The Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen) hike is one of the most iconic trails in the Dolomites, with breathtaking views of three towering peaks, alpine lakes, and scenic valleys. Starting at Rifugio Auronzo, we hiked this 4-hour loop trail, and can honestly say it was one of the highlights of the region. Here’s everything you need to know about Tre Cime parking, tickets, the route, difficulty, and the best time to visit.
About Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen)
Tre Cime di Lavaredo, also known as Drei Zinnen in German, is perhaps the most photographed sight in the Dolomites. Three dramatic limestone peaks rise 600 meters from the alpine meadows below—a sight that looks impressive in photos but is ten times more breathtaking in real life.
This area sits within a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to one of the most famous hikes in the Italian Alps.
Parking & Entry (Rifugio Auronzo Parking)
The hike begins at Rifugio Auronzo, which sits right next to the Tre Cime peaks. To get there, you’ll need to drive up a private mountain road and reserve a parking spot in advance. (You can do that here)
This booking system is put in place to manage visitors, as Tre Cime is one of the most iconic things to do in the Dolomites. Here’s how getting a Drei Zinnen ticket works:
- Cost: 40 EUR per car (valid for 12 hours, fixed price). For motorcyclists, it’s 26 EUR.
- Booking: Must be reserved online before your visit. Especially in summer, try to book 3+ days in advance. The booking system allows you to book 30 days before your desired date.
- Time slots: You’ll select an entry time (e.g., 5 AM), and your ticket is valid for 12 hours from then.
- Downside: You can’t plan around the weather anymore, as the slot is fixed.
- Upside: This spreads crowds across the day, so the trail feels less busy.
If you can’t get a parking ticket or don’t have your own transportation, there are two alternatives:
- Bus option with car: Park here (14 EUR for the day) and hike up or hop on the Dolomiti shuttle bus up to Rifugio Auronzo (10 EUR per person).
- Bus option without car: In summer, shuttle buses run from several towns (like Dobbiaco or Misurina) to Rifugio Auronzo.
We chose to book parking at Rifugio Auronzo and found it worth every euro—it saved our energy for the actual loop hike rather than the access road.
Read more: best things to do in the Dolomites
The Tre Cime Loop Hike
The entire loop hike around Tre Cime di Lavaredo takes about 4 hours (not including stops) and covers roughly 10-12 km, depending on detours. We recommend hiking it counterclockwise, as this way, most of the uphill sections are less intense than doing it clockwise. Plus this way the dramatic views of Tre Cime open up right in front of you.
Here’s how the trail unfolds:
1. Rifugio Auronzo → Forcella Lavaredo
From the moment you step out of your car, the enormous limestone peaks are already in sight. The trail starts as a wide gravel path that gradually climbs towards Forcella Lavaredo (the fork in the road). This section takes about 45-50 minutes and is fairly easy, passing grazing cows, Rifugio Lavaredo, and sweeping views of the surrounding mountain groups.
2. Forcella Lavaredo → Rifugio Locatelli (Dreizinnenhütte)
From Forcella Lavaredo, the trail continues with some gentle ups and downs before leading to Rifugio Locatelli. This is one of the most popular stops, not just because of the hut itself but for the views—the iconic postcard shot of Tre Cime is from here!
Just above the hut lies the Grotta delle Tre Cime, a small cave that frames the peaks perfectly for photos. It’s a short but steep detour on loose gravel (but worth it!). There are no signs, so you’ll have to follow Google Maps or other hikers.
3. Rifugio Locatelli → Valley & Reflective Lakes
Leaving Locatelli, the trail descends steeply on gravel. Hiking poles help here, but they’re not essential. At the bottom, you’ll find a small reflective lake—a quiet spot where the three peaks are mirrored in the water. We think it’s one of the most underrated corners of the loop.
From here, the trail climbs again, which is long but gradual, with rocky terrain and alpine meadows. We passed cows with jangling bells, which is one of those quintessential Dolomites moments! Look out over the rugged mountains and green patches in all directions; we couldn’t help stopping to take in all the different views.
4. Final Stretch: Malga Langalm → Rifugio Auronzo
The last part of the loop feels much gentler, passing grassy fields, boulders, and even two small lakes where you dip your feet (no swimming—it’s a protected area). There’s another hut here where you can get a final drink before the last 45-minute stretch back to the Rifugio Auronzo parking lot.
Tip: Make sure to bring cash with you. Most huts accept cards, but some, like the one here, only accept cash payments. For that reason, it’s always good to have some with you.
Short Detour: Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint
From Rifugio Auronzo, you can also hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint, about 30 minutes each way. This short trail has become extremely popular on Instagram thanks to its dramatic knife-edge ridge and sweeping views of jagged peaks.
However, be prepared for a line at the iconic photo spot. Even at sunset, it’s incredibly busy! Completely understandable because it really is beautiful, but along the trail you’ll find plenty of equally stunning views—and easier to enjoy. The trail itself is manageable with sturdy shoes and isn’t as exposed as it looks in photos.
Is the Tre Cime Hike Difficult?
Despite its fame, the Tre Cime loop isn’t technically challenging. However, it’s a longer hike, and can be quite steep in sections, so you definitely need a good fitness level.
- Total kilometers: 10-12 KM
- Time: 3-4 hours (depending on stops)
- Elevation gain: 350-400 meters
- Difficulty: Moderate—suitable for most hikers
- Route type: Loop
- Trail type: Wide gravel paths with some steep sections and loose rock.
- Starting point: Rifugio Auronzo
Best Time to Visit Tre Cime di Lavaredo
If you want to do both the Tre Cime Loop and visit the Cadini viewpoint, the best option is to book a parking slot about 6 hours before sunset. That way, you can hike the full loop first and finish at Cadini during golden hour—all on a single parking ticket.
However, keep in mind that the weather can change during the day. Often, mornings have the clearest skies, while afternoons bring clouds or storms.
- Best Season: June–September is the main hiking season when the access road and parking are open.
- What about winter? The road is closed during this season. Snow makes the area accessible only for ski touring or snowshoeing.
Our advice: Go as early as possible for fewer crowds and the best light. Sunrise at Tre Cime is magical — the peaks glow orange while the valley is still in shadow.
What to Bring for the Tre Cime Hike
Hiking Tre Cime is a must-do in the Dolomites! However, as with any other mountain or outdoor activity, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what we recommend packing:
- Hiking boots with a good grip (essential for the loop).
- Layers & rain jacket are essential, as the weather changes quickly in the Dolomites.
- Sunscreen and a cap, especially if you’re hiking throughout the day in summer.
- Snacks & water. Although you can find this at the huts, the choice is limited. It’s best to bring your own (and plenty of water in the summer!).
- Camera & tripod, in case you want to take sunrise/sunset shots together.
- Optional: Hiking poles for the steeper sections of the trail.
Where to Stay Nearby
We based ourselves in the small town of San Candido (Innichen) at Naturhotel Leitlhof. This beautiful spa hotel has incredible views, three pools, a sauna, and lies close to some of the best sights. However, a hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Misurina, or Dobbiaco (all located near Tre Cime di Lavaredo) is also a good option.
The loop takes 3.5–4.5 hours, covering about 10–12 km, plus extra time for detours.
It’s moderately challenging but very doable for most hikers. We think the biggest challenge is the gravel descent.
The three dramatic limestone towers are a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Dolomites.
Drive to Rifugio Auronzo (pre-book parking), take a summer shuttle bus, or hike up from lower car parks like this one.
The best option is at Rifugio Auronzo, but tickets must be reserved online in advance (€40 per car, valid for 12 hours). Alternatively, you can park here and hike (1.5-2h) or shuttle up (10 EUR per person) to the trail.
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