Croda del Becco (Seekofel)
Conquer Croda del Becco for epic Dolomite views, starting from the iconic Lago di Braies. A challenging hike rewarding with stunning panoramas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Croda del Becco (Seekofel)
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer Croda del Becco for epic Dolomite views, starting from the iconic Lago di Braies. A challenging hike rewarding with stunning panoramas.
"Incredible hike with views the entire way up from the lake."
Check Trail Conditions
Snow can linger into May! Bring appropriate gear like snowshoes or poles if hiking early season. :hiking_boot:
Start Your Hike Early
Beat the crowds and enjoy the best light on Lago di Braies. Early mornings are key for a peaceful experience. :sunrise:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Croda del Becco Summit
Peak at 2,810m
Conquer the summit for breathtaking 360° panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomites and Lago di Braies below.
Lago di Braies Vista
From the summit or along the trail
Witness the iconic turquoise waters of Lago di Braies from a stunning elevated perspective.
Rifugio Biella
Mountain hut along the route
A welcome stop for rest and refreshments, offering a cozy respite amidst the rugged mountain landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Gear Up for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Trail Conditions
Snow can linger into May! Bring appropriate gear like snowshoes or poles if hiking early season. :hiking_boot:
Start Your Hike Early
Beat the crowds and enjoy the best light on Lago di Braies. Early mornings are key for a peaceful experience. :sunrise:
Pack for All Weather
Dolomites weather is unpredictable. Be ready for sun, fog, and even snow, regardless of the season. :cloud:
Hydration is Key
Limited water sources on the trail, so carry plenty of water. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Trail Conditions
Snow can linger into May! Bring appropriate gear like snowshoes or poles if hiking early season. :hiking_boot:
Start Your Hike Early
Beat the crowds and enjoy the best light on Lago di Braies. Early mornings are key for a peaceful experience. :sunrise:
Pack for All Weather
Dolomites weather is unpredictable. Be ready for sun, fog, and even snow, regardless of the season. :cloud:
Hydration is Key
Limited water sources on the trail, so carry plenty of water. :droplet:
Dog-Friendly (with caution)
The hike is moderate for dogs, but ensure they are well-prepared for the terrain and weather. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Lago di Braies and the rewarding panoramic views from Croda del Becco. The hike is challenging but offers incredible scenery. Some visitors note the potential for snow well into spring and the need for proper gear, while others highlight the crowds at the lake itself.
"As of May 8, the trail is still covered with a lot of snow. You will need appropriate gear to climb up.
For us, the weather wasn’t on our side, it was foggy and snowing so the trails from the refuge to the summit were not clear and we had to figure it out as we go. Given the high risk, we turned around and took shelter in the winter shelter next to the refuge (make sure you leave the place clean for others)"
Bouchra REKHADDA
"Stunning but if you’re going now, bring snow shoes, hiking poles and a head torch"
Emily Claxton
"Amazing hike, moderate level for dogs. Not much shade during the day and little water sourses, so better start earlier in the morning."
Gabriela Řimnáčová
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting point is Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee). You can drive to the lake, but parking is limited and often requires booking in advance, especially during peak season. Alternatively, public transport options are available, though they may require transfers.
Yes, it's a popular one-day mountain climbing challenge. The hike typically takes several hours, so an early start is recommended to complete it comfortably and enjoy the views.
Driving is an option, but parking reservations are highly recommended. Public buses also serve the lake, offering a more relaxed approach.
Information on shuttle services can vary by season. It's best to check local tourism websites or inquire at your accommodation for the most up-to-date transport options.
Yes, the trailhead at Lago di Braies is accessible to day visitors. However, planning your transport and parking well in advance is crucial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific tickets required for the hike itself. However, access to Lago di Braies and its parking facilities may require reservations and fees, especially during peak season.
The hiking trails are generally accessible year-round, but conditions can vary significantly due to weather and snow. Always check local conditions before setting out.
While the lake itself is a natural attraction, there are often fees associated with parking and sometimes even access during busy periods. Booking parking in advance is strongly advised.
Visiting early in the morning, especially outside of peak summer months, can help you avoid the largest crowds. September is mentioned as a potentially busy month.
During peak seasons, access to Lago di Braies might be regulated to manage visitor numbers. It's wise to check official park or tourism websites for any current restrictions.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderate to challenging, involving significant elevation gain and potentially rugged terrain. It's suitable for experienced hikers. 
The hike can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours round trip, depending on your pace, fitness level, and the specific route taken.
Sturdy hiking boots are essential. Depending on the season, you may need snowshoes, hiking poles, a head torch, and layers of clothing.
Rifugio Biella is a mountain hut located along some routes, offering a place to rest and refuel.
The hike is described as moderate for dogs, but they should be well-prepared for the terrain and weather conditions.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for capturing the stunning turquoise colors of the lake and the dramatic mountain scenery.
The summit offers incredible panoramic shots. The iconic view of Lago di Braies from above is a must-capture, as are the reflections in the lake itself.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural parks and around popular tourist attractions to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the mountains. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:
The summit provides unparalleled views of the entire region, making it the ultimate spot for breathtaking landscape photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting a rowboat on the lake for a fun family activity, or simply enjoy a picnic with the magnificent mountain backdrop. For families with older, experienced hikers, the lower sections of the trails leading towards Rifugio Biella might be manageable, but the summit push is best left for those with proven hiking stamina.
⛰️ Experienced Hikers & Climbers
+1For those seeking more advanced adventures, exploring alternative routes or combining the hike with other trails in the region, such as those leading to Rifugio Sennes, can offer multi-day trekking opportunities. The summit provides a fantastic vantage point for appreciating the vastness of the Dolomites.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For a truly unique perspective, undertaking the hike to the summit of Croda del Becco provides breathtaking panoramic views that are perfect for wide-angle shots. Remember to pack a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and consider a range of lenses to capture both the grand vistas and intricate details of the mountain scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Croda del Becco
+1Hikers should be prepared for a significant elevation gain, often exceeding 1400 meters, and can expect the round trip to take between 4 to 8 hours. The trail conditions can vary greatly depending on the season; snow can persist well into late spring, requiring specialized gear like snowshoes and poles.
Key considerations for this hike include checking weather forecasts meticulously, carrying ample water and snacks, and wearing sturdy, broken-in hiking boots. The effort is rewarded with unparalleled panoramic views from the 2,810-meter summit, offering a unique perspective of the Dolomites.
+1Lago di Braies: The Jewel of the Dolomites
While the lake itself is beautiful to behold from its shores, many visitors are drawn to the challenge of hiking up to Croda del Becco for an elevated view. The lake is also famous for its rowboats, which can be rented for a fee, offering a classic way to experience its serene beauty up close.
Tips for visiting Lago di Braies include arriving very early in the morning to avoid the peak crowds and to capture the best light for photography. Parking at the lake is limited and often requires advance booking, so planning ahead is essential.
Seasonal Considerations and Weather
Autumn (September to October) can be magical, with vibrant foliage and crisp air, but temperatures begin to drop, and early snowfalls are possible. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, making high-altitude hikes like Croda del Becco inaccessible without specialized winter mountaineering gear.
Spring (April to May) is a transitional period. While the lower areas may be clear, snow can persist at higher elevations well into May, making it crucial to check trail conditions and be equipped for wintery conditions, including potential ice and deep snow.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit