Passo Tre Croci
Alpine pass in the Dolomites, gateway to stunning hikes like Lago di Sorapis, offering breathtaking mountain vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Passo Tre Croci
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Alpine pass in the Dolomites, gateway to stunning hikes like Lago di Sorapis, offering breathtaking mountain vistas.
"The lake has trails surrounding it but doing a round is not feasible for everyone. Its view is astounding and the contrast of colour will be something you won't easily forget."
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive by 6-6:30 AM to snag a parking spot, or expect a walk from roadside parking.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The hike to Lago di Sorapis is challenging; good footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lago di Sorapis Hike
Trailhead from Passo Tre Croci
A challenging but incredibly rewarding hike to a stunning emerald lake with surreal beauty.

Scenic Drive
Passo Tre Croci road
Enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas and beautiful roads perfect for a memorable car ride.

Memorial Crosses
Passo Tre Croci summit
Reflect at the historic memorial crosses, remnants of an 18th-century tragedy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Parking & Trails
Hike Difficulty & Suitability
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive by 6-6:30 AM to snag a parking spot, or expect a walk from roadside parking.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The hike to Lago di Sorapis is challenging; good footwear is essential.
Dolomites Itinerary Help
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited dining options; bring your own provisions for the hike.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is astounding; don't forget your camera for unforgettable shots.
cortina d'ampezzo
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive by 6-6:30 AM to snag a parking spot, or expect a walk from roadside parking.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The hike to Lago di Sorapis is challenging; good footwear is essential.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited dining options; bring your own provisions for the hike.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is astounding; don't forget your camera for unforgettable shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomites and the stunning, surreal views from Passo Tre Croci, especially the vibrant Lago di Sorapis. The challenging hike is considered well worth the effort for the incredible reward. However, parking can be a significant issue if you don't arrive very early, and dining options at the pass are generally disappointing.
"The Dolomites are breathtaking, there's no denying! Getting to the area was quite straightforward but time-consuming given roadworks and as a consequence, intense traffic over the last 50 some Kms. There are a number of parking areas, each one with trails leading to the main trails, my destination being Sorapis Lake. The trail is level for the first km or two but quickly becomes more challenging as it wears on. If you're looking for a good hike in the very sense of the word, this is for you. I would suggest early morning as the trail thins out and there's only space for one person at a time. The lake has trails surrounding it but doing a round is not feasible for everyone. Its view is astounding and the contrast of colour will be something you won't easily forget. It's the type of place that makes you come back to make sure you're not dreaming."
Raquel Morales Trias
"Beautiful pass to drive through and stop for the view. Nowhere worth stopping to eat. The hotel restaurants are not very good. Parking can be tricky if you don’t arrive early."
Lily L.
"An amazing place for hikes and beautiful roads for a car ride while enjoying the surreal beauty around."
samer nohra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Venice, you can drive towards Cortina d'Ampezzo and then follow signs for Passo Tre Croci. The drive offers beautiful mountain scenery. Be aware of potential roadworks and traffic, especially closer to the pass.
While direct bus routes might be limited, you can often take a bus to Cortina d'Ampezzo and then look for local connections or taxis to Passo Tre Croci. Check local transport schedules in advance.
The road is scenic and well-maintained, offering beautiful views of the Dolomites. However, it can be winding and narrow in parts, so drive cautiously.
You can typically reach Cortina d'Ampezzo by bus from various Dolomite towns, and then find onward transport to Passo Tre Croci. Planning your route with local bus companies is recommended.
In summer, roads are generally clear. However, in winter and early spring, snow and ice can make driving challenging, and winter tires or chains might be necessary. Always check local weather and road conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Passo Tre Croci itself is a scenic pass and does not require an entrance ticket. However, parking fees may apply in designated areas.
The hiking trails, such as the one to Lago di Sorapis, are generally free to access. There are no specific trail entry fees.
Passo Tre Croci is an outdoor mountain pass and is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, access might be restricted during severe weather conditions in winter.
To avoid crowds, especially for popular hikes like Lago di Sorapis, aim for very early mornings (6-6:30 AM) or late afternoons. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
No specific permits are generally required for day hikes from Passo Tre Croci. However, always check for any local regulations or temporary restrictions, especially during peak season.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary draw is its role as a starting point for stunning hikes, most notably to Lago di Sorapis, and its own scenic beauty as an alpine pass.
The most famous hike is to Lago di Sorapis, which is challenging. Other trails may offer varying difficulty levels and scenic viewpoints.
The hike to Lago di Sorapis is considered strenuous and not suitable for very young children. Shorter, easier walks might be available, but research specific family-friendly trails beforehand.
Parking is available but can be limited. Arriving very early is crucial to secure a spot, otherwise, you may need to park along the road.
Facilities are minimal. There are hotels with restaurants, but they are not highly recommended for dining. It's best to come prepared with your own supplies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Reviews suggest that dining options at the hotels near Passo Tre Croci are not very good. It's advisable to eat in Cortina d'Ampezzo before or after your visit.
There are no dedicated food stalls or cafes on the trails. Hikers should pack their own snacks and water for the duration of their trek.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find scenic spots along the roads or at the start of trails to enjoy a packed lunch.
Cortina d'Ampezzo offers a range of dining options, from traditional Tyrolean cuisine to more international fare, catering to various tastes and budgets.
It's unlikely to find convenience stores or markets directly at Passo Tre Croci. It's best to stock up on any food and drinks in Cortina d'Ampezzo before heading up.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of the Dolomites from the pass itself are stunning. The hike to Lago di Sorapis offers incredible shots of the vibrant lake and surrounding peaks.
Early morning light offers soft, beautiful illumination and fewer people. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide dramatic lighting for the mountain landscapes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or distant peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The viewpoint overlooking Lago di Sorapis is iconic. The pass itself offers numerous pull-offs for capturing the grandeur of the surrounding peaks.
The unique turquoise color of Lago di Sorapis is best captured on a sunny day. The contrast with the rocky surroundings makes for striking photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you're traveling with kids, consider shorter, less strenuous walks in the broader Cortina d'Ampezzo area. Research local trails specifically marked as family-friendly. While Passo Tre Croci is a stunning location, the primary activities here lean towards more demanding hikes.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond Lago di Sorapis, the area offers other trails for exploring the majestic Dolomites. The scenic drive to the pass itself is also a treat, with numerous viewpoints to stop and admire the landscape. Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear and carry sufficient water and snacks.
🚗 Road Trippers
Be mindful of parking, especially during peak season, and consider arriving early if you plan to do any short walks or simply enjoy the views. While dining options are limited, the drive itself and the panoramic scenery make it a worthwhile detour.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Hike to Lago di Sorapis
The reward for your effort is immense: a breathtakingly beautiful lake with an almost surreal turquoise hue, nestled amidst dramatic Dolomite peaks. The contrast of the vibrant water against the rugged grey rock is a sight that stays with you long after you leave. Many recommend starting early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of this natural wonder.
While the main trail to the lake is the most popular, there are often smaller paths around the lake itself, though completing a full circuit might not be feasible for everyone. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are scarce along the route.
Navigating Passo Tre Croci: Parking and Access
Failing to arrive early might mean parking further down the road and walking up to the trailhead, adding extra time and distance to your excursion. The road leading to the pass is scenic but can be winding, so drive with care. While the pass itself is accessible year-round, winter conditions can make driving difficult, and snow tires or chains may be necessary.
There are hotels and restaurants at the pass, but reviews suggest they are not particularly noteworthy for dining. It's best to plan your meals in Cortina d'Ampezzo before or after your visit to Passo Tre Croci.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit