To Lago Sorapis

Description

The hike to Lago Sorapis is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Dolomites. The lake is in fact well known for its intense colour, with shades ranging from blue to aqua green. This colouration derives from the very fine rock dust carried by the glacier of the same name, which, as it melts during spring and summer, gives life to the lake. Starting at Passo Tre Croci, follow path 215. This is a varied and scenic path with several ups and downs but a slight overall height difference through a beautiful forest with views of Cristallo, Popena, the Cadini di Misurina and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. After an initial flat section, there follows a more challenging section with some metal ladders and exposed sections along a flat ledge, equipped with wire ropes. After these short equipped sections, you will soon arrive at Rifugio Vandelli, a cosy and authentic mountain hut in a breathtaking position in the centre of the grandiose amphitheatre on the northern slope of the Sorapis, almost on the edge of the plinth where the waterfall emerges and falls. From the mountain hut, originally built in 1890, you can admire, to the north, the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Misurina and its lake and, not far away, the magnificent alpine lake set like a gem in the mountain, overlooked by the Dito di Dio (2,603 m). The lake is carved into the rock and has no surface outlets. In fact, its waters reach the large rocky threshold of the glacial shelf underground, exiting in the "el Piss" waterfall. It is precisely from this name that the mountain group "Sora el Piss" (above the el Piss waterfall), derives its name. During the winter season, the many waterfalls freeze over, allowing ice climbing enthusiasts to practice. For the return it is advisable to follow the same route as on the outward journey, along path 215.