Alta Via 2 (Dolomites)
10–13 days · 98.9 mi · strenuous · Point-to-point
Quick facts
What the Alta Via 2 (Dolomites) is known for
A tougher, more remote Dolomites high route, a point-to-point traverse from Bressanone (Brixen) south to Feltre in the Italian Alps. Sometimes called the 'Alta Via of Legends,' it crosses high passes beneath the Puez-Odle, Sella, Marmolada, and Pale di San Martino massifs, with several sections aided by cables and via ferrata-style scrambling. Like other Alte Vie, it is walked hut-to-hut between alpine rifugi.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 1,617 ft to 9,419 ft over 98.9 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 42.9 mi · 44%
- Downhill 44.5 mi · 46%
- Flat 9.9 mi · 10%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
How hard is the Alta Via 2 (Dolomites)?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the Alta Via 2 (Dolomites) scores 86/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
Best season & permits
Season: Roughly late June through September, once the exposed passes and any snowfields clear; huts close by early October.
Permits: No permit to hike; rifugio beds should be booked in advance, and a via ferrata set is recommended for the aided sections.
Official trail & permit info
Always confirm current conditions, closures, and permit rules with the managing authority before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Alta Via 2 (Dolomites) take?
Most backpackers take 10–13 days to hike the Alta Via 2 (Dolomites)'s 98.9 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Alta Via 2 (Dolomites)?
The Alta Via 2 (Dolomites) climbs roughly 41,270 ft total — about 417 ft per mile, topping out near 9,713 ft.
When is the best time to hike the Alta Via 2 (Dolomites)?
Roughly late June through September, once the exposed passes and any snowfields clear; huts close by early October.
Do you need a permit for the Alta Via 2 (Dolomites)?
No permit to hike; rifugio beds should be booked in advance, and a via ferrata set is recommended for the aided sections.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.