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 de Luca Innerkofler
Step into history on the Via Ferrata de Luca Innerkofler. This beginner-friendly “B” grade route takes you through 400 meters of dark WWI tunnels before emerging onto the steep faces of Monte Paterno. If you’re looking for the absolute best view of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo towers while walking through a living museum, this is the adventure for you.
Via Ferrata Cesare Piazzetta: Hardest Route in the Dolomites
Forget the tourist trails. Via Ferrata Cesare Piazzetta is a brutal, high-exposure mission designed for those who want to earn their summit the hard way. From the legendary 90-degree vertical wall that pumps your arms in the first 50 meters to the narrow, dark “chimney” and the minimalist suspension bridge, this is a masterclass in Dolomite climbing. We’re breaking down the logistics, the technical gear requirements, and the reality of tackling one of the Sella Group’s most respected and physically demanding routes.
Via Ferrata Ivano Dibona: The Most Iconic Route of the Dolomites
Via Ferrata Ivano Dibona is an iconic 13km traverse in the Cristallo mountain group, famously featuring the suspension bridge from the film Cliffhanger. Reaching the 3,008m summit of Cristallino d’Ampezzo, this 8-hour journey follows historic World War I trails, blending dramatic high-altitude ridges with the haunting ruins of military history and the breathtaking silhouettes of the Dolomites.
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.