KEY TRAIL STATS for “CLASSIC” ROUTE

• Country: Italy

• Number of days: Typically 10 - 14

• Distance: 167 km / 104 mi

• Elevation gain: 11,400 m / 37,500 ft (South direction)

• Highest point: 2,907 m / 9,537 ft (L’Antersas near Rifugio Boe)

• Season: Mid-Jun to end Sept

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Traffic: High

• Official start location: Brixen / Bressanone, although some choose to start at the top of Plose Cable Car

• Official end location: Feltre, although some choose to end in Croce d’Aune

1. Mountain Huts (Rifugio)

The most common type of accommodation along the Alta Via 2 is the traditional rifugio or mountain huts. These are strategically located at various points along the trail and provide hikers with basic lodging, meals, and communal spaces. The huts range from simple dormitories to more private rooms, and many offer hearty Italian meals, including breakfast and dinner. Staying in rifugi allows hikers to experience local hospitality and enjoy breathtaking views from high-altitude locations.

2. bivacco Shelters

For those seeking a more rugged experience, there are bivouac shelters scattered along the trail. These are basic, unmanned shelters that provide emergency shelter and minimal facilities. They are often used by hikers who prefer more self-sufficient trekking or need a place to stay in unexpected situations.

3. Hotels and Guesthouses

Although the Alta Via 2 doesn’t pass through any towns, the trail crosses many road “passes” such as Passo Gardena and Passo San Pellegrino, that have hotels and guesthouses, as well as transport to access nearby towns such as Canazei and San Martino di Castrozza.

These accommodations offer more comfort, private rooms, and additional amenities such as showers, Wi-Fi, and sometimes laundry facilities. They are great options for hikers looking to rest and recuperate for a day or two during their trek.

4. campgrounds

Wild camping is prohibited in most parts of the Dolomites, as the trail runs through national and regional parks with strict conservation rules. 

There are a few campgrounds in the valleys or near larger towns and villages along the route. These sites offer facilities such as toilets, showers, and often a small store or restaurant.

Some mountain huts (rifugios) allow hikers to pitch their tents nearby and use the toilet, and purchase food and drinks. However, it is important to contact huts to confirm whether it is possible, and follow their clear instructions.

The “classic” Alta Via 2 Dolomites route is 167 km / 104 mi, with 11,400 m / 37,500 ft in elevation gain. Hikers are required to climb over 19 mountain passes, the highest point being L’Antersas near Rifugio Boe at 2,907 m / 9,537 ft.

There are many alternate routes that change the distance and elevation, either to add summit route (such as Piz Boe or Gran Cir), or skip a difficult main trail section (such as Passo Rolle or Val Canali), or to incorporate via ferrata routes (such as Ferrata Pisciadu or Ferrata Marmolada). 

It typically takes between 10 and 14 days to complete the Alta Via 2 Dolomites. It depends on which route you decide to take, your hiking speed, the desired number of hiking hours per day and whether you will use transport.

The best time to hike the Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites is during the summer months, from July to mid-September. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and minimal snow on trails, making it ideal for hiking and crossing higher-altitude sections.

Most rifugios and mountain accommodations are open and fully operational during this time, offering meals, lodging, and supplies. July and August are peak months and can be busy, particularly around popular sections. If you prefer fewer crowds, mid to late June and September are excellent choices.

Read our detailed blog “When is the best time to hike the AV2”

The Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites is considered one of the more challenging long-distance hikes in the region. Its difficulty level is influenced by a combination of factors, including terrain, elevation gain, length, and technical sections. Here's what makes the trail challenging:

1. Length and Duration

The trail spans approximately 167 km (104 mi) and typically takes 10 to 14 days to complete. This multi-day trek requires endurance and stamina, as hikers cover substantial distances each day, often in rugged terrain.

2. Elevation Gain

The total elevation gain across the route is significant, with steep ascents and descents that can be physically demanding. Total elevation gain is 11,400m / 37,500ft testing both strength and fitness.

3. Technical Sections

The Alta Via 2 features some technical and exposed paths, including narrow ledges, steep scree slopes, and areas with fixed cables for support. While these sections add to the adventure, they also require sure-footedness, a head for heights, and basic scrambling skills. It is possible to hike the entire Alta Via 2 trail and avoid via ferrata routes.

4. Weather Conditions

The Dolomites are known for their unpredictable mountain weather, which can change rapidly, especially at higher altitudes. Sudden rain, fog, or thunderstorms can make sections of the trail slippery and more dangerous, adding to the overall difficulty.

5. Accommodation and Supplies

Hikers typically stay in mountain huts (rifugios), which are spaced out along the trail. Planning and reserving accommodations in advance is essential during the peak season. While the huts provide meals and basic amenities, hikers need to carry enough supplies, including water and emergency gear, for the longer or more remote sections.

6. Physical Fitness and Experience

The Alta Via 2 is best suited for hikers with prior mountain trekking experience and a good level of physical fitness. It is not recommended for beginners due to the sustained effort required over consecutive days and the technical nature of some parts of the trail.

HOW POPULAR IS THE ALTA VIA 2 DOLOMITES?

The Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites is popular among seasoned hikers and adventure enthusiasts, but it is generally considered less crowded than its counterpart, the Alta Via 1. This distinction is due to the Alta Via 2's reputation for being more technically and physically challenging, appealing to those looking for a more demanding and less-traveled experience.

During the summer months (mid-June to mid-September), the trail sees a significant number of hikers, particularly in areas easily accessible by car, bus and gondola. The busiest times are in July and August, especially on weekends.

The Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites starts near the town of Bressanone (Brixen) and ends in the town of Feltre.

• Starting Point – Brixen / Bressanon: Hikers can start in Bressanone (Brixen), charming town in the South Tyrol known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and the backdrop of the Dolomite mountains.

  • Option B: Plose Cable Car: Many hikers choose to take the bus and Plose cable car (free with Brixen guest card) to begin their hike. This reduces 1,500m / 4,900ft from Day 1 ascent.

• Ending Point – Feltre, a town located in the Veneto region features a picturesque historic center.

  • Option B: Croce d’Aunes: Many hikers choose to finish their hike at Croce d’Aunes and catch a bus to Feltre, avoiding the final 12km / 7.5mi on roads/paths.

For those that wish to shorten their Alta Via 2 hike there are many locations to start/end your hike, that are accessible with public transport, including: Passo Gardena, Val Gardena, Passo Pordoi, Malga Ciapela, Passo San Pellegrino, and Passo Cereda.

All these locations are available in our planning app to select as your “start” or “end” point, with associated transport details.

1. Traditional Route

The classic north-to-south direction follows the natural progression of the trail and is the way it was originally designed to be hiked. This route allows you to gradually move from the northern Dolomites' higher, more rugged landscapes to the more rolling and forested southern areas, providing a sense of completion as the terrain changes.

2. Scenic Progression

Starting in Brixen/Plose offers a dramatic introduction to the Dolomites, and as you hike south, the trail showcases some of the most striking peaks and valleys in the region. The views evolve from iconic jagged peaks to softer, greener landscapes, creating a varied visual experience.

3. Climbing and Descending Patterns

Hiking north to south often allows for more manageable ascents, with challenging climbs distributed throughout the hike. This can help build endurance gradually, making it easier to tackle the longer and steeper days as you progress.

Alternative: South to North

While less common, hiking from south to north is an option for those looking for a different perspective or logistical reasons. This reverse direction might offer a sense of working up to the more dramatic northern peaks, but it can mean steeper and more sudden elevation gains early in the trek.

ARE THERE TRANSPORT SHORTCUTS ON THE ALTA VIA 2 DOLOMITES?

There are transport shortcuts available on the Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites, which can be helpful for those who wish to skip certain sections or save time and energy. Here are some common transport options along the trail:

1. Cable Cars and Gondolas

Several sections of the Alta Via 2 are accessible by cable cars or gondolas, which can help bypass challenging ascents or descents. Popular lift systems include: Plose Cable Car, Passo Pordoi and Col Margherita cable car. 

2. Buses

Local bus services operate between towns and villages in the Dolomites, making it possible to:

• Skip lower-elevation sections or return to a starting point.

• Travel between Bressanone and Feltre or access trailheads if starting mid-trail.

3. Taxis and Private Transfers

For more flexibility, taxis or private shuttles are available for hire, especially in larger towns like Bressanone, Corvara, and Feltre. While more expensive, these services can be arranged to pick you up at specific points along the trail for custom transportation needs.

Our planning app and GPS map include all transport schedules and costs for the upcoming season.