Alta via 4 the Epic Path
Are you ready to take on one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Dolomites? The Alta Via 4 is an unforgettable journey for experienced adventurers, offering stunning views, technical climbs, and the chance to conquer iconic peaks like Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Croda dei Baranci. Over eight intense days, you will push your limits, traverse via ferrata routes, and experience the raw beauty of the mountains. This is more than a trek—it’s an adventure of a lifetime. Join us and make the Dolomites your playground!
Day 1: Arrival and Group Reception
Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Description of the day: Arrival in Cortina d’Ampezzo, where BOA Base Outdoor Activities welcomes the group. This day is for preparation, equipment checks, and briefing about the Alta Via 4. BOA’s expert guides will explain the upcoming days’ itinerary and technical aspects.
- Activities:
- Group reception by BOA guides
- Equipment check
- Acclimatization walk in the area.
Overnight stay: Hotel or mountain refuge in Cortina d’Ampezzo
BOA Base Outdoor Activities specializes in adventure trip tours, ensuring the group is well-prepared for the demanding journey.
Day 2: Tre Cime di Lavaredo – Rifugio Lavaredo
Location: Tre Cime di Lavaredo
- Description of the day: The adventure kicks off with a spectacular hike towards the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo, one of the most recognizable symbols of the Dolomites. The route offers breathtaking views, with BOA guides leading the group through technical ascents and descents. This day requires endurance, but the panoramic views of the towering peaks make it unforgettable.
- Activities:
- Guided trek to the base of Tre Cime
- Arrival at Rifugio Lavaredo.
Overnight stay: Rifugio Lavaredo
This day balances adventure with stunning scenery, a perfect start to the demanding Alta Via 4.
Day 3: Rifugio Lavaredo – Rifugio Auronzo
Location: Tre Cime di Lavaredo
- Description of the day: Starting from Rifugio Lavaredo, the group will embark on a circular route around Tre Cime, one of the most spectacular sections of the Alta Via 4. The terrain here is rocky and technical, providing thrilling challenges for adventure enthusiasts. The day ends with a descent to Rifugio Auronzo, with BOA’s guidance ensuring safety during the more exposed parts of the route.
- Activities:
- Circular trek around Tre Cime
- Arrival at Rifugio Auronzo.
Overnight stay: Rifugio Auronzo
This day is a perfect blend of physical challenge and awe-inspiring scenery.
Day 4: Rifugio Auronzo – Croda dei Baranci – Rifugio Tre Scarperi
Location: Croda dei Baranci
- Description of the day: Leaving Rifugio Auronzo, the group heads towards Croda dei Baranci, a striking peak offering a more technical and exposed section of the route. The terrain includes challenging climbs and sections equipped with via ferrata, ideal for those seeking an adrenaline rush. The day concludes with the descent to Rifugio Tre Scarperi, where participants can rest after an intense day of hiking.
- Activities:
- Via ferrata segments
- Arrival at Rifugio Tre Scarperi.
Overnight stay: Rifugio Tre Scarperi
This stage pushes both endurance and technical skills to the limit, offering an unforgettable experience.
Day 5: Rifugio Tre Scarperi – Rifugio Vandelli
Location: Vandelli
- Description of the day: From Rifugio Tre Scarperi, the group will head towards Rifugio Vandelli, traversing challenging rocky paths with panoramic views. This section of the Alta Via 4 is known for its breathtaking vistas and the technical terrain that includes a mix of steep ascents and descents, demanding focus and stamina. The stunning Lago di Sorapis will be a highlight on this leg of the journey.
- Activities:
- Scenic hike with technical sections
- Arrival at Rifugio Vandelli.
Overnight stay: Rifugio Vandelli
This day showcases the raw beauty and ruggedness of the Dolomites
Day 6: Rifugio Vandelli – Rifugio San Marco
Location: San Marco
- Description of the day: The group sets out from Rifugio Vandelli, continuing through some of the most rugged and dramatic landscapes of the Dolomites. This part of the trail includes technical via ferrata sections, demanding careful navigation and focus. The terrain here is more remote, offering a real sense of adventure. The day concludes with the arrival at Rifugio San Marco, nestled high in the mountains.
- Activities:
- Via ferrata segments
- Arrival at Rifugio San Marco.
Overnight stay: Rifugio San Marco
A thrilling day packed with technical climbs and breathtaking views.
Day 7: Rifugio San Marco – Rifugio Galassi
Location: Galassi
- Description of the day: From Rifugio San Marco, the trail leads to Rifugio Galassi, passing through striking rocky terrain and high mountain passes. The group will face technical challenges, with steep ascents and descents, and may need to use climbing equipment on certain sections. The landscape becomes more remote and wild, emphasizing the grandeur of the Dolomites.
- Activities:
- Technical hiking
- Arrival at Rifugio Galassi.
Overnight stay: Rifugio Galassi
This day presents both physical and mental challenges, preparing the group for the final descent.
Day 8: Rifugio Galassi – Belluno (Descent)
Location: Belluno
- Description of the day: On the final day, the group will make the descent from Rifugio Galassi towards Belluno. This section is less technical but still offers magnificent views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The hike down provides a moment to reflect on the journey through the Dolomites, with a celebratory gathering awaiting at the end of the trail.
- Activities:
- Scenic descent to Belluno
- Farewell gathering and debrief.
Overnight stay: Return or optional stay in Belluno
A well-deserved celebration concludes the exhilarating adventure!