Lago di Sorapis: the hike to the turquoise lake from Passo Tre Croci

The hike to Lago di Sorapis reaches a strikingly turquoise lake at the foot of the Sorapis massif, near Rifugio Vandelli.

Trail 215 features some exposed sections equipped with cables and ladders: it is not technically difficult but requires a sure foot and a comfortable head for heights.

How to get there — Passo Tre Croci (1.805 m)

Trail 215 starts from Passo Tre Croci, at 1,805 m, on the pass between Cortina d'Ampezzo and Misurina. From Cortina drive up the SS48 to the pass, where there are a few paid parking spaces that fill up very early in high season. There is also a scheduled bus link from Cortina, the most sensible option for avoiding the battle for parking. Given the now enormous popularity of the lake, either you arrive at dawn or you take the bus: by mid-morning finding a parking space at the pass is almost a feat in itself.

The trailhead is in the Cortina d'Ampezzo area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.

Stage by stage

When to go & weather

The good period runs from late June to October, when trail 215 is clear of snow and the cable-assisted sections are safe. The lake's celebrated turquoise is most intense between late June and early August, fed by the melting snowfields, while by the end of the season the water level can drop considerably. This is a demanding hike (EE) and very busy: an early start means less queueing on the exposed passages and a greater safety margin. Avoid it when the ground is wet or icy, as the cables and ladders quickly become treacherous.

Recommended gear

• Trekking boots with a cut sole and good grip on the rocky sections
• Trekking poles to fold away on the cable-assisted passages
• Windproof jacket and a warm layer
• Waterproofs and plenty of water for the 10 km-plus
• Sunglasses, hat and sun cream

Useful tips

• The cable-, ladder- and peg-assisted section comes about 1.5 km before Rifugio Vandelli: take it calmly with your hands free
• Set off at dawn: the exposed passages are far more manageable without the queue of walkers
• Not advised with young children because of the exposure on some sections
• Stop at Rifugio Vandelli, a stone's throw from the lake, for a break before the return
• Do not climb over the barriers to get closer to the water: it is a fragile environment and ice-cold all year round
• Reckon on the full 4-5 hours: out, break and return on the same trail 215

Huts and rest points

• Rifugio Vandelli (1928 m) — Rifugio sulle sponde del Lago di Sorapis, punto d'arrivo dell'omonima escursione. Details →