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Lago di Coldai Hike

At the foot of the spectacular north face of Monte Civetta (3,220 m), Lago di Coldai is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites, nestled in a rocky cirque at an altitude of over 2,100 m.

The hike described here starts at Col dei Baldi, which is accessible via two cable cars from Alleghe and provides quick access to the lake. This area is very popular in the summer, especially since the trail intersects with the famous Alta Via 1, which traverses the Dolomites from Dobbiaco to Belluno.

Remarks

Access: From Alleghe, take the Pian di Pezzè cable car, followed by the Col dei Baldi cable car (two sections). Check the Alleghe Funivie website for schedules and rates. The operating season generally runs from mid-June to mid-September.

An approach without lifts is possible from the upper part of Alleghe (1,100 m) via trail 564, but it adds over 600 m of elevation gain. The best option is to start from Rifugio Palafavera (1,514 m), in the neighboring Val di Zoldo. Follow trails 564 and then 556. See the Monte Coldai hike description for full details.

Refuge: Rifugio Sonino al Coldai is located about ten minutes from the lake. It is open from mid-June to late September and offers food and lodging. Reservations are required, as the hut is on the Alta Via 1 trail.

Description and difficulties of the hike

The route begins at the upper station of Col dei Baldi and is accessible via two successive cable cars departing from Alleghe: Pian di Pezzè and Col dei Baldi. The first section is a wide track that gently descends toward Casera di Pioda (1,816 m), passing through high-altitude meadows and clearings.

At Casera di Pioda, leave the track and take trail no. 556 toward the refuge. The trail markers become more frequent and reliable. The trail steepens and crosses a few scree slopes. It then climbs in switchbacks through rockier terrain to Rifugio Sonino al Coldai (2,135 m).

A short climb from the refuge leads to Forcella Coldai, where Lake Coldai suddenly comes into view, nestled beneath the walls of Civetta. A brief descent will lead you to its shores.

The return follows the same route.

What you'll love

The lake's exceptional setting, dominated by Civetta's 1,000-meter vertical wall.
The view of Monte Pelmo, which becomes visible throughout the climb to the refuge.
The Rifugio Sonino al Coldai, an ideal rest stop before reaching the lake.