The "Sass de Stria" (Witch's Rock) is located between Falzarego Pass and Valparola Pass. It is one of the most scenic routes in the area as the trails wind through trenches and galleries from World War I.
We suggest starting from Valparola Pass, near the parking lot next to the "Forte Tre Sassi" Museum: from here the historic trail (red and white CAI marking) leads in about 1 hour of walking to the summit of "Sass di Stria" at 2,477m with an elevation gain of 390 meters. During the ascent, you cross machine gun posts, galleries, parapets, and trenches.
You will enjoy 360° views of the UNESCO Dolomites, with views of Monte Col di Lana, Lagazuoi, Tofana, Nuvolau, Averau, Marmolada and the Sella group.
The return is along the ascent route.
Author’s recommendation
For some galleries, it is recommended to bring a torch.
"The sustainable hiker's guide":
- choose the route based on your physical and technical abilities
- inform yourself before departure about the planned route (distances, elevation gain, time needed, springs, fountains, shelters, lifts, bivouacs, etc.)
- check the condition of the chosen path
- never hike alone
- always carry all trash back down
- please stay on the marked paths
- please keep quiet
- do not collect stones or minerals
- do not feed animals
- no fires allowed
- do not pick flowers or plants
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Show elevation profileSafety information
Always let someone know your destination and approximate duration of the hike.
The emergency phone number is 112 or 118 (ambulance).
Tips and suggestions
Before departure, we recommend checking the weather conditions, as mountain weather changes quickly, and the trail conditions.
Roadbook
Public transport
Public-transport-friendly
Valparola Pass, the starting and ending point of the hike, is connected to the tourist centers of the Province of Belluno and Trentino - South Tyrol by regional bus lines.
More information, schedules and service activation dates at www.sad.it
Get Timetable to destination
Directions
By car
- From Innsbruck, Brenner Motorway A22 to the Bressanone exit, then continue towards Val Pusteria, Val Badia and Campolongo Pass.
- From Verona/Milan, Brenner Motorway A22 to Egna Ora Castle, then continue towards Val di Fiemme, Val di Fassa, Pordoi Pass, Arabba.
- From Venice, Motorway A27 Belluno exit, follow Agordina 203 to Agordo, Caprile, Arabba.
By train
Nearest train stations:
- Belluno - 70 km
- Brunico - 48 km
- Ponte Gardena - 51 km
By bus
- Brunico - 47 km connection via SAD line www.sad.it
- Belluno – 70 km connection via Dolomitibus line www.dolomitibus.it
By plane
- Venice Treviso/Venice Marco Polo – 160/170 km
- Innsbruck - 140 km
- Verona – 270 km
- Milan Bergamo/Milan Malpensa - 310/400 km
Parking
Parking available near the "Forte Tre Sassi" Museum at Valparola Pass.Coordinates
Book recommendations for this region:
Equipment
The hiker's kit:
- waterproof backpack or with waterproof cover (not too big if the hike is short)
- topographic map (or local map with recommended trails as an alternative)
- compass and altimeter (or sports watch as an alternative)
- binoculars
- water bottles
- energy bars or snacks
- chocolate
- filled sandwiches (or lunch at a mountain hut as an alternative)
- breathable t-shirt
- spare t-shirt (preferably breathable)
- sweatshirt or fleece
- windproof and waterproof jacket
- shorts
- long trousers
- socks (long or mid-calf)
- soft, multi-sport ankle-support hiking boots
- light hat/headband
- anti-reflective sunglasses
- sunscreen
- telescopic trekking poles
- first aid kit (plasters, disinfectant, gauze, etc.)
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions