Dürrenstein Hike

From the Plätzwiese/Prato Piazza parking lot (1,993 m), the trail heads southeast, briefly following the main track. Just past the Berghotel/Rifugio Prato Piazza, a junction on the left marks the start of Trail No. 40 toward the summit—pay attention, as the signpost is easy to miss.

Beyond that point, the route is straightforward: a single, well-marked trail with regular switchbacks climbs steadily along the mountain's southwest flank. Throughout the ascent, the silhouette of Croda Rossa looms large behind you and accompanies the hiker all the way to the summit. The terrain is rocky with no tricky sections but is entirely exposed to the sun; there is no shade anywhere along the route. In summer, it is advisable to set out early to avoid the heat and late-afternoon thunderstorms.

At around 2,700 meters, the trail reaches the ridgeline. The route then crosses very stony terrain to a false summit. This peak is separated from the summit cross by a small gap. This final section is equipped with a handline and allows you to cross a narrow, slightly exposed ridge. The cable secures the passage, but hikers sensitive to exposure may prefer to turn back here. The view is already very open, though the final viewpoint offers an even more complete panorama. The descent follows the same route.