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Col de Locia and Rifugio Scotoni Hike

This loop hike in the heart of the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park in the Dolomites is one of the most scenic in the Alta Badia region. Highlights include a high-altitude plateau surrounded by towering cliffs, a spectacular mountain pass crossing, a lake nestled in a rocky cirque, and a steep-walled valley leading to the Rifugio Scotoni. Although the trail is busy during the high season, the variety and beauty of the route more than make up for it.

Remarks

Parking: Large paid parking lot at Capanna Alpina for €10 per day in 2025.

Food and drink: Rifugio Scotoni offers renowned wood-fired grill cuisine. Reservations are recommended for lunch during the high season. Capanna Alpina, located at the trailhead, also serves as a restaurant. The trailhead and the end of the trail are also ideal spots for a picnic, with tables set up in a beautiful setting.

Description and difficulties of the hike

From the Capanna Alpina parking lot (1,730 m), head northeast on trail 11 toward Col de Locia (2,069 m). The route then crosses a wide plateau before the ascent continues on trail 20B through increasingly rocky terrain up to the narrow pass of Forcella di Lago (2,486 m), which is the highest point of the route.

The descent on the other side toward Lech de Lagació (Lake Lagazuoi) is the most challenging section of the loop. The trail plunges into a narrow combe between vertiginous rock faces and winds through numerous tight switchbacks fitted with wooden steps. The slope is very steep, but the installed equipment effectively secures progress.

At the foot of the descent, Lech de Lagació comes into view, dominated by the sheer face of Cima Scotoni. The trail then follows a gorge to the Rifugio Scotoni (1,985 m). Trail No. 20 then leads easily back to the trailhead via a wide forest road.

What you'll love

The Forcella di Lago, a spectacular pass that suddenly opens up to a view of the steep-sided valley and Lake Lagazuoi.
The Lake Lagazuoi, an emerald-green gem nestled beneath the walls of Piz dl Lech and Cima Scotoni.
The Rifugio Scotoni, renowned for its grilled cuisine and exceptional setting facing the Lagazuoi massif.