Lago di Coldai and Rifugio Coldai on the Alta Via 1

Lago di Coldai is an alpine lake on the Alta Via 1 trail, dominated by the immense north-west face of Monte Civetta.

The hike reaches Rifugio Coldai and the lake with a significant elevation gain, in one of the most majestic settings of the Belluno Dolomites.

How to get there — Palafavera (1.514 m)

You start from Palafavera (1,514 m), in Val di Zoldo, along the road climbing to Passo Staulanza. Arrive by car from Val di Zoldo coming from Longarone, or from the Selva di Cadore side by crossing the pass. At Palafavera there are car parks and a services area, with the trailhead near the lifts. From here take waymark 564 climbing towards Rifugio Coldai. In high season it is worth arriving early, both for parking and to tackle calmly the roughly 650 m of elevation gain to the hut and the lake.

The trailhead is in the Val di Zoldo e Civetta area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.

Stage by stage

When to go & weather

The ideal season is from July to September, when the trail is clear of snow and Rifugio Coldai is open. This is a route for experienced hikers, with significant elevation gain in an alpine setting, so it is best to avoid periods with residual snow around the Forcella Coldai. July and August are crowded, also because of the passage of Alta Via 1 hikers, while September brings crisp light and far fewer people. Set off early in the morning to enjoy the lake in the best light and avoid the thunderstorms that gather beneath the Civetta wall.

Recommended gear

• Sturdy trekking boots, suited to the elevation gain and the stony stretches of the upper section
• Telescopic poles, a great help both on the way up and on the long descent
• Layered clothing with a waterproof shell for the changeable alpine weather
• Plenty of water and a packed lunch, or a budget for the stop at the hut
• Hat, sunglasses and sun cream for the open stretches
• A map or GPS track of the route, which here coincides with the Alta Via 1

Useful tips

• Climb up to the Forcella Coldai, above the hut, to look out over the lake and the immense north-west face of the Civetta: it is from there that the view takes your breath away
• Check the opening and timetable of Rifugio Coldai before setting off, so you can plan a stop or an overnight stay
• Pace yourself over the roughly 650 m of elevation gain and keep a steady rhythm in the initial forest, which is the most monotonous part
• Make the most of being on the Alta Via 1 to admire one of the most majestic settings of the Belluno Dolomites
• Set off early: the lake and the Civetta wall show far more in the raking light of the early hours

Huts and rest points

• Rifugio Coldai (2132 m) — Tappa classica dell'Alta Via 1, ai piedi della Civetta e poco sopra il Lago di Coldai. Details →