At Sorapis Lake

The excursion to Sorapis Lake is one of the most beautiful trips in the Dolomites. The lake is indeed well known for its intense color, ranging from shades of blue to aqua green. This coloration comes from the very fine rock powder brought by the glacier of the same name, which, melting during spring and summer, gives life to the lake. 

Starting at Passo Tre Croci, follow trail no. 215. It is a varied and scenic trail, with ups and downs but a mild overall elevation through a beautiful forest and with views of Cristallo, Popena, the Cadini di Misurina and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. After a first flat part, there is a more challenging section with some metal ladders and exposed sections along a flat ledge, equipped with metal ropes.

After passing these short equipped sections, you will soon reach Rifugio Vandelli, a welcoming and authentic refuge located in a breathtaking position in the center of the grand amphitheater on the northern side of Sorapis, almost on the edge of the rock base where the waterfall emerges and falls. From the refuge, originally built in 1890, it is possible to admire, to the north, the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Misurina and its lake and, a little further away, the magnificent alpine lake set like a gem in the mountain, overlooked by the Dito di Dio (2,603 m). The lake is carved into the rock and has no surface outlets; its waters reach the large rocky threshold of the glacier plain underground, emerging in the 'el Piss' waterfall. The name of the mountain group "Sora el Piss" comes from this name, meaning above the el Piss waterfall. During the winter season the many waterfalls freeze, allowing enthusiasts to practice ice climbing.

For the return, it is recommended to follow the same path taken on the way there, along trail no. 215.