Sassolungo Circuit from Passo Sella: the giant's loop

The Sassolungo circuit is one of the great loops of the Dolomites, encircling the entire Sassolungo and Sassopiatto massif, passing historic mountain huts and delivering uninterrupted views of the Sella Group and the Marmolada.

It is a long, demanding itinerary suited to experienced hikers. The route can be shortened by using the Forcella Sassolungo cable car for the first section.

How to get there — Passo Sella (2.180 m)

The loop starts from Passo Sella, at 2,180 m, one of the most scenic passes in the Dolomites, between Val Gardena and Val di Fassa. Arrive by car from Selva di Val Gardena or from Canazei along very busy pass roads, with paid car parks near the pass that fill up early. From the pass the historic cabin lift, running since 1960, climbs to the Forcella del Sassolungo and cuts out 500 m of ascent to Rifugio Demetz, handy for shortening the first pull. Arriving early helps you find a parking space and set off with the time such a long loop demands.

The trailhead is in the Val Gardena area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.

Stage by stage

When to go & weather

The recommended period is from July to September, with the route clear of snow and the huts along the loop open. This is a long and demanding hike (EE), around 10 km with about 650 m of elevation gain on foot (or barely 150 m if you use the cabin lift on the way up): the long summer days are essential to complete it with a margin. August offers settled weather but more people, while September brings cooler temperatures, crisp light and fewer people on the scree. Set off at dawn and keep an eye on the forecast: afternoon thunderstorms at altitude are frequent and there is little quick shelter here.

Recommended gear

• Sturdy trekking boots with a well-cut sole for the scree
• Trekking poles for the long stretches of scree on trail 525
• Windproof and waterproof jacket and a warm layer
• Plenty of water and food for the whole day
• Sunglasses, hat and high-factor sun cream
• A map or GPS track of the whole loop, useful where the trails cross

Useful tips

• Use the cabin lift to the Forcella del Sassolungo and Rifugio Demetz if you want to save the 500 m of initial ascent
• The descent from the Forcella towards Rifugio Vicenza on trail 525 is steep and at times slippery: come down with poles and unhurried
• Plan a stop at Rifugio Vicenza (2,256 m) to refuel halfway round
• The return on the northern side follows the gentler trail 526 back to Passo Sella
• Set off early: 10 km at altitude across scree takes many hours and a margin against the weather
• Check the cabin-lift timetable in advance if you plan to use it for the ascent or descent