The Serrai di Sottoguda is a narrow, spectacular gorge at the foot of the Marmolada that transforms in winter into one of the most celebrated ice-climbing playgrounds in the Alps.
Ice climbing here is the preserve of experienced, well-equipped alpinists; the canyon itself, however, remains open to all as a scenic winter walk.
How to get there — Sottoguda (1.250 m)
The access point is the village of Sottoguda, at 1,250 m, a hamlet of Rocca Pietore at the foot of the Marmolada, from which you enter the narrow Serrai canyon. Arrive by car by driving up the Agordino along the road leading to Malga Ciapela and Passo Fedaia, with car parks at the entrance to the village. Sottoguda is also served by the Agordino scheduled buses and is a few minutes from the Marmolada cable car. Entry to the gorge may involve a shuttle train during the opening periods, while for ice climbing the approach to the falls is made on foot along the gorge, following the Pettorina stream.
The trailhead is in the Arabba e Marmolada area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.
Stage by stage
1. Entering the gorge
Walk through the narrows between ice-encrusted walls.
2. The frozen cascades
Reach the great frozen falls that draw ice climbers from across Europe.
When to go & weather
The ice-climbing season runs from December to February, when the intense cold welds the waterfalls inside the canyon. The best conditions are found in the coldest periods, but they must always be checked because the hold of the ice changes quickly with the temperature. Cold, settled days are the safest, while thaws and warm spells make the ice flows unstable and dangerous. Those who do not climb can still walk through the gorge: between walls hundreds of metres high and frozen waterfalls, it is one of the most spectacular winter walks in the Dolomites.
Recommended gear
- Waterfall ice axes and technical crampons for those climbing on the ice
- Harness, helmet and a set of ice screws
- Ropes, quickdraws and gear for building belays
- Rigid boots, compatible with crampons
- Technical winter clothing, spare gloves and a thermal layer
- Microspikes and poles for those simply walking through the canyon
Useful tips
- Ice climbing is for experienced, well-equipped alpinists only: on the ice you do not improvise
- Always check the condition of the waterfalls before climbing — they change within a few hours
- Avoid thaw days or those with a sharp rise in temperature, when the ice flows become fragile
- If you do not climb, do the walk anyway: the frozen canyon can be walked on foot and is beautiful
- For a first approach to ice, rely on an alpine guide from the Marmolada area
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the Serrai di Sottoguda without climbing?
Yes — the gorge can be walked as a scenic winter stroll and is spectacular even from the valley floor. Ice climbing on the frozen cascades, however, is strictly for experienced, fully equipped alpinists.