The hike to Lago di Sorapis, what to expect
Not only Lago di Sorapis is insane, the whole hike to the lake is already spectacular. There are two routes that take you to the lake, route 215 and 217. Route 215 is ‘easier’, but even this route we found quite intense. Route 217 is even more challenging and we really don’t recommend it if you are an inexperienced hiker. In this blog you will only read our experience about route 215.
Route 215 is an adventurous 12.5 kilometer hike and takes 4-5 hours to complete. The hike incline is around 300-400 meters. So prepare yourself for steep parts. Along the way you will be treated to breathtaking panoramic viewpoints and you will be surrounded by many mountain peaks. In the distance you can spot the impressive peaks of the Tre Cime / Drei Zinnen.
For inexperienced hikers it is a tough hike and climb. When it gets extremely steep, steps have been made to make it easier to climb. The hike is a challenge if you are afraid of heights. On the route you come along narrow paths with deep abysses, for safety you can hold on to steel cables on these parts.
The enchanting Lago di Sorapis
Lago di Sorapis is the spectacular end of the hike and has a WOW effect. After a 2-2.5 hour hike, this view is worth all the climbing. Lago di Sorapis is surrounded by the Gruppo del Sorapis mountain range, which provides dramatic backdrops of rugged peaks. The blue water is like a mirror in which the reflections of the mountains are clearly visible. Lago di Sorapis is the perfect place to relax and have a nice picnic.
Do you have any energy left? Then we recommend taking a walk around the lake. This way you can watch the lake from different angles. From the other side you have completely different views.
After enjoying this dreamy place to the fullest, you can walk the same way back to the starting point.
The origin of the light blue color
The light blue color of Lago di Sorapis creates a very special sight. This unique color of the water is caused by fine grit from the mountains that ends up in the lake via meltwater from the nearby glacier. If you visit the lake on a sunny day, the blue color will be even more intense. To keep the beautiful blue color and the ecosystem, it is forbidden to swim in the lake.
The best time to visit Lago di Sorapis
The hike to Lago di Sorapis is one of the most popular hikes in the Dolomites. It is therefore best to do the hike in the low season. Or make sure you start early (before 8:00 AM) to avoid the crowds. As it is a narrow trail, it can get overcrowded quickly and you won’t be able to walk at your own pace. We visited the Dolomites in June and started the hike at 6.00 am. Besides being very quiet, we could also enjoy a magical sunrise!
The trail head
The starting point of the hike is located here. You only have to walk through a wooden gate and from here follow the signs with the route ‘215’. Along the way, the route is often indicated by ribbons and white-red stripes on trees or stones.
How to get to the trail head
Are you traveling by car? Then navigate to this location. There are not many parking spaces. If the parking lot is full, you can park your car next to the road.
It is also possible to travel by public transport. From June to early September, a number of buses (line 30) run from Cortina d’Ampezzo per day. In 20 minutes you travel to the starting point of the hike.
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