Padon Ridge and Viel del Pan Loop Hike

From Passo Pordoi (2,239 m), follow trail 601, which starts near the small chapel just above the road. The ascent begins on a wide trail skirting the Sas Becé. Pass the Rifugio Sass Becé, then the Rifugio Fredarola (2,370 m), where the Marmolada view suddenly opens up.

The loop begins to the left of the refuge. Look for the signpost for Trail 636, also known as the Sentiero delle Creste del Padon, which climbs steeply toward Col de Cuc (2,563 m), the highest point of the hike. This is the most demanding section, with a sustained slope and grassy terrain, though there are no technical difficulties. The ridge narrows in places, though there are no truly exposed or airy sections. The panorama is exceptional, with views of the Sella massif and Sassolungo to the west, the Marmolada and Lago di Fedaia to the south, and the Tofane and Civetta in the distance.

The trail then follows the ridgeline over terrain that mixes steep meadows and dark rocks, a geological feature of the Padon range. Unlike the neighboring massifs, the Padon range is not formed of dolomite, but of black volcanic rock. The descent reaches Trail 601 (Viel del Pan) in a few minutes at Rifugio Viel dal Pan (2,432 m), an ideal spot for a break before heading back. From there, Trail 601 leads gently back to Passo Pordoi via a wide, nearly flat contour mule track facing the Marmolada. Allow about one hour for this final rolling section, which passes by Rifugio Fredarola again.