Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Park · Cortina d'Ampezzo, Vêneto
Lago di Sorapis
High-altitude lake of milky turquoise color at about 1,925 meters, in the middle of the Sorapis group, reached by a trail of roughly 2 hours from Passo Tre Croci.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Lago di Sorapis
Lago di Sorapis lies southeast of Cortina, in the middle of the Sorapis group, surrounded by high cliffs. It sits at about 1,925 meters, and its milky turquoise color comes from fine sediments carried by glacial water. In winter it freezes and only thaws in early summer.
Next to the lake is Rifugio Vandelli, at 1,928 meters. Trail 215, the most used, starts at Passo Tre Croci, between Cortina and Misurina, and takes about 2 hours. It is part of the Alta Via 3 of the Dolomites.
The path begins in the woods and then goes through narrow stretches on slopes, some with steel cables and metal steps. It is not technical, but requires attention, and is not recommended for people with vertigo or for small children. A longer loop climbs via Forcella Marcuoira and descends via the 215.
The best time is usually mid-June to mid-October, with the refuge open in summer; check before you set out.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
4 to 5 hours round trip, with a stop at the lake.
Best time
From mid-June to September, setting off early. The Passo Tre Croci parking fills up on July and August mornings. Avoid rainy days, when the cable-secured sections become slippery.
How to get there
From Cortina, about 8 km to Passo Tre Croci, by car or local bus in season. Trail 215 starts a few meters from the pass, in the direction of Misurina.
Tip
Wear hiking boots, bring water and warm clothing, and plan your return with time to spare. Stay on the marked trail and respect the lake shore.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lago di Sorapis
How long does the trail to Lago di Sorapis take?
About 2 hours each way on trail 215, from Passo Tre Croci—roughly the same for the return.
Is the Sorapis trail difficult?
It is moderate, with narrow and exposed sections, some with steel cables. It is not recommended for people with vertigo or for small children.
Why does the lake have that color?
Because of the fine sediments carried by the glacial water, which make the water turquoise and milky.
When is the best time?
From mid-June to September. Before that, the lake may be frozen and the trail covered in snow.