Hiking to Cadini di Misurina: Step-by-Step Guide, Map and Tips

a woman in a light down jacket and hiking gear stands in front of jagged mountain peaks at the cadini di misurina viewpoint in the Dolomites
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The sight of these jagged peaks is one of the very best in the Italian Dolomites and the hike to Cadini di Misurina is well worth the effort. Here’s everything you need to know to get there safely and tips to take stunning photos when you’re there!


I reckon that the Cadini di Misurina are the OG Dolomites influencers – single-handedly responsible for thousands of Google searches for “spikey mountain range in the Dolomites with people standing on an outcrop”.

Who wouldn’t want to trade their manic Monday meetings for the serene, breathtaking views of Cadini di Misurina?!

Ever scrolled your Instagram feed wondering how folks have managed to capture such jaw-dropping, ridiculously beautiful shots of Cadini di Misurina in the Dolomites? Well, as someone who’s been there, done that and got the likes, let me tell you – it’s not just smoke, mirrors, and a ton of filters for a change!

The real stars of the show are the Cadini di Misurina mountains. Like well-aged wine, these pale grey stone giants mature impressively, piercing the sky and really showing off their best side at sunrise and sunset.

And the best part? No specialist gear, no gruelling uphill hike for hours to reach the viewpoint, just one of the best views in the Dolomites with only moderate effort.

I can hear you heaving a sigh of relief from here.

The Cadini di Misurina hike is the perfect side trip to combine with a visit to Tre Cime di Lavaredo. For photographers, the light at dawn and dusk is dreamy, but even if you can’t make it at golden hour, the view is still worth a gazillion likes.

About My Experience Hiking Cadini di Misurina

I’ve done this hike solo at sunrise and in the middle of the day with friends, so you’re getting my personal experiences. I’ve crammed this guide with all my insider tips, from how to nail the perfect shot to the practical stuff like essential gear, how to get here, and where to stay.

Spoiler alert: hiking Cadini di Misurina is one of the best things to do in the Dolomites.

So, if you’re ready to turn your Instagram into a visual ode to the breathtaking Dolomites, you’re in the right place. Grab your cameras, ladies – it’s time to get those banging shots at Cadini di Misurina!

Cadini di Misurina viewpoint in the Dolomites | Cats Nine Lives
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CADINI DI MISURINA ESSENTIALS

LOCATION | Sesto / Sexten Dolomites

DISTANCE | 3.75km out and back

ELEVATION | +/-120m

BEST AT | golden hour

TRAILHEAD | Rifugio Auronzo

The features in this post were hand-selected by a picky diva (that’s me) and some of them are affiliate links. If you buy via these, I may earn a commission on some of these awesome recommendations at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your wonderful support – Cat.


A COMPLETE GUIDE TO HIKING TO THE CADINI DI MISURINA VIEWPOINT


Where is the Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint?

High in the Sesto (Sexten) Dolomites, a stone’s throw from the incredibly popular Tre Cime, is a rather intriguingly named marker on Google maps – The Towers of Mordor.

Obviously, Middle Earth hasn’t just appeared in the Italian Alps. Sorry.

What has happened, though, is that over millions of years, these ancient coral reefs have become towering mountains.

The fact that there’s a handily placed natural viewpoint directly opposite them just happens to be the magic of nature.

You’ll find lots of great things to do in the Dolomites nearby. As well as the Tre Cime Nature Park, Lago di Sorapis, Lago di Dobbiaco and Lago di Braies are all within an hour’s drive. It’s a great area to base yourself for a few days since you’ll be able to take advantage of the relatively short hike to the viewpoint to get there for sunrise or sunset as the weather allows.

a woman in a beige jacket and hiking gear stands at the top viewpoint in front of the cadini di misurina range
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That iconic ‘Towers of Mordor’ spot at the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint

Hiking to the Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint

In a striking change to many of the best hikes in the Dolomites, It’s actually pretty easy to get the viewpoint at Cadini di Misurina.

If you’re anxious about heights, the famous viewpoint can be a bit daunting, but there’s an alternative which I’ll tell you more about further down! It doesn’t require a heart-pounding walk along a narrow ledge, so it’s safer for you and better for the trail.

If you want to turn your Cadini di Misurina visit into a full day of hiking or just have a more challenging day out, there are several alternative routes to get here. So let’s talk about your options!

Please practice Leave No Trace principles; plan ahead, stay on trail, pack out what you bring hiking, properly dispose of personal waste, leave areas as you found them, be considerate of other hikers, and don’t approach or feed wild animals.

Hiking to the Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint from Rifugio Auronzo

This is far and away the easiest hike and is the one I’d recommend if you’re also hiking the Tre Cime. You’ll be starting from Rifugio Auronzo, and you’ll need to follow my directions for how to get to Tre Cime to get to the car park.

TRAILHEAD | Rifugio Auronzo
DISTANCE | 3.75 km
TIME | 1-1.5h and allow at least 30mins for photos
ELEVATION | +/-120m
DIFFICULTY | easy

Once you’re at Rifugio Auronzo, you’ll want to ignore everyone heading off towards Forcella Lavaredo. Instead, turn so that your back is to the rifugio. You’ll actually be able to see the peaks you’re aiming for and a well-trodden path straight ahead.

Cross the asphalted area to path 117, which goes all the way to Rifugio Col de Varda via Rifugio Fratelli Fonda Savio and is part of the Alta Via 4. Initially, the path heads fairly steeply downhill, which is great on the way there but a bit of a bummer for the return.

The path forks, although it’s not marked, and it seems as though the left fork has been created by people looking for thrills. Take the right fork here, which is definitely the better option. You’ll then make your way around and uphill to a plateau where it’s easy to see the peaks you’re aiming for.

The dark grey Cadini di Misurina mountain peaks with a deep valley between them, a blue sky above and green bushes in the foreground.
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The Cadini di Misurina from the hiking trail
The jagged grey Cadini di Misurina mountain peaks in the distance with a mountain ridge leading into the scene from the foreground. There's a path on the ridge and you can see people walking along it to the viewpoint.
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The famous Cadini di Misurina viewpoint

The Cadini di Misurina viewpoint is easy to see at a distance, and the path to it is impossible to miss. There’s likely to be somebody standing on it when you arrive unless you’re very lucky or an extremely early riser!

Now that you’re here, it’s time to decide whether you want to head out onto the viewpoint itself. As you can see, it’s not for the faint of heart! As the designated photographer, I was able to just kick back and watch other people confront their fears this time. Which was nice.

There’s sometimes a rope barrier in place to indicate that the viewpoint is closed. Please don’t head out there if it’s present. The other thing to remember is that this path is just dirt and rock, so if there’s been recent rain it’s very slippery. I absolutely would not recommend heading out onto the end in those conditions.

TIP | I think there’s a better viewpoint on top of the cliff to the right of the famous one. Just retrace your steps and take the track heading up to your left once you’ve finished here.

After you’ve taken alllll the photos, simply retrace your steps and return to Rifugio Auronzo. I recommend taking some time to enjoy the beautiful views down to Val Marzon and Misurina. If you’re lucky enough to be there on a clear day you’ll be able to see Lago di Misurina sparkling away in the distance.

A couple sit on top of a cliff with pink and grey coloured rocks typical of the Dolomites
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A couple sitting on the mountainside near Cadini di Misurina
A view down a misty valley with green and gold trees on the mountainsides and a river winding through the middle of the valley
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The view down to Misurina from Cadini di Misurina

The Cadini di Misurina Hike from Lago d’Antorno

As with so many places in the Dolomites, there’s more than one way to skin a cat (isn’t that a weird phrase?). You can actually reach the viewpoint from either the north or the south if you hike from Lago d’Antorno.

The first option below is easier (although by no means easy) and is the one you should do if you want a decent challenge or aren’t intending to do Tre Cime on the same day. It’s also the one do to if you don’t want to pay the steep fee for the Rifugio Auronzo toll road. You’ll end up at around the halfway point of the hike above.

The second option takes you directly to Rifugio Fratelli Fonda Savio, where you’ll then tackle the Senterio Bonacossa. This route will bring you along the Cadini di Misurina peaks from the south, so you’ll approach the viewpoint from the opposite direction. This is a beginner via ferrata, and you should only do it if you’re an experienced hiker with appropriate ferrata equipment.

The easier hiking route | 4km one way | +/-450m | 1.5-2h

There’s ample parking near Albergo Chalet Lago Antorno at the lake. If you arrive before the toll road is open and want to hike up for sunrise, you’ll probably find a spot by the toll road barrier. Later in the day, this area is almost always full.

Some people were parked up here for the night when I arrrived in autumn, but I suspect that the no parking signs are more rigorously enforced in the summer months.

From here, take path 101/119 towards Val del Ciadin de Longeres, where you’ll veer right. After a relatively gentle start (1.2km), you’ll hit a tough 2km uphill climb until you reach the plateau and path 117. Now it’s all downhill to the viewpoint.

Once you’ve recovered enough to consider going up a hill again, you can either head for Tre Cime, return the way you came, or tackle the via Ferrata below in reverse. Be aware that the below route is harder to do in this direction.

The mountain peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the background lit up at the top with golden light from the rising sun. A lake in the foreground is surrounded with green and golden larch trees for autumn in the Dolomites
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Lago Antorno with the golden peaks of Tre Cime behind
High mountain peaks with a distant mountain glowing slightly in the early morning sunlight. in the saddle of the mountain ridge you can see a small white mountain hut. In the foreground are grey mountainsides with scattered green and bright orange larch trees that you get in autumn in the Dolomites.
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Rifugio Fratelli Fonda Savio near Cadini di Misurina

The challenging via Ferrata route | 4.7km one way | +/-500m | 3-4h

Start from the parking area for Rifugio Fratelli Fonda Savio at Pian degli Spiriti. Go up path 115 to the rifugio. There are a few easy cabled sections on the way. This part of the route is around 2.2km, with the most significant 500m ascent and will take 1-1.5h.

Once at the rifugio, head along path 117, the Senterio Bonacossa to the north. This is signposted for Rifugio Auronzo. You’ll encounter several ladders and cabled-in sections, and via ferrata equipment is recommended. After around 2.5km and 2-2.5h of hiking, you’ll reach the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint.

From here, I advise heading back down the route outlined above or alternatively, you could do the Tre Cime hike.

The grey-pink mountain peaks of the Tre Cime spearing up into a clear blue sky. You can see the Tre Cime hiking route running along the base of the mountains and the white Rifugio Auronzo looking tiny at the base too. This is the view hiking back from Cadini di Misurina.
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The view of Tre Cime di Lavaredo from the Cadini di Misurina hike

Hiking to Cadini di Misurina from Misurina

This involves hiking the full length of the Senterio Bonacossa and will take roughly 4 hours to complete.

Start in Misurina at the Col de Varda cable car and take this up to Rifugio Col de Varda. From the rifugio, you’ll head off along path 117 towards Rifugio Fratelli Fonda Savio. This is a difficult 2 hours of hiking along the beginner via ferrata.

Once at the Fonda Savio, it’s another 2 hours, via the route above, to get to the viewpoint.

Sabrina & Kati have a great guide to the Senterio Bonacossa hike (along with loads of other guides to hikes I hope to do one day!) up on their blog.

THE DETAILS

Parking | bottom station Col de Varda cable car

Lift | mid-June to mid-September 9 am to 4:45 pm (from mid-July to early-September 9 am to 5:45 pm), 10 mins, €9.50/€13 return (season dependent)

How to Get to Cadini di Misurina

In order to do the easiest hike, you need to get to Rifugio Auronzo, which is the trailhead. You can do this on foot, as outlined above. Alternatively, you can also get there by car or public transport. You’ll need all the same information as how to get to Tre Cime di Lavaredo!

BY CAR

Follow the SS49 road towards Misurina. Just north of the town, take the toll road towards Rifugio Auronzo.

The road is free until just north of Lago d’Antorno, where you’ll encounter the toll booths and barriers across the road.

THE DETAILS

Cost: €30 for cars and camping vans and €45 for motorhomes. This is until midnight of your arrival day and if you stay overnight you’ll need to pay again on the way down. Parking at Rifugio Auronzo is included in the cost of the road.

TIP | Credit cards are accepted at the toll road to Rifugio Auronzo, but I recommend having cash available as the phone lines can go down unexpectedly.

Opening Hours: Open 24h in the summer season and from 8 am to 6 pm in shoulder season (June and from mid-October to closure). The road is usually completely closed from November to June.

BY BUS

The shuttle bus is a great option during peak hiking season. Public transport is a great choice all around at this time of year. If you have a Sütirol Pass, your bus ticket may be included.

From Cortina | Take bus 30 from Cortina d’Ampezzo to Misurina and then bus 31 to the trailhead at Rifugio Auronzo. The timetable is here. Alternatively, take the 445 to Dobbiaco and then follow the directions below.

From Dobbiaco/Toblach | From late June to October 3rd, shuttle bus 444 goes to Rifugio Auronzo. From July 10th to September 10th, tickets have to be booked and paid for online in advance here. Outside this time, buy tickets at the Dobbiaco bus and train stations. The cost is €18 return.

Cost | The bus to Rifugio Auronzo is €9/adult each way (€18 return)

When is the Best Time to Visit Cadini di Misurina

The Best Time of Year to Hike to Cadini di Misurina

Just like the rest of the Dolomites, the hiking season here runs from late May to early October. The best time to visit the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint is either late June to mid-July or September. The last of the winter snow will be gone, you won’t have to deal with the August crowds, and the cable cars and rifugios will still be operating.

Consider the weather conditions and elevation of the Cadini di Misurina hike before you set out. Both the viewpoint and the via ferrata can be hazardous in wet or icy conditions. The most settled weather is usually in the autumn.

TIP | The rifugi along the Senterio Bonacossa are only open from mid-June to the end of September if you opt to do the via ferrata route.

The Best Time of Day to Visit Cadini di Misurina

The views of Cadini di Misurina are honestly stunning no matter what time of day you visit. If your focus is hiking rather than photography then it really doesn’t matter when you get here. In summer, it can be extremely warm in the middle of the day, so I’d advise doing the hike either earlier or later in the day.

A couple dressed in orange stand holding hands with their dog sitting between them looking up. The light grey mountain peaks of the Cadini di Misurina range are in the distance and they're standing on an outcropping of rock in the foreground.
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I met this lovely couple at Cadini di Misurina and they kindly let me get some cute shots of them and their pup!
The sawtooth grey mountain tops of the Cadini di Misurina range
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The beautiful details of the ridges of the Cadini di Misurina mountains

For the best photos, you should be here at sunrise, sunset and golden hour. If you’re here in the autumn, then sunset is amazing due to the ‘Burning Dolomites’ phenomenon, where the mountains turn red in the light of the setting sun.

In autumn and spring, you’ll need to hike up here from below the Auronzo toll gate for sunrise unless you’re staying at a rifugio or in a campervan at the Auronzo parking area. Be really careful if you’re attempting this hike in the dark, and be sure to have a headtorch in the evening too.

Photography hints and tips for Cadini di Misurina

You could honestly point your camera pretty much anywhere from the main viewpoint and get an amazing shot! If you’re anything like me, you’ll have all your gear with you anyway.

If, however, you’d like to plan a little better, here’s everything you need to know to take awesome photos once you’ve done the hike to Cadini di Misurina.

Best photography spots at Cadini di Misurina

In my opinion, there are three spots to consider.

The first great photo op is as you approach the main viewpoint. When you’re in the curve of the mountain, before the path splits to the upper and lower viewpoints, stop and look left. You’ll get a great angle of the viewpoint in front of the most impressive peaks.

Cadini di Misurina viewpoint in the Dolomites
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The second spot is the upper viewpoint. This is where you can easily get up close to your subject while having the best angle of the peaks in the background. You won’t need to worry if it’s wet, icy or snowy since this is a large flat area with plenty of space to move around. This was actually my favourite location.

The third spot is the main viewpoint. You can get a great angle down into the valley, and a wide-angle lens will get you the full mountain range in view. However, I think this is better as a location to get a subject to stand to add a sense of scale to your images.

Best time to photograph the Cadini di Misurina

Sunrise is great for light hitting the Tre Cime as you look back towards them, and you’ll also get some lovely light in the valley looking down towards Misurina. Once the sun’s a little higher, you might find that that lower viewpoint is fully illuminated whilst the mountain range behind is still in shadow – this was certainly the case in October. The viewpoint shots above were taken within an hour of the sun coming up.

TIP | During the day, there are some amazing views of the Cadini di Misurina range from Forcella Lavaredo, with Rifugio Lavaredo in the foreground. You’ll also get a great view from the part of the Tre Cime hiking loop that’s just north of the parking areas.

the cadini di misurina mountain peaks in the distance with rifugio lavaredo in the foreground
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I suspect that the sun’s angle would give you some light on the valley behind the viewpoint earlier in the season, but it’s likely to be a little later in the morning. The contrasts are extreme here once the sun’s fully up unless you’ve got a little high cloud to diffuse it.

Sunset is lovely, with golden hour giving the best light, but you’ll find that there’s no direct light on the lower viewpoint. If you can, I recommend coming here both for sunrise and sunset if the weather is good. It’s honestly like a different place at each end of the day.

What photography gear to take to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint

I mean, are you really going to leave any behind?

Just kidding. Kinda.

If you’re hiking, it’s wise to pack relatively light. I think that a 70-200mm equivalent is actually the best lens for this spot. It enables you to get the compression you’ll want for the lower viewpoint whilst also enabling you to get everything in frame at the upper viewpoint.

If you’re planning to take a couple of lenses, then something covering the 20-40mm range is a good second choice. I didn’t drone here, but you can definitely get some incredible perspectives.

Since you’re hiking, I recommend putting everything in your backpack of choice (mine’s an F-stop gear) and attaching it to your back with a Peak Design camera clip. Having your camera close at hand makes all the difference.

READ THIS | What’s in My Camera Bag

Map for your hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint

This map has the easy trail marked on it, along with all your options for parking. You’ll also find my accommodation recommendations. To save it to your own maps just click on the star.

Where to stay to hike the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint

If you’d like to be at the viewpoint for sunrise or sunset, then Rifugio Auronzo is my top choice. If you’re not so bothered about when you get there you’ve got many more options.

Rifugi are the best places to stay to explore the area for a few days. They’re also easier on the budget than many other options. If you’re just in the Tre Cime area for the day, eat at any of the huts in the area since the food is great at all of them (except, ironically, Rifugio Auronzo).

Lago d’Antorno and Misurina are the closest towns, with Dobbiaco a slightly further 40-minute drive away. Cortina d’Ampezzo is still close enough for a day trip, but I wouldn’t stay here if you want to make it for sunrise.

BOOKING YOUR TRIP | If you book your trip via my links I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, which helps keep me on the road. Thanks for your support – Cat.

Rifugi near Cadini di Misurina

Rifugio Auronzo | I loved my stay here, but people are very divided about this hut – you definitely can’t beat it for convenience, so it gets crowded as a result. The food can be hit and miss, but the views are undeniably spectacular!
Open | late June – late September for accommodation – check website for dates
Dorm | from €60 half board – email or call for the latest price list
Dining | available until October

Rifugio Lavaredo | An easy 20 minutes walk from the car park at Auronzo, this hut has been welcoming guests since 1954, and there are multiple hiking options from here. You must bring cash to pay.
Open | mid-June to late September
Dorm | €75 half board
Room | €82 half board

Rifugio Fratelli Fonda Savio | One of the most incredible locations and rave reviews for the food! This is a really good option if you’d like to tackle an easier via ferrata. Head up here from Lago d’Antorno in the afternoon, stay overnight and then go to Cadini di Misurina in the morning. You can also do climbing courses here.
Open | mid-June to late September
Dorm | €71 half board

Hotels near Cadini di Misurina

LAGO D’ANTORNO
Albergo Chalet Lago Antorno **
With beautiful views out over the lake, this is a lovely place to stay right near the bottom of the toll road that heads up to the Tre Cime. The shuttle bus stops right by the hotel to head up to the trails so the location couldn’t be better. Breakfast is highly rated! Check rates and book here.

MISURINA
Hotel Sorapiss ***
Right on Lake Misurina, some of the rooms here have absolutely phenomenal views. Incredibly convenient for the road up to the Tre Cime, this is definitely a top choice. Check rates and book here.

DOBBIACO
Hotel Rosengarten ***
The rooms are beautiful here, and the food is fantastic. You can get a free shuttle bus from the train station if you’re arriving without a car. It’s family-run, and you actually do get to feel like part of the family when you stay here. Check rates and book here.

Camping near Cadini di Misurina

DOBBIACO
Camping Toblacher See **
Right on the shores of the lake, this campsite has wonderful modern facilities and is a fantastic option if you’re in a van or camping. The sites are flat and all located a stone’s throw from the lake. The onsite restaurant serves great food and pizza. If you want to splash out you can also check out their Skyview Chalets. From €20/night. Check availability here.

Insider travel tips for visiting the Cadini di Misurina

Here’s a quick rundown of the things I think you really need to know if you’re planning a visit and hiking to the viewpoint:

  • don’t go out onto the lower viewpoint if it’s raining, icy or has recently snowed
  • stay at Rifugio Auronzo for the easiest hike for sunrise
  • on a clear night in summer, this would be a great spot for astrophotography
  • bring a picnic to enjoy with some of the best views of the Cadini di Misurina mountain range
  • don’t miss the views from Forcella Lavaredo while you’re here
  • bring hiking poles if you struggle with downhills
  • this is a great place to try out a beginner via ferrata on the Sentiero Bonacossa

Essential gear for a hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint

Check out my hiking essentials for women if you want to know what I use, love and recommend!

  1. I’d recommend hiking boots, but they’re not essential for this hike as it’s not that challenging underfoot.
  2. Hiking poles aren’t required unless you have bad knees or you want them for the security when walking out to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint.
  3. Your favourite daypack with snacks, water bottle, camera and layers.
  4. Merino base layers (both top and leggings), a fleece, beanie and lightweight down jacket too. It’s all very light and packs down remarkably small.
  5. Sun protection is vital. Any hiking in the mountains in summer requires bringing sunscreen (use code 9LIVES for 10% off), sunglasses and a hat. Nobody wants that UV damage in their lives.
  6. Waterproof outer layers are also an excellent idea in the mountains. Even if it doesn’t actually rain, these peaks are high enough that clouds can cover them quickly and you’ll get very damp very fast. I have this waterproof shell jacket and these trousers and they’ve saved me from a soaking more than once.
  7. A headtorch is always in my daypack no matter what, and, usually, I carry two because that’s how I roll.
  8. You’re definitely going to want to bring a camera to capture the amazing views up here, but it’s up to you whether that takes the form of your phone or your main camera. I’m that person who hauls all my gear plus a tripod up the mountain, but you might be more restrained! If you only want to bring a single lens, I’d recommend a 70-200mm for this hike.

READ THIS | What’s in My Camera Bag

Final Thoughts: Hiking Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint

I think that the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint is one of the most epic spots that I’ve ever visited. I hope that this post has given you everything you need to know to embark on your own visit there.

If you’ve got any questions, comments, or information you think is out of date then please let me know below, email, or drop me a DM on social media. Have an amazing time on your hike at Cadini di Misurina!

Please share this post on Pinterest or Facebook if you’ve found it useful so that others can find it. Thanks!

Planning A Trip To the Dolomites?

With world-class hiking in summer, incredible skiing in winter, and a perfect blend of Italian and Austrian culture, the Dolomites is one of my favourite European destinations. Here are more posts to help you plan your own trip to this wonderful part of the Alps.

PLANNING A TRIP TO THE DOLOMITES | Here’s what you need to read if you’re visiting the Dolomites for the first time and planning a Dolomites itinerary, want to know the best things to do in the Dolomites or want to rent a car in Bolzano

DOLOMITES DAY HIKES | My favourite day hikes in the Dolomites and complete guides for hiking Lago di Sorapis, Croda da Lago, Seceda and Tre Cime di Lavaredo

DOLOMITES PLACES | My favourite places to visit in the Dolomites like Lago di Braies, Alpe di Siusi and Val di Funes

PLANNING A TRIP TO ITALY | Everything you need to know to plan a trip to Italy, my top tips for first time travellers to Italy and a complete Italy travel guide

TRAVEL INSURANCE | Don’t go anywhere without it! I use and recommend Safety Wing.

THOUGHTFUL TRAVEL | No matter where you go, always be aware of the fact that travel impacts the place and people that live there. Being a thoughtful traveller is more critical than ever. Here are my top tips to make your trip a mindful one.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Love my photos and want to know how to take better shots on your own trips? Then my photography guide is for you. Here’s all the photography gear I use too. Want to buy one of my images? Head to the Print Store.

ESSENTIAL GEAR | You’ll find my travel essentials here, and a complete guide to all my hiking gear here.


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14 Comments on “Hiking to Cadini di Misurina: Step-by-Step Guide, Map and Tips”

  1. Pingback: 10 of the Best Day Hikes in the Dolomites | Cat's Nine Lives

  2. we are looking to go around the first week of May to the Cardini di Misurina, and go to the viewpoint.. My question is, is this even possible at this time of the year ??

    1. Hi Mike, it’s difficult to predict, since the road opening really depends on the snow for the season. In this part of the Alps the snow will often persist into May, so the road might not open until June. Even if you can’t drive up, you could walk if you’re confident in winter hiking. Otherwise, the views are still great from down in Misurina. I hope you have a great trip regardless!

  3. Hi! Awesome information and breathtaking photos! That nice couple with the pooch scored having you there! We are anxious about heights. Is it ok until you reach the viewing area? Also, is it windy up there!! Thanks in advance.

    1. Hi Tammy! Thanks so much and I’m so happy you found this post helpful. I think you’ll be fine even if you’re a bit anxious about heights. I’d say that the upper viewing area will be much more comfortable for you, and the path around the side of the mountains is nice and wide. I’m also sometimes a bit anxious about sheer drops and I wasn’t worried at all during this walk. I’ve possibly been fortunate that it hasn’t been windy on any of the occasions I’ve visited, but it was raining and minimal visibility on one trip. It’s the mountains, so the weather is pretty changeable and I’m sure it can be windy! Make sure you’ve got a windproof outer shell for your top half and you’ll be fine! Enjoy!!

  4. Hi.
    Fantastic and informative post.
    Thanks a lot.

    I have a quick question.
    In my Dolomite travel itinerary, I am planning to go from Cortina (where I will stay) to Lake Braies by rental car early in the morning and then, in my way back, in the afternoon of the same day, I would like to try to visit the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint.

    It will be a day in late June (friday, 21/06).
    The plan is to go up to Rifugio Auronzo by car around 15:00 (hopefully some people might be leaving at this time as you suggested).
    So, hopefully, I wouldn´t face any queue at the toll booth and I still would have some time to visit the viewpoint and walkaround.

    Do you think it is doable?
    Thanks again.

    1. Hi! I’m really happy the post was helpful to you 🙂

      Yes, I definitely think you’ll be able to do that – it’s basically what I did when I was there!

      Hope you have a great time!!
      Cat

  5. Hello,

    Thank you for the information. Is there another route to go there besides the steep one that you mention? Or is it not possible to do this hike with a 5year old?
    Also the distance that you mentioned is only one way right? So it would be 4 hours including the return trip, correct?

    1. The steepness of the route depends on where you start – if you’re starting from Rif Auronzo then it’s not too bad – only about 130m of elevation. The 2h is for a return trip – allow a little longer with a 5yo from the Rifugio. I think you could manage if your child is used to walks.

  6. My partner and I are thinking about taking some wedding photos here when is a good time to go to avoid crowds ?

    1. Hi! Honestly, you’re unlikely to have this spot to yourself but, in my experience, people are usually pretty good about giving everybody a turn at photos. Sunrise is usually your best bet for fewer people at Cadini, since it requires rather a lot more planning than daytime or sunset. Having said that, your photos will be amazing at any time of day. Hope that helps!

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