Discover LAKE SORAPIS: The Bluest Lake in Dolomites

guideNataliaItaly- 20. June 2024 -If you're planning a visit to Lake Sorapis, you've come to the right place. After living in the Dolomites for a year and a half, we finally decided to visit this stunning destination. Despite the warnings about crowds, I couldn't be happier that we made this trip and can share a complete guide for you now.
Starting the Hike to Lake Sorapis: PASSO TRE CROCI
The trail to Lake Sorapis begins at Passo Tre Croci in the Dolomites. There's a large, free parking lot at the pass, but it can fill up quickly, so I'd recommend starting your hike early. The trailhead is about 300 meters from the parking area and is well-marked on maps. The path is easy to follow, with red signs, and some beautiful views along the way already.
From Easy Stroll to Tricky Terrain
The initial part of the hike is quite easy, following a wide forest path. It's shaded and offers beautiful scenery, including horses and cows grazing along the way. This section lasts for about 30 minutes. However, after about half an hour, the trail becomes more challenging. It narrows to a rocky path that can be slippery, with some segments requiring single-file navigation. During our summer visit in mid-September, the weather was perfect, but we can’t imagine tackling this trail in the rain. The rocks become like ice when wet, and there's a steep drop-off along the side of the trail. Despite these challenges, the trail is equipped with rail ropes for safety. If you're cautious, it's manageable. For those afraid of heights, just focus on your steps and avoid looking down. Starting early at 8 AM helped us avoid the worst of the crowds, and we moved at a steady pace. However, encountering hikers coming down can slow progress, especially in the narrow sections.
Reaching the Mountain Hut and Lake Sorapis
As we climbed, the views became more spectacular. We could spot the Drei Zinnen (Tre Cime di Lavaredo) in the distance, adding to the hike's visual rewards. Near the end of the trail, you’ll reach a fork where you can choose to head right to the lake or left to the mountain hut. We opted to refuel at the hut before heading to the lake. The hut offers drinks and snacks from 12 PM, and there's a lovely terrace with valley views. It's a short walk from the hut to the lake, making it a convenient stop. We enjoyed a refreshing beer with lemonade at the hut, a perfect break before the final stretch to the lake.
The Majestic LAKE SORAPIS
Arriving at Lake Sorapis is like stepping into a different world. The lake's turquoise color is breathtaking and unlike anything I’ve seen before. You can hike around the lake, taking in various perspectives and enjoying the serene environment. Please remember, the lake is a protected nature area. Swimming and entering the water are prohibited, and it's crucial to respect the environment by leaving no trash behind.
After exploring the lake, we made our way back to the parking lot. In total, we hiked over 14 kilometers, including the strolls around the lake. It was an incredible experience, and we hope you find this mini travel guide helpful. Even in mid-September, the area was busy, but I can only imagine how crowded it gets in peak season. For a quieter experience, consider visiting at sunrise. Until next adventures!