This guided day hike takes you to see the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Dolomites - Pianozes, Ajal, and Federa - in one unforgettable loop. Three lakes, three unique alpine vibes. Join us and explore the wild soul of the Ampezzo Valley with its mirror-like forest ponds and high-altitude lakes reflecting jagged peaks. This tour is ideal for travellers looking for a scenic lake hike near Cortina with a local guide.
Highlights
- Visit three distinct alpine lakes: Pianozes, Ajal, and the iconic Federa
- Trek through the mythical moss-covered boulders of Beco d'Ajal
- Reach the famous Croda da Lago hut for lunch with a view
- Follow the Gores de Federa trail over waterfalls and suspended bridges
- Enjoy sweeping panoramas of the Tofane, Cristallo, and Sorapis massifs
Itinerary
If you love the sight of turquoise water against grey stone, this is your hike. The Three Lakes Loop is one of the most rewarding treks in the Dolomites, but it requires a good level of fitness to tackle the 947m / 3,107' ascent. Starting in the forest, we visit hidden gems where the locals go for peace and quiet before climbing into the high alpine. The highlight is the legendary Lago Federa, where the jagged Becco di Mezzodì peak creates a perfect reflection. After a traditional lunch at a mountain malga, we descend through a dramatic gorge filled with waterfalls and wooden bridges. It is a long, immersive day that captures the very best of the Ampezzo basin. Contact us to book or check out our other day hikes.-
Day 1
Three Lakes Loop Day Hike: Pianozes, Ajal and Federa
Begin your adventure at a peaceful forest lake before starting a steady climb through lush woodland and mossy boulder fields. We'll emerge from the trees at a high-altitude alpine lake, widely considered one of the most beautiful in the Dolomites. After a well-earned lunch at a mountain hut, we descend via a scenic canyon trail featuring waterfalls and suspended wooden bridges. This is a rewarding, full-day loop for active hikers.
(~5 hours hiking, 12.8km / 8 miles, 947m / 3,107' 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 knee support and stability on the descent)
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and lip balm
- Personal first-aid kit
- Lightweight socks (liner socks and synthetic athletic socks)
Optional but Useful
- Gloves and warm hat (for high-altitude sections)
- Ace bandage or brace for knee/ankle support
- Camera with extra batteries or charger
- Packed lunch or snacks
What You Need to Know
Layering for Mountain Weather: Summer temperatures can hit 25°C / 77°F in the Cortina valley but drop significantly at altitude. For every 1,000m gained, temperatures fall by approximately 6.5°C. Always pack a lightweight waterproof layer - mountain weather changes fast.
Footwear: Break in new boots before the trip. With 947m / 3,107' of total ascent and descent over varied terrain, well-fitted footwear is essential. Pack blister protection as a precaution.
Trekking Poles: Strongly recommended for the descent sections, particularly the Gores de Federa gorge trail. Available to rent locally at approximately €45 per stick.
Fitness Level: This is a demanding full-day hike with significant elevation gain. Participants should be comfortable hiking for 5+ hours on mixed terrain including forest trails, rocky paths, and gorge sections.
More information
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