Updated for 2026 season
For those that are interested in doing some Via Ferrata routes along the Alta Via 1 trail in the Dolomites, you are in luck! There are many options - from beginner to advanced routes - to choose from.
You can find the popular “via ferrata” route details in our planning app, such as description, images, time estimates.
The Hiking Club planning app displays different route types - including hiking and via ferrata - so you can choose a route that is best for you.
popular via ferrata routes along the Alta Via 1 Dolomites
Ra Gusela Via Ferrata
Location: Between Rifugio Nuvolau and Passo Giau
Difficulty: Beginner
Duration: 1 hour
This beginner route offers breathtaking panoramas of the Tofane, Marmolada, Civetta, and Pelmo mountains. It can be completed in either direction, with most AV1 hikers completing it by descending from Rifugio Nuvolau to Passo Giau. This does not add significant time to your hike and therefore is a great option to include in your itinerary.
Recommended for experienced hikers or beginner via ferrata experience. Helmets, harnesses, and via ferrata lanyards are recommended for safety. Learn more here.
Ra Gusela Via Ferrata is located to the East of Rifugio Nuvolau. Screenshot from The Hiking Club planning app.
2. Averau Via Ferrata
Location: Trailhead next to Rifugio Averau
Difficulty: Medium
Duration: 2-3 hours
This popular medium difficulty via ferrata is known for its impressive views and relatively straightforward route, making it ideal for those with limited experience.
The route ascends the Averau peak (2,649m / 8,690 ft), a prominent summit in the Nuvolau mountain range. It offers fantastic views of the Tofane range, Monte Cristallo, and Marmolada.
This via ferrata is a great option for AV1 hikers would are staying at Rifugio Averau / Nuvolau and have an afternoon or morning available to complete this relatively short, accessible route. Helmets, harnesses, and via ferrata lanyards are required. Learn more.
Averau Ferrata is located to the West of Rifugio Averau. Screenshot from The Hiking Club planning app.
3. Ra Pegna Via Ferrata
Location: Trailhead next to Rifugio Duca A’osta
Difficulty: Beginner
Duration: 1 hour
The Ra Pegna Via Ferrata is a relatively easy and scenic route located in the Ampezzo Valley of the Dolomites, ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed via ferrata experience. Starting from the Ra Pegna area, the route is well-protected with steel cables and ladders, and it includes some easy scrambling and exposure, but nothing too technical or strenuous.
AV1 hikers will need to divert off the main trail at Rifugio Dibona to reach Rifugio Duca A’osta and the trailhead. Helmets, harnesses, and via ferrata lanyards are required. Learn more.
Option to combine with Ra Bujela Via Ferrata which is next to the Ra Pegna trailhead.
Ra Pegna Ferrata is located to the near Rifugio D’Aosta. Screenshot from The Hiking Club planning app.
4. Via Ferrata Piero Rossi (EX MARMOL)
Location: North of Rifugio 7th Alpini in the Schiara Group
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2-3 hours
Bocco-Zago bivouac is located along the Piero Rossi ferrata route near to Rifugio 7th Alpini.
Often referred to as "Stage XI" of the AV1, this is a remote and technical route with steep, exposed sections requiring via ferrata gear. It explores the Schiara Group of the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, with dramatic scenery of Monte Schiara - the group's highest summit - and wide panoramas toward the Civetta and Marmolada groups (on clear days!).
The route traverses exposed ledges, cables and ladders at Forcella del Mamol and passes by the Bocco-Zago bivouac on Marmol. Helmets, harnesses, and via ferrata lanyards are required. Keep an eye out for chamois and salamanders.
Things to consider: Early season snow often holds on the Northern approach. Contact Rifugio 7th Alpini to confirm current conditions. Contact Mountain Shop Ponte nelle Alpi for gear rental.
Piero Rossi (ex Marmol) Ferrata is located to the North of Rifugio 7th Alpini. Screenshot from The Hiking Club planning app.
Find a list of other via ferrata routes below:
Want to hire via ferrata gear for one or more of these routes?
Snow Service Cortina offers the option to pick up and drop off the via ferrata kit at Rifugio Averau and Rifugio Palmieri at Croda da Lago.
Here are the instructions to book the service:
For reservations, please use our online booking service at the following link: https://www.snowservice.it/en/summer/booking/.
Cancellations are allowed with a full refund until 09:00 AM on the day before your booking.
We have an agreement with Rifugio Averau. To receive a 10% discount on your rental, please use the promo code: averau.
Select the delivery and pickup service by choosing Averau from the list of available locations.
By 4 PM on the day before your rental, your ordered equipment will be at the Rifugio.
If you wish to drop off at Rifugio Palmieri, please include this information in the notes of your reservation.
The delivery and pickup service costs €10 per person, which includes subscription to insurance. The insurance costs 10% of the rental cost and covers 100% in case of damage and 75% in case of theft.