The most popular time to hike the Alta Via 1 Dolomites is July and August.
During this 2 month period, hikers are most likely to have the best trail conditions, weather and accommodation options. Typically, the days are long, there is little chance of rain, no/low snow on the trails, warm temperatures, alpine flowers in full bloom and lush meadows. The Dolomites are a paradise during these months.
Nevertheless, the Dolomites are no different than any other high mountain range in the world. The weather can turn at any point. There is the likelihood of thunderstorms developing later in the day and don’t be surprised if you wake up to fresh snow in the higher altitudes. Although some hikers decide to hike in June and September, there are weather and accommodation limitations to consider.
Read more about each of the different hiking seasons for the Alta Via 1 Dolomites to help make your decision on when to hike.
HIKING EARLY SEASON - JUNE
This is an unpredictable time to hike as trail conditions are at the mercy of the winter/spring conditions. Some years (i.e 2024) there is still a significant amount of snow on the trail - especially in high elevation areas - in June. Whereas other years (i.e 2022), there was a low winter snowfall and warm spring which meant the high mountain passes were mostly clear of snow by start of June.
Most of the mountain huts on the Alta Via 1 open from the middle of June, however, some transport options along the trail won’t commence until the start of July so keep this in mind if you’re planning to use buses, gondolas, etc too.
Those who choose to hike at this time will enjoy the full bouquet of alpine flowers and are likely to see farmers begin bringing their cows to higher alpine regions for summer grazing. The change of season is visible all around.
Expect snow on trail during early season (June). Microspikes and poles are recommended to help navigate remaining snow/icy steep sections.
early season hiking
Check current snow levels in our planning app to determine safe hiking routes
HIKING PEAK SEASON - JULY AND AUGUST
Peak season on Alta Via 1 Dolomites
Hiking during peak season, you are most likely to have the best trail conditions - with no snow on the trails, warm temperatures, alpine flowers in full bloom and all summer accommodation are open.
However it is also the busiest time, both on the trail and within accommodation. Therefore, early booking is required to secure accommodation, particularly if you have fixed dates or prefer private rooms.
Learn about our “AV1 Anytime Itinerary” that outlines what to do if accommodation availability becomes scarce, and you want to keep your AV1 dreams alive.
HIKING LATE SEASON - SEPTEMBER and october
This is a beautiful time of year to hike, with the fall colours all around and less people on the trail. However, the temperatures starts to become cooler at night with an increased chance of snow on higher passes and cloudy/rainy weather. Mountain huts begin closing in mid September so you need to confirm opening dates ahead of time or stay in larger villages/towns that are open all year round.
Transport along the trail in ski resorts (gondolas, cable cars) and buses down remote valleys will also reduce their service or stop from about the second week of September so ensure not to have a plan that relies upon them without confirming schedule end dates first.
📸 @izzypop_adventures from September 20, 2024
summer transport schedules
Access the seasonal transport schedules for buses, trains, and gondolas along the Alta Via 1 Dolomites