The best way to escape the summer heat in Cortina d'Ampezzo is a guided day hike through the shaded trails of Gores de Federa, where a lush forest trail leads you past waterfalls, narrow gorges, and suspended wooden bridges. Delicious alpine lunch and stunning views included!
Highlights
- Hike through the untouched Federa forest along a route of waterfalls and gorges
- Cross several suspended wooden bridges over the rushing Ru Federa stream
- Reach a spectacular malga for a traditional alpine lunch and panoramic views
- Enjoy a shaded 6,8km / 4,2-mile loop perfect for warm summer days in the Dolomites
- Spot iconic peaks like Becco di Mezzodì and the Cristallo group
Itinerary
Escape the crowds and the heat this summer and enjoy a 6,8km / 4,2-mile loop hike where you'll discover hidden waterfalls and shaded forests. The Gores de Federa trail is one of Cortina's best-kept secrets - a pristine alpine path that follows the Ru Federa stream. As you navigate the trail, you'll cross suspended wooden bridges and stand beside narrow gorges where the water has carved deep into the limestone over centuries. The constant cover of the ancient larch and fir trees keeps the air cool, even in the height of summer. The reward for your climb is a traditional Dolomites farm where the forest opens up to reveal a massive amphitheatre of peaks. It's the perfect spot for a tasty mountain lunch before you loop back to the valley.Contact us for more information or take a look at our other day hikes.
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Day 1
Dolomites Hike through the Shady Gores of Federa
Today's hike on the Gores de Federa trail cuts through one of Cortina's most untouched natural corridors, following the Ru Federa stream through narrow gorges, mossy rock faces, and dense alpine woodland that keeps the summer sun firmly at bay. This is a rare, deeply immersive day in the wild interior of the Ampezzo valley.
Wooden bridges bring you across rushing water. Shaded paths open suddenly to incredible views of sun-drenched Dolomite peaks. And at the rifugio, which sits on a high alpine meadow with the Becco di Mezzodì and Cristallo massifs on full display, a traditional mountain lunch turns the halfway point into a highlight all of its own. Your guide handles the navigation and shares all the history and stories, so you can just enjoy the day.(~3,5 hours hiking, 6,8km / 4,2 miles, 465m / 1,525' ascent and descent.)
More information
Hike - ModerateActive days with 4-6 hours of hiking, averaging 10-13 km / 6-8 miles per day. Elevation gains range from 300-600m / 1,000-2,000', with some steep or uneven sections on gravel or single-track trails. Routes may include one or two more challenging climbs to rewarding viewpoints. Some nights may be spent in mountain rifugios, requiring a light overnight pack. A steady pace with breaks for lunch or cultural stops; trekking poles recommended. Transfer options may be available on some days.
Necessary Equipment - Not Provided
Footwear
- Lightweight or mid-weight hiking boots (waterproof, sturdy, with ankle support)
- Trail running shoes (for trail running trips - not road-running shoes)
Note: Road-running shoes or sneakers are NOT suitable for hiking or trail running trips
Clothing
- Long-sleeved synthetic or cotton shirt
- Short-sleeved synthetic or cotton T-shirts
- Regular underwear (synthetics recommended)
- Medium-weight synthetic jacket
- Quick-drying full-length pants
- Shorts
- Lightweight Gore-Tex or equivalent rain/wind jacket and pants
- Baseball cap or wide-brimmed sun hat
- Bandanna
Gear
- Daypack (20L)
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Water bottle (1-1.5L) or hydration system
- Trekking poles (recommended for the gorge sections and wooden bridge crossings)
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and lip balm
- Personal first-aid kit
- Lightweight socks (liner socks and synthetic athletic socks)
What You Need to Know
Layering for Mountain Weather: Summer temperatures in the Cortina valley can reach 25°C / 77°F, but the Gores de Federa trail stays naturally shaded and cool throughout. Bring a light layer for the open sections at Malga Federa and for the morning transfer. Layer up with synthetic fabrics like polypropylene or Capilene®—they wick moisture and dry fast. Wool or wool/synthetic blends work too. Always pack rain gear; mountain weather changes fast.
Footwear: The gorge sections and wooden bridge crossings involve uneven, sometimes wet terrain. Well-fitted, waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended. Break in new boots before the trip. Pack blister protection like Band-Aid Blister Block—even old shoes can cause trouble on long days.
Trekking Poles: Useful for stability on the wooden bridges and along the stream-side sections of the trail. Recommended for those that need knee support on descents and added stability. Practice with one or two before the trip. Price is around €45 per stick. Not required for everyone, but they help.
Perfect for Summer: This trail is specifically recommended during July and August when higher-altitude routes are exposed to full sun and heat. The forest canopy provides near-constant shade throughout the majority of the route.
More information
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