57 Dolomites Hut to Hut Hiking Tips

This is the largest collection of Dolomites Hut to Hut Hiking Tips on the planet with insider tips, scenic stops and advice based on my family trips there the past 5 years. 

The best part?

All of my hut-to-hut hiking advice, tips, and tricks will help you save time, save money or make your experience even more wondrous and safe. 

So, if you want your hike to be as seamless as possible, use these Hut to Hut hiking tips to help in planning your Dolomites active vacation.

Note: these Dolomites Hut to Hut Hiking  tips provided are based on my own opinion and/or personal experience. If you have a differing viewpoint or experience, I’d love to hear it. Read my detailed guide on exactly what is a hut to hut hiking trip.

Going on a hut-to-hut hike through the majestic Alps and the Dolomites is an adventure that’s both thrilling and accessible due to the high number of gondolas and open trails that interconnect the region. 

With a network of trails that have been shaped over centuries, even those with average hiking experience can traverse these mountains. 

All you’ll need is a modestly sized backpack — a 25-liter daypack will suffice — packed with a change of clothes and basic necessities to journey through these storied paths with ease.

Key Highlights Dolomites Hut to Hut Hiking

• Alta Via itineraries: These are popular routes in the Dolomites, such as Alta Via 1 and 2, known for stunning vistas.  The 3 and 4 require significant Via Ferrata experience.
• Choose to go guided vs self-guided.
• Booking: Reserve in advance, especially during the summer peak season.
• Packing list and gear: Tailor your items to the route’s demands, including a robust first aid kit and blister kit.
• Travel insurance and budget: Allocate funds for unexpected events, and consider travel insurance for peace of mind for your wallet and rescue insurance for your health and medevac.
• Rental car availability: Not a necessity, given the comprehensive public transport systems.

Your Ultimate Guide

Inside this guide, you’ll find information that will help you to make a decision about whether a Dolomites trip is right for you.

Or, if you’re already booked, you’ll find strategies, secrets, and information that will help you make the most of your dream vacation.

Let’s climb this mountain together. 

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1. What makes the Dolomites so special?

Let me guess.

The fact that you landed on my Dolomites hut to hut hiking page is no accident. Perhaps you’ve heard about the Dolomites from friends. Or you’ve seen the hype online.

But perhaps you’ve wondered:

“Is a Dolomites trek really worth the time & money?”

For Nature-lovers, the Dolomites hiking hut to hut vacations are magical.

2. Here’s the Real Scoop:

When I am asked what makes a hut to hut hiking trip in the  Dolomites so special, my answer boils to the following ingredients:

• Sense of accomplishment
• Dreamy destinations
• Unparalleled landscapes
• All mixed together with tasty food, good wine and comfy beds

It’s a captivating alpine odyssey, a trekking adventure extravaganza, and a mountain paradise-seekers ultimate destination, all in one unforgettable hut-to-hut hiking experience in the Dolomites.

3. A Mountain Hut = Rifugio = Hütte (Same thing)

There are multiple ways to describe the accommodations at high altitude in the Dolomites.  They are often used interchangeably. Read what it’s like staying in a mountain hut.

4. Dolomites Description

The four words I use to describe a Dolomites hut to hut hiking trip are:

• Awe-Inspiring
• Tasty
• Wonder-filled Nature
• Family-friendly

Remember, every hut and trail offers a distinctive encounter, and your journey should reflect your preferences and comfort level.

How Hard are the Trails

5. Trail Difficulty

There are a wide range of trails in the Dolomites, but the most popular Alta Via 1 Trail is a beginner friendly hut to hut route.  There are not any particularly dangerous or exposed areas.  At some points there are cables for you to feel extra secure, but they are not really necessary.  

Most people should be able to hike this if they have a moderate level of fitness.

6. Can Kids Hike it?

Yes!  My daughter started hut to hut hiking in the Dolomites when she was 11. Any younger than that I would ensure you have appropriately adapted to time on feet with a pack.  This advice is good for adults too 😉

7. How Long to Hike Each Day

This depends on your itinerary, but most people find 4-7 hours daily to be manageable and allow enough time to really smell the Rosengarten 😉  Sometimes my kids wished we had longer days because they don’t love sitting on the deck drinking white wine after a hike.

Your duration of hiking depends on your tastes and the location of huts you can reserve. 

8. Trail Conditions

The trails are rocky and steep in parts, and soft and green in others.  There is a constantly changing landscape throughout each corner of the Dolomites and that is what makes them so special. 

9. What’s the Weather like?

It’s typically cool in the summer with daytime highs in upper 60s, with thunderstorms in the late afternoon.  It’s advisable to get a really good weather app and keep track of lightning as that is your main problem. 

10. Can you hike hut-to-hut in the Dolomites in Spring?

Nope. The trails are not accessible and the huts are closed. 

11. When Can I Go Hut to Hut Hiking in the Dolomites?

The trails are not safe outside the summer months for non-mountaineers.  If you want to plan a safe and enjoyable trip where the huts are actually open, you’ll want to go between mid-June and mid-October. 

Huts will close early or not open on time if the weather is really bad. 

It’s a short summer season – But you can ski hut to hut in winter ;-).

12. Do I need a permit?

Nope.  You need a hut reservation though as wild camping is not permitted.

13. Are the Animals Dangerous?

Not really.  There are many adorable cute cows, marmot and chamois. Bears, mountain lions and wolves are not really present. 

Nobody really brings bear spray or weapons to this area.

I did get attacked by sheep once though, they wanted to eat my hair.  

Hut to Hut Trails in Dolomites

14. Alta Via Routes: 10 High Routes

The Alta Via 1, starting from Lago di Braies and ending near Belluno, is the most accessible of these routes. 

The other Alta Via trails are more challenging, often necessitating via ferrata kits, technical hiking expertise, and confidence in navigating secured passages and exposure.

You can do all of these trails or shorter sections of each utilizing gondolas, taxis, buses or pre-staging a car. 

Alta Via	Starting Point	Ending Point	Distance and Duration
Alta Via 1	Lago di Braies/Pragser Wildsee	La Pissa, Belluno	120 km, 8-10 stages
Alta Via 2	Bressanone/Brixen	Passo Croce d’Aune, Feltre	180 km, 13 stages
Alta Via 3	Dobbiaco/Toblach	Longarone	100 km, 8 stages
Alta Via 4	San Candido/Innichen	Pieve di Cadore	85 km, 5-7 stages
Alta Via 5	Sesto/Sexten	Pieve di Cadore	90 km, 7 stages
Alta Via 6	Sappada	Vittorio Veneto	180 km, 11 stages
Alta Via 7	Dolomieu al Dolada Refuge	Tambre	36 km, 5 stages
Alta Via 8	Feltre	Bassano del Grappa	63 km, 4 stages
Alta Via 9	Tires	Santo Stefano di Cadore	180 km, 12-14 stages
Alta Via 10	Bolzano/Bozen	Lake Garda	200 km, 18 days

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15. Other Routes

You can mix and match, but there’s a plethora of routes.  Here’s some of the highlights:

• Alta Badia High Route
• Rosengarten Traverse
• Best of the Dolomites Traverse

What Happens in the Mountain Huts (Rifugios)

16. Gourmet Food Served at High Elevation

When trekking in the mountains, you should consider staying in a rifugio. Mountain shelters in the Italian Dolomites provide a unique experience with sometimes more gourmet meals. They are often more conveniently located but can be busier due to the breathtaking scenery.

17. When to Book? (EARLY)

Booking ahead isn’t always mandatory, but it is recommended, particularly during the peak season. 

Accommodation varies from bustling, accessible lodges to more isolated locations offering peace and solitude. 

For instance, while some huts may teem with visitors, others, like the Lagazuoi hut, might have few guests even during peak times like late June.

For the popular Alta Via 1 you should book in Sep or October of the year prior. 

19. What do I do with My Backpack?

You can place your backpack near your assigned bed, but not ON your bed. The doors usually don’t lock, so if you’re worried keep your passport on you but we’ve never had a problem. I like to change into my clothes and head up to the sunny decks for a glass of wine after a long day’s hike.

20. How to Book a Rifgugio?

This is the difficulty.  Mountain rifugios in the Dolomites are a bit of a mess for bookings and it ranges all over the place.  This is why I’m using a self-guided planner to take away the hassle. 

You can certainly book your own huts, but it’s increasingly difficult on the popular Alta Via 1 trail, but much easier on the other routes.

To book a hut you’ll typically need to plan a route and contact each hut in sequence to book a reservation with a deposit. Then pay in full at the time of service.

21. Do Huts take a Deposit?

Typically yes.  It ranges from a set fee, to a percentage of your total stay and depends on the rifguio. Some accept credit card but many huts want a bank transfer. If you do not show you will lose your deposit. 

22. Do I Need a Sleeping Bag?

No need to bring a sleeping bag, but you’ll need to bring a sleeping sac. Huts require these to minimize laundry needs as they typically provide only the basics: a warm blanket, a pillow, and a mattress.

23. What About Shoes in the Hut?

Upon arrival, you don’t need to worry about hut slippers; they are provided. At one location, a refundable deposit of 5 euros was needed for the more refined clogs, but typically, a variety is available for use at no charge.

24. Can I bring my dog?

This is a tough one.  Probably not. Most huts don’t let dogs inside and who would bring their dog on a hut to hut hiking trip to make them sleep outside the hut?

25. Should I Bring Backpacker Meals? – NOOOOOO!!!

Food is a highlight of the Dolomites mountain experience.

For meals, the Half Board — which includes both breakfast and dinner — offers the best value. This often comes as a set menu but is nonetheless satisfying, with additional desserts and beverages available for purchase. 

Some establishments also offer a “Mountaineering Half Board,” a budget-friendly option serving substantial, yet perhaps less elaborate, meals.

26. Is it enough food? Or Small Euro sizes?

This is a big question in my house.  I can confidently say that I’m usually not losing any weight despite hiking up and down a million feet.  The food is so good and tasty and plentiful. 

There’s usually a 3 course dinner with some options but not an entire menu to choose from.  The vegetarian options are okay, not great.

The Tyrolean cuisine is super delicious though and includes pork frequently, so if you don’t want that you’ll have to go veggie option. 

Bread and pasta are also huge here so celiacs should let the hut know ahead of time to make arrangements. 

27. Do Rifugios Have Booze?

Yes, absolutely.  Many often feature local wines such as Lagrein and have a variety of beers, wine, cocktails and homemade booze.  Indulging in the local schnapps is a must. Many refuges create their own special flavors, which are perfect for a celebratory drink among fellow hikers.

28. Do I need Euro Cash?

Regarding payments, be prepared to handle transactions in cash, particularly in smaller or more remote huts. Larger establishments, especially on the Italian side such as Rifugio Lagazuoi, may accept cards, but it’s safer not to rely on this. 

Research the costs in advance and carry enough cash to cover all expenses, keeping in mind that extras like beer and desserts are not included. 

Membership in an Alpine Club can often lead to discounted rates, so look for the term “mitglieder” to identify those opportunities.

29. What are the Beds like?

This depends quite a lot on the style of accommodation you book.  It ranges from semi-luxurious private rooms to farty, smelly bunk bed filled dormitories. 

And everything in between.  In my experience it is much nicer than the huts on the Tour du Mont Blanc, but when you’ve got a shared dorm with a neighbor that sounds like a lawnmower it can be tough.

Most beds are quite soft though and they provide linens, pillows, blankets.  

30. Alpine Club

Membership to the Alpenverein, particularly the British chapter for English speakers, is a smart move for any hiker aiming to explore the Alpine region. By becoming part of this community, not only will you gain discounts across numerous huts in different countries, but you will also enjoy privileges like lodging priority during busy times. 

More crucially, the club membership provides insurance for mountain rescue operations, which in case of an emergency, could include helicopter services, ensuring your safety and peace of mind without the burden of potential high costs.

31. Laundry

Most huts have facilities to dry wet clothes and boots, with some even offering heated pegs. While outside clothes lines are commonly available, remember to bring any garments inside at night to avoid morning dew. 

Bring a low sudsing detergent to do your laundry in the sink or a dry bag and do it first thing when you arrive to have more time to dry your clothing.

32. Quiet Hours

Each hut will have slightly different times, but due to many hikers wanting to beat afternoon storms, the hut typically will have quiet hours from 10 pm to 6 am. 

33. Showers

This depends on the hut as well with a wide variety of situations. Most offer showers that cost 2-5 euros for a set period of time of hot water.  Some have totally free water and some have none. 

34. Do I need to Bring a Towel?

Yes, it’s a good idea to bring a quick dry towel to wash your face and dry off after a shower. There are also some lakes you can take a swim. 

35. Do they have wifi?

Yes, they typically do have wifi, but not all.  Sometimes it doesn’t work really well however.  I’d be sure to download any maps onto your phone prior to the trek and not depend on wifi. 

37. Most Important Tip to Sleep Well in Rifugio

Bring earplugs.  Period. 

38. Worst thing that happened to me in a Rifugio

Someone stole my hiking pants!  I had washed them and hung them outside to dry on the deck.  In the morning there was a windstorm and I thought they were blown away.  Boy was I in trouble. 

Then another hiker saw I was freaked out and double checked her bag and she had taken mine by accident.  Thankfully I had my hiking pants to finish the trek. 

Linguistic Landscape

39. Can I get by in English?

In the Dolomites, you can navigate comfortably with English; a basic grasp of local terms is beneficial. Hut proprietors are English-speakers, and public transport offers German, Italian and English information. Tyrol’s other hikers might not be as proficient in English, but expect a warm reception.

40. What are the Local Languages?

Venturing into Italy’s South Tyrol, you encounter a bilingual setting where German matches the prevalence of Italian due to historical ties with Austria. The region draws a diverse crowd, including numerous youthful mountaineers.

The local dialect is Ladin and over 30,000 people speak this language.

41. What about Trail Signs?

Most signs are in German and Italian.  Some even have English or Ladin but it’s very easy to find your way with a navigational app.

Navigational Aids and Route Planning

42. Do I need a Printed Map?

Not really.  When embarking on a self-guided trek such as the Alta Via 1 Trail, knowing your route in advance is crucial. Although carrying a printed map isn’t always necessary, as they are readily available at local visitor centers or accommodations along the way.

43. Are the Trail Signs Good?

Trail Signage: The signs for certain trails are … lackluster.  It’s advisable to use an app like Komoot or maps.me. 

44. What are the Signs?

Visual Guidance: Throughout the Dolomites, trails are often visibly worn and marked by painted rocks, even on loose or rocky terrain.  They sometimes are located on a pole on a metal sign. 

45. Via Ferrata Signs

For travelers undertaking the challenge of a via ferrata or other hiking trails, it is beneficial to:

• Obtain specialized maps, like the ones by Tabacco for the Italian Dolomites, which offer detailed topography.
  
• Maintain a moderate pace to align with signposted times, although experienced hikers may traverse quicker.

Essential Research Aids for Trekking in the Dolomites

In preparing for your journey through the Dolomites, a range extending across South Tyrol, Cortina, Bolzano, and Belluno, having the right tools for research is invaluable. The region, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, includes majestic sites such as the Lago di Braies, Drei Zinnen, and the Sella Group.

46. Blogs like this one to share experience

Discover Huts and Shelters: Bloggers are out there every year exploring paths and finding hidden gems. You can check out my facebook group where people are sharing their experiences.

47. Regional Tourism Pages

Regional Insights: For visual insights and detailed descriptions of different trekking routes and mountain huts, visit the regional tourism pages. They provide a wealth of images and data on areas such as the Rosengarten, Sexten, and the mountain plateaus of Trentino.

48. Trail Mapping Tool

Trail Mapping Tool: Access a virtual trail guide that shows routes from point A to B, providing estimated hiking times, similar to a hiking-oriented Google Maps.  I actually used google maps quite a bit, along with Komoot. 

Essentials for Multi-Day Treks in the Dolomites

50. Packing Essentials for Your Hut Adventure

When setting off for a hut-to-hut hiking trip in the Dolomites, it’s crucial to pack light but comprehensively. Expect to carry:

• Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
• Warm layers for cooler temperatures
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Sturdy hiking boots or hiking shoes
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Personal medications and a basic first aid kit
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Trail map and compass or GPS
• Reusable water bottle and filtration system
• High-energy snacks
• Ibuprofen for older knees

51. Hiking Shoes vs Boots?

This is up to you and what you’re adapted to.  However, I can say after 3 summers hiking the Alta Via 1 that I prefer hiking shoes over boots for this trail.  It’s nice to have less heavy feet on all the up and down terrain. 

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Budgeting Your Dolomites Excursion

52. What You should Expect to Pay at Huts

Excluding your transportation to the area, expect to pay $60-$125 per person, per night for half-board accommodation.  If you want to take any gondolas, you’ll have to pay for each one separately and prices vary.

53. What the Heck is Half-Board?

This is a way of saying that your bed, breakfast and 3 course dinner are covered in the cost of “half-board”.  Drinks are not covered under this cost.  Sometimes you may get free water, but not often and you must request “tap” but it’s not available everywhere. 

Yes, I think Europeans are dehydrated a lot. 

54. How Much are Drinks?

The past few years have seen significant inflation so by the time you read this it may be outdated unfortunately.  Drinks are usually more pricey at high elevation due to the transportation costs incurred to carry the weight, but it’s not “expensive”.

Averages:

• Soft drinks: 2.50-4 euros
• Sparkling water: 3-4 euros
• Tap Beer: 4-6 euros
• 1 liter House wine: 12-16 euros
• Cappuccino: 4 euros

55. Then How Much is Lunch?

You’ll have to do one of four things for lunch:

• Skip it and save room for the yummy dinner (free)
• Bring food in your pack from a supermarket (depends)
• Stop at a rifugio along the route for lunch (10-20 euros)
• Bring a sack lunch from your previous rifugio (11-13 euros)

56. Where to Stay the Night Before Trip

Most people will stay in tourist-friendly Cortina d’Ampezzo or Dobbiaco the night before if starting the world famous Alta Via 1. 

However, if you want a quieter experience, you can explore many, many different treks and stay in Val Gardena, Bolzano or other valley locations prior to a hut to hut hike.

There’s almost endless possibilities to create hut to hut routes and valley towns to stay in the night before.

57. A budget-friendly trek in the Dolomites includes:

You can reduce the costs somewhat, especially if travelling with kids or a bigger group.  We love taking the buses around the area because they reduce the need to have a rental car if flying in from Venice. 

• Booking hotels and huts in advance to secure better rates
• Carrying your own food supplies to reduce purchases
• Hiking during the shoulder season for lower fees
• Utilizing public transport to and from trailheads

58. Insurance

Preparing for the Dolomites’ Challenges

59. Physical Training

To get ready for this unique terrain:

• Prioritize cardiovascular and strength training
• Familiarize yourself with altitude adjustment practices
• Hike on steep and rocky terrain
• Consider squats, lunges and step ups

60. Gear Training

It’s such a good idea to practice with your intended gear. Don’t show up in new boots, this can be a disaster or go well, but why risk it?

• Practice hiking with your fully packed backpack
• Break in your hiking boots well in advance

61. My Free Course on Hut to Hut 

My course on mountain hut hiking offers a unique experience to immerse yourself in high-altitude living. With the right preparation, your stay at a rifugio can enhance your connection with the natural landscape while providing basic comforts and a sense of camaraderie with fellow mountaineers.

Best Dolomites Destinations

62. Scenic Itinerary Ideas

Some breathtaking itinerary suggestions include:

• The OG: Alta Via 1
• The Alta Via 4, for its remarkable cliffside paths
• Val di Funes to marvel at the jagged peaks of the Odle Group
• Lagazuoi Tunnels, combining history with vistas
• Rosengarten Traverse, with it’s pinnacles and spires

Plan your stops to appreciate sunrise or sunset views from the huts.

63. Recommended Short Hut Hikes

If your time is limited, consider these short yet rewarding hikes:

• The Tre Cime Loop, offering 2-3 days of stunning scenery
• The hike from Alta Badia to the Puez Hut
• Exploring the area around Val Gardena

Each provides a different aspect of the Dolomites’ beauty.

64. Best Short Routes for 1 week Vacation

For an immersive 5-day experience, consider popular routes like:

• Alta Via 1, celebrated for its panoramic views
• Alta Via 2 for a more challenging terrain
• The Sellaronda Circuit, encompassing various trails
• Morgan’s new route for a guided tour! Email me if interested.

Map out your journey with the specific huts you intend to stay in and always have a contingency plan.

Easy Ways to Book a Hut to Hut Hiking Trip in the Dolomites

65. Ways to Book a Hut to Hut Dolomites Trip

66. Where do I Fly Into?

Most people will likely be flying into Venice Airport. It’s a 2.5 hour drive by bus, car or private transfer. You can also fly into Innsbruck airport in Austria.

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We hope this guide filled with interesting information about Dolomites Hut to Hut Hiking Tips has given you the proper information to plan your next adventure.

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