The hikes in the Dolomites are unlike anywhere else in the world. With jagged peaks, sweeping alpine valleys, and charming mountain huts around every corner.

Want an Aperol Spritz in the middle of a hike? Yes, please!

The Dolomites are absolutely breathtaking. It’s one of the most beautiful mountainous regions I’ve ever hiked in. Banff is also right up there.

Located in northern Italy, the Dolomites are part of the Southern Alps and offer some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe.

From curious little hikers to teens up for an adventure, the Dolomites offer the perfect trails for families ready to explore together. This guide features 7 unforgettable day hikes in the Dolomites.

If you’re looking for a mix of nature, fun, and jaw-dropping landscapes, you’re in the right place.

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Tips For Hiking In The Dolomites

These tips for hiking in the Dolomites will make your adventure smoother, especially if you’re hiking with kids.

Parking Fills Up Fast

• Most popular trailheads have limited parking.
• Lots often fill by mid-morning in peak season (July–August).
• Arrive early (before 9am) for the best chance of finding a spot.
• Some areas offer shuttle services, check in advance.

Use Public Transportation When You Can

• Many towns in the Dolomites are connected by efficient bus routes.
• Regional transit passes are often included with local accommodations. Ask your hotel.
• Taking the bus can save you time, money, and stress on busy days. Although sometimes they can get crowded!

Always Carry Cash

• Some mountain huts (rifugios) only accept cash depending on where they are located on the mountain.
• You may need coins for public toilets too.

Be Ready For Changing Weather

• Weather can shift quickly in the mountains. Sunshine to rain in minutes!
• Dress in light layers that are easy to shed or add.
• Always bring a lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker, even on sunny days.

Wear Proper Hiking Shoes

• Trails are rocky and uneven in many areas.
• Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip are a must.
• Hiking poles are not necessary for most hikes in this guide. There is one section of Tre Cime that is a bit steep, but it is only one hill.

Pack Snacks And Water

• Rifugios are scattered along some trails, but not all.
• Bring plenty of water, especially on warm days or longer hikes.
• Sometimes you can find fresh water wells that are on the trail where you can refill your water bottle, which is really handy!
• Pack kid-friendly snacks like fruit, granola bars, crackers, or trail mix.

Gondolas Are Amazing (But Not Cheap)

• Most round-trip gondola tickets cost between €15–€25 per adult.
• Some gondolas offer family or multi-day discounts.
• Worth the cost to save energy and start your hike higher up with stunning views.

Avoid The Crowds

• Start your hike before 9am or after 4pm for a quieter trail.
• Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
• If you’re visiting during peak season, consider lesser-known trails
• Shoulder season is best time to hike in the Dolomites without crowds of people (late June or mid-September to early October). Check snow conditions. It can vary year to year.

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Getting To The Dolomites

Before you can start hiking among the jagged peaks, you’ll need to figure out how to get there. While there are a few different options, we had a rental car, and I can honestly say it made everything so much easier.

By Car (Highly Recommended)

If you’re traveling with kids (or just like flexibility), renting a car is hands down the best way to explore the Dolomites.

That’s what we did, and the freedom it gave us was worth every hairpin turn.

• The roads were easy to navigate, even with the twists and curves you’d expect in the mountains. Just take it slow, especially when you’re winding your way through steep passes.
• You can stop when the kids need a break, pack snacks and gear without juggling public transport, and visit areas that buses just don’t reach.
• Parking at trailheads can fill up fast, especially in summer, so plan to arrive early.

Pro Tip: It’s nearly impossible to get gas on Sundays. Most gas stations are closed and the few that are open don’t always take credit cards. Fill up the day before so you’re not stuck on empty somewhere scenic but inconvenient.

Airports with the easiest access to the Dolomites:

• Venice (Marco Polo)
• Verona (Valerio Catullo)
• Milan (Malpensa or Linate)

By Train

Trains are a scenic and comfortable way to get close to the Dolomites, but not all the way in.

• You can take the train to towns like Bolzano, Bressanone, or Belluno, depending on where you’re staying.
• From there, you’ll need to transfer to a bus, taxi, or rental car to reach most trailheads or accommodations.

This can work well if you’re coming from another part of Italy, but you’ll likely need to combine it with other transportation once you’re in the region.

By Bus

There are long-distance and local bus routes that can get you into parts of the Dolomites, but be ready for some logistical juggling.

• Buses run from cities like Venice or Verona to towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo and Ortisei.
• Once you’re in the Dolomites, local buses can take you to some trailheads. The schedules are limited, though, especially early in the morning or late in the day.

Public transportation is doable, but it’s not always convenient, especially if you’re traveling with kids or want to catch sunrise on the trail.

Bottom line:

We were so glad we had a car. It gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace and reach hikes that would have been a real pain to access otherwise.

Just watch those curves, fuel up before Sunday, and you’ll be all set for an unforgettable adventure.

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What Is The Hiking Season In The Dolomites?

Wondering what is the best month to hike the Dolomites? The official hiking season typically runs from late June through early October, when most of the Dolomite hiking trails are open and accessible.

Snow can linger on higher elevations into June, and by October, many mountain huts and gondolas begin to close for the season.

In my opinion, September is the sweet spot. The weather is still beautiful, but the summer crowds have started to thin out.

It’s quieter on the trails, the air is crisp, and the views are just as jaw-dropping. If you can swing a visit during that time, do it.

That said, like many families, we were working around our kids’ school schedule, so we visited the Dolomites in August. And yes, it’s peak season.

We experienced traffic jams and crowded trails, especially near the most popular spots.

But don’t worry, there are definitely ways to make the most of it, even during the busiest months:

• Start your hikes early to beat the crowds and the midday heat or opt for a late afternoon hike.
• Choose less popular trailheads (there are so many hidden gems).
• Avoid weekends if you can, when local visitors add to the crowds. The biggest traffic jam we encountered was Sunday leaving the Dolomites. Everyone else was leaving too!
• Book lodging and any gondola tickets in advance if you can. You’ll thank yourself later.

Where To Stay For Hiking In The Dolomites

When planning day hikes in the Dolomites, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right home base. The Dolomites cover a large region in northern Italy, and many of the best hiking trails are spread out.

If you’re hoping to tackle all the hikes in this guide, I highly recommend basing yourself in two different areas, one for the eastern trails and another for the west.

East Side Of The Dolomites

We started our Dolomites adventure in a tiny mountain village called Pozzale. It had a very authentic feel, which I loved, but it also meant longer drives to most trailheads.

The plus side? We discovered some great little restaurants tucked away in the area!

If you’re planning to hike Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cadini di Misurina, Lake Misurina, and Lago di Braies, you’ll want to stay closer to the trailheads to avoid extra drive time.

These towns are ideal bases:

Dobbiaco / Toblach: A quieter, family-friendly town, and close to Lago di Braies. Here are some lodging options:

• $$$ Ansitz Steiner – a little pricier than I prefer, but it is roomy, comfortable and has fantastic reviews. Although, if you are planning on working and need reliable wifi, look elsewhere.
• $$ Wachtler Dolomite Apartments – A fantastic apartment with comfortable room setups for families!
• $$ Hotel Almhof – A hotel with beautiful views, breakfast, great room set up for families of 3 or 4, pool, sauna and hot tub! A little farther away than the other options, but not too far from the hikes.
• $$ Guesthouse Rosengarten – Breakfast is included at this hotel that is right in the middle of Dobbiaco/Toblach.

Cortina d’Ampezzo: A very beautiful town that is well-connected and perfect for hiking Tre Cime and Cadini di Misurina. It is, unfortunately, the most expensive area to stay too.

• $$$ Hotel Mirage – Hotel with mountain chalet vibes, a fantastic outdoor seating area, indoor heated pool, sauna and hot tub. It also includes a tasty breakfast.
• $$$ Radisson Residences Savoia Palace Cortina d’Ampezzo – Clean and comfortable hotel in a great location with a fantastic family-room option.
• $$ B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina – This B&B is not exactly in Cortina but nearby and on the way to Misurina. It has beautiful, updated rooms with a great setup for families.

Pro Tip: Book these hotels very early! One of the reasons we were so far from the hiking areas was because everything in our price range was booked!

West Side Of The Dolomites

Some of the best treks in the Dolomites are found on the western side of the region. This is the area to stay for hikes like Seceda, Santa Magdalena, and Geisler Alm.

We based ourselves in Gufidaun, a peaceful little village that was centrally located and made it easy to explore several major trails.

Here’s a link to our place, Edelweisshof. I highly recommend staying here!

There are plenty of charming alpine towns around this area of the Dolomites that make a great home base:

Val Badia area: Absolutely stunning area, although farther away from the hikes. Expect to drive a little more if staying in this area.

• $$$ Ciasa Funtanies Putia – A stunning property in a gorgeous location away from it all! The apartment is spacious and ideal for a large family
• $$ Dependance Hotel Mareo Dolomites – A luxury stay at a reasonable price. If you don’t mind your kids sharing a sofa bed, this is an excellent option for a Dolomites stay!

Ortisei (Val Gardena): Very convenient for the Seceda cable car, but Ortisei can get very busy during the day.

• $$ Residence Cesa Sassela – A beautiful property right in Ortisei with an indoor pool, sauna, free parking and family rooms! Walk to the Seceda cable car!
• $$$ Apartments Rainer – Val Gardena – A spacious apartment with excellent reviews and the pool area looks huge!

Santa Magdalena: postcard views and a quiet mountain village vibe

• $$ Proihof – A gorgeous place with modern and comfortable rooms on a farm. A few different room options for families!
• $$ Haus Tannenburg – Another nice apartment with 2 bedrooms, mountain views and right in town for a great price.

Best Family-Friendly Hikes In The Dolomites

Now let’s get to the good part, the best hikes in the Dolomites that your family will remember forever.

Easy Dolomites Walking Trails

Looking for easy hikes in the Dolomites that are perfect for families and little legs?

These scenic Dolomites walking trails are great for anyone, whether you’re traveling with young kids or just want a relaxed day in the mountains.

Viewpoint Santa Magdalena

One of the most iconic and peaceful Dolomites walking trails is the one near Santa Magdalena.

Located in the breathtaking Val di Funes, this area offers a handful of easy paths where you can wander through the rolling hills and take in jaw-dropping alpine views.

You can walk right up to the charming church of Santa Magdalena and admire the jagged Odle peaks rising behind it (this is what we did).

For the classic postcard photo, follow the trail further up the hill behind town for that famous shot with the church and mountains perfectly framed in the distance.

There’s free parking just outside the village with signs pointing toward the viewpoint trails.

The paths are mostly flat or gently sloping, making them perfect for young kids or anyone looking for a mellow walk with a big payoff.

Lago Di Braies

Lago di Braies is one of the most photographed spots in the Dolomites, and for good reason.

The walk around the lake is mostly flat and very scenic, making it ideal for families and young kids.

The full loop is about 3.5 km and takes around an hour, depending on how often you stop to admire the view (and you’ll want to stop a lot!).

Many people show up at sunrise to capture that famous mirror reflection and avoid the crowds. But we took a different approach. We arrived at sunset.

While it was still busy when we got there, most people cleared out quickly, and we ended up with a peaceful loop around the lake and some gorgeous photos without the crowds.

Bonus: we even snagged a spot at the closest parking lot!

Parking: There are several paid parking lots near the lake (P1, P2, and P3). P3 is the closest, but it fills up fast in the morning. Arriving later in the day, like we did, increases your chances of parking close.

Important: If you are traveling between July 10th to September 10th there are restrictions to drive the road to Lago di Braies.

Between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM, private vehicles are prohibited from entering the Pragser Tal Valley unless you have an online reservation. Outside of these hours, access is unrestricted.

For more detailed information on access and reservations, visit the official tourism website.

Public Transport: In the summer months, you can take a bus from Dobbiaco/Toblach or Brunico/Bruneck. Some routes require advance reservations during high season, so check local schedules ahead of time.

Lake Misurina

One of the easiest and most scenic Dolomites walking trails, the flat loop around Lake Misurina is perfect for families with young kids or anyone looking for a relaxed stroll with epic mountain views the whole way.

The well-maintained path circles the lake and offers plenty of photo spots, benches to rest, and space for kids to roam.

The town of Misurina sits right on the lake, so if you need a snack break, you’re in luck. We stopped for pizza and took in the views. I’d highly recommend it!

Want to turn your easy walk into a mini adventure?

Take the Col de Varda chairlift from the edge of the lake up into the mountains.

From the top, you can either hike back down to Misurina or follow one of the alpine trails that start there. It’s a great way to escape the crowds and see a wilder side of this beautiful area.

Parking: Paid parking available right by the lake

Moderate Trails With Epic Views

Now onto some hikes in the Dolomites that offer a bit more of a challenge and reward you with absolutely unforgettable views.

Tre Cime Di Lavaredo

One of the most iconic Dolomites hiking trails, Tre Cime di Lavaredo offers jaw-dropping views, dramatic peaks, and a trail that lives up to the hype.

You can hike the loop in either direction, but we went clockwise (left from the Rifugio Auronzo parking lot). While many others opt to go counterclockwise, especially if they want to combine hiking the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint and Tre Cime.

Going counterclockwise on the path is usually busier, so if you’re hoping to avoid some of the foot traffic, going left is a great option.

The full loop is about 10 km (6.2 miles) and takes roughly 3–4 hours depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the views.

There is one section with a steep climb between Rifugio Lavaredo and Forcella Lavaredo, so if you want to skip that part, hike counterclockwise and turn around once you reach Rifugio Lavaredo.

You’ll still get the epic views without the challenging incline.

Parking:
You can drive right up to Rifugio Auronzo, but parking isn’t cheap. It’s €40 per car and starting in 2025, an online reservation will be required. You can reserve your spot here. Spaces do fill up, so book ahead if you’re visiting in peak season.

Public Transportation:
If you’re not driving, you can take a bus from Dobbiaco/Toblach or Misurina up to Rifugio Auronzo.

Buses run regularly during high season, but make sure to check schedules in advance. Also, arrive early or expect to wait in a line, these buses get full fast.

This is easily one of the best hikes in the Dolomites, and it’s an unforgettable experience for families with older kids or adventurous teens.

Cadini Di Misurina Viewpoint

The Cadini di Misurina viewpoint trail starts at the same place as Tre Cime, Rifugio Auronzo, but heads off in a completely different direction.

When we hiked this trail, we mistakenly veered off the Tre Cime loop and thought we had reached the viewpoint. The views were beautiful, but it turns out… we didn’t go to the right place!

Our boys were tired at the end of the Tre Cime loop anyway and probably wouldn’t have made it the extra 2 miles to the viewpoint and back without a lot of bribes!

To find the real Cadini di Misurina viewpoint, stand in front of Rifugio Auronzo and look toward the mountains. Instead of joining the Tre Cime loop, turn right and follow Trail 117, which heads toward Rifugio Col de Varda.

The trail is easy to follow and takes you along a scenic ridge, with spectacular views of the jagged Cadini peaks the entire way.

• Distance: ~2.2 miles (3.5 km) roundtrip
• Time: Around 1.5 to 2 hours total
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate, but the final section is very narrow and can feel exposed, especially for kids or those afraid of heights.

The viewpoint itself is incredibly popular, for good reason. It’s one of the most stunning and Instagrammed photo spots in the Dolomites.

But because of the narrow ledge at the end, it gets crowded quickly, especially midday.

If you want to enjoy the trail and take photos without waiting in line or squeezing past people, go early in the morning.

This is one of those short-but-epic trails that you’ll talk about long after your trip. Just be prepared for a little adrenaline at the end, and a lot of camera clicking.

Pro Tip: Combine this viewpoint hike with only one section of the Tre Cime loop (go counterclockwise) if you want to see both epic views with less milage.

Seceda

Seceda is one of the most picturesque spots in the Dolomites, offering panoramic views, dramatic ridgelines, and a network of trails suitable for families and avid hikers alike. 

We began our adventure by taking the gondola from Ortisei, which whisked us up to the summit area. 

Upon arrival, we were greeted by a scenic viewpoint that’s easily accessible and understandably popular. It’s the busiest area, so expect some crowds.

To escape the hustle, we ventured away from the main viewpoint towards the famous jagged peaks. 

Grabbing a trail map at the base is highly recommended, as the area boasts numerous hiking options. 

We chose the trail leading to Rifugio Firenze, where we enjoyed a delightful lunch and a refreshing spritz because hiking in Italy should always include good food and drink! 

The trails here are well-marked and offer varying levels of difficulty, making it easy to tailor your hike to your preferences.

Seceda stands out as one of my favorite hiking destinations in the Dolomites. The combination of stunning landscapes and well-maintained trails makes it a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s paradise.

Getting There

By Car: Driving to Ortisei is straightforward, but be prepared for winding mountain roads. We learned the hard way that parking fills up quickly; arriving right when the gondola opens is crucial. 

On our first attempt at 10 AM, we couldn’t find any parking. However, arriving at opening time the next day allowed us to park in the garage right at the base of the gondola. 

By Public Transportation: Ortisei is accessible via regular bus services from nearby towns. Once in Ortisei, the Seceda cable car station is a short walk from the bus stop. 

The journey involves two stages: a gondola ride from Ortisei to Furnes, followed by a cable car to Seceda. 

The round-trip ticket costs €45 for adults, €23 for juniors (ages 8–16), and is free for children under 8.

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely walk to a viewpoint or a more challenging hike, Seceda offers something for everyone. It’s a highlight of any Dolomites hiking itinerary.

Adolf Munkel Trail To Geisleralm

If you’re looking for a great day hike in the Dolomites that the whole family will enjoy, the trail to Geisler Alm (also called Rifugio delle Odle) is a fantastic option.

It offers stunning scenery, fun surprises along the way, and one of the most beautiful views at Geisleralm when you arrive.

I’ll be honest, finding the right trailhead was a little confusing when we visited. So here’s what you need to know:

• Where to Park: Head to Parkplatz Zanser Alm (also called Parcheggio Zannes) to begin your hike.
• Trail Directions: Start on Trail #6 toward Zanser Schwaige. After a while, you’ll see signs for Adolf Munkel Weg. That means you’re on the right path! Then follow Trail #35 towards Geisler Alm. Always check the trail signs to make sure you are heading the correct direction!
• Hiking Time: It takes just over an hour to reach the refugio at a steady pace.

Along the way, we were followed by curious cows, which the kids absolutely loved. The trail is peaceful and filled with postcard-perfect scenery.

Once you reach Geisler Alm, you can grab lunch or a drink at the mountain hut, or just kick back on the hillside and soak in the view. We opted for a snack break and ordered the peach tiramisu, and wow… it was the best tiramisu I’ve ever had. Truly unforgettable!

There’s also a fantastic playground up at the refugio, so if you’re hiking with kids, it’s a perfect spot to relax while they burn off some extra energy.

This is one of those hikes that’s not only scenic but also full of charm and fun touches that make it perfect for families. Don’t skip it!

Other Notable Hikes We Didn’t Experience (Yet!)

Lago Sorapis – We drove by the trailhead and the medium-sized parking lot was packed! Very busy hike, so go early to avoid the crowds. This turquoise alpine lake is one of the most photographed spots in the Dolomites and it’s easy to see why.

Lago Federa – A less busy option instead of hiking Lago Sorapis. Multiple reviews on Alltrails rave about the apple strudel at the refugio! The trail winds through peaceful forested paths with beautiful views of the Croda da Lago mountains.

Lago di Carezza – Easy 0.8-mile loop. Great if you are already in the area, but not one to go out of the way to get to. It’s a quick and scenic stop with magical reflections of the mountains in the water, especially on a calm day.

Alpe di Siusi – Seiser Alm – There are a lot of highly rated and seemingly beautiful hikes in Alpe di Siusi.

Alpe di Siusi – Rifugio Sanon is a popular hike that doesn’t have a lot of elevation gain, so would be an easy one to trek with breathtaking views. This expansive alpine meadow is one of the most iconic and photogenic landscapes in the Dolomites. Perfect for a relaxed hiking day.