Just remember to respect the environment and other visitors to keep this place special for everyone.
