The Italian Dolomites are home to some of the most spectacular via ferratas in the Alps. From the dramatic towers of Tre Cime and the high mountain routes of the Sella Group to the spectacular peaks around Cortina d’Ampezzo, there is an incredible variety of routes to explore.
Some via ferratas are short and suitable for beginners, while others involve exposed climbing, steep ladders and demanding descents. This guide helps you explore Italian Dolomites via ferratas by region, compare different types of routes and find detailed guides for planning your next climb.
Explore the Italian Dolomites by Region
Browse all published via ferrata guides from the Italian Dolomites. Each guide includes route-specific information to help you understand the difficulty, duration, approach, descent and other planning details. Grading systems and estimates can vary, so read the full guide before choosing a route.
Tofana Dolomites
Explore steep rock faces, high mountain routes and spectacular via ferratas above Cortina d’Ampezzo.
All via ferrata route guides in the Italian Dolomites
Browse the published guides below. Route details and grading systems can vary, so check the full guide for the information specific to each climb.
Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos in the Italian Dolomites
Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos offers the ultimate Dolomites experience. Discover the perfect blend of vertical climbing, World War I history, and breathtaking 360-degree views, complete with a route extension to the world’s highest sauna at Rifugio Lagazuoi.
Via Ferrata Vallon: Guide to the Majestic Piz Boè
Tired of the tourist crowds on Piz Boè? The Via Ferrata Vallon is your secret side door to the summit. From a heart pounding suspension bridge over a waterfall to a lunar plateau where you can find 200 million year old sea fossils – this route is the ultimate way to earn your 3,152m view. If you want an “off the beaten track” adventure in the Sella Group, this is the itinerary for you.
Via Ferrata Strada degli Alpini: Easy Route and Best Views
Via Ferrata Strada degli Alpini is one of the most scenic and beginner-friendly routes in the Dolomites. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Monte Popera Circuit: A 4-Day Hut-to-Hut Via Ferrata Adventure
The Monte Popera Circuit isn’t for the faint of heart. Spanning 4 days and 6 different via ferratas, this route takes you through some of the most exposed and rewarding terrain in the Sesto Dolomites. From the overhanging rocks of Aldo Roghel to the stunning ledges of Strada degli Alpini, discover why this is the ultimate trek for via ferrata lovers.
Torre di Toblin: The Astonishing 360° Views of the Tre Cime
Rising between the iconic Tre Cime and Monte Paterno – the isolated towers of Torre di Toblin look impossible to climb. Until you find the Ladder Ferrata. Used as a strategic lookout during WWI, Via Ferrata delle Scalette is a thrilling, moderately difficult climb featuring 17 ladders and the most spectacular 360° panorama in the Sesto Dolomites. Here is everything you need to know to plan your ascent.
How to choose via ferrata in the Dolomites
The right via ferrata depends on more than the difficulty grade. Before choosing a route, think about your previous experience, how comfortable you are with exposure, ladders and steep terrain, and how much time you have available.
Check the route’s difficulty rating and make sure you understand the grading system used in the guide. Also consider the total time, elevation gain, descent, approach and whether lifts or public transport are available. A route that looks short on a map may still require a long approach or a demanding descent.
Mountain conditions can change quickly, so check the weather, snow, storms, closures and current local information before setting out. Choose a route that matches your experience, fitness and comfort level rather than simply selecting the most famous one.
New to via ferratas?
Before choosing a route, learn about the equipment, grading systems and basic considerations involved in via ferrata. My beginner’s guide will help you understand what to expect.