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Enrosadira (alpenglow) on the Odle Geisler
5 Sunset tints the peaks of the Odle Geisler, Italian Dolomites.

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo from the Paternsattel
5 The Tre Cime di Lavaredo from the Paternsattel
OPTION 1
Rifugio Locatelli
Start: Rifugio Auronzo
Destination: Rifugio Locatelli
End: Rifugio Auronzo
Estimated time: 3-4 hours
Elevation gain: 720 feet
Highest point: 8,050 feet
Total distance: Approximately 4.5 miles
Start this hike at Rifugio Auronzo, elevation 7,612 feet. The first mile or so to the Rifugio Lavaredo is on a wide gravel path which contours at the base of the magnificent rock spires of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. From Rifugio Lavaredo, weather permitting, there are views south to the sharp peaks of the Cadini mountain group. All around you rise the pinnacles and ridges of the Sesto Dolomites. The Rifugio Lavaredo serves beverages, soup, and light meals. Restrooms are also available. From the Rifugio Lavaredo, the trail narrows slightly and ascends at a gentle grade to the broad pass known as the Paternsatel (or Forcella di Lavaredo) which separates the Tre Cime from Monte Paterno. From the Paternsatel, you can see your destination, Rifugio Locatelli, at 7,999 feet. The well-graded trail descends from the Paternsatel and contours around the base of Monte Paterno and then climbs gently to Rifugio Locatelli. Rifugio Locatelli serves beverages, soup, and light meals. Return to Rifugio Auronzo by retracing your steps.
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo from near Rifugio Locatelli
5 The Tre Cime di Lavaredo from near Rifugio Locatelli
OPTION 2
Monte Paterno Circuit
Start: Rifugio Auronzo
Destination: Loop hike around Monte Paterno
End: Rifugio Auronzo
Estimated time: 7 hours
Elevation gain: 2,296 feet
Highest point: 8,272 feet
Total distance: Approximately 7 miles
One of the classic hikes in the Dolomites amidst some of the finest scenery these mountains have to offer. This is a strenuous hike and involves a full day on the trail. Follow Option 2 as far as Rifugio Locatelli, 3.5 kilometers from the start. From Rifugio Locatelli, contour along the north slope of Monte Paterno past the tarns known as the Bödenseen on a narrow but, well-beaten footpath. The path then begins a rocky, steep climb to the pass known as the Forcella Pian di Cengia (Büllelejoch). From the pass, a short detour will take you to the Rifugio Pian di Cengia with views of the massive peak called the Zwolferkofel. From there, the trail descends in sweeping curves and switchbacks into a basin containing the shallow tarns of the Laghi di Cengia. The trail continues its descent, then contours through sloping meadows before climbing stiffly to the Rifugio Lavaredo where the "loop" is closed. From Rifugio Lavaredo, an easy mile will return you to the starting point at Rifugio Auronzo.

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