Trail Running in the Dolomites: Routes and Races

The Dolomites are not just for hikers and contemplators. For those with a faster heartbeat, these mountains offer some of the most spectacular trail running routes in Europe. Paths that cross alpine meadows at 2,000 metres, single tracks that wind between Dolomite rock walls, climbs that test even the most experienced runners — all within easy reach of San Vigilio di Marebbe.

In this guide, we take you through the best trails in the area, the most important races and the secrets to running at altitude without suffering.

Why the Dolomites Are Perfect for Trail Running

The Dolomites offer a unique combination for trail runners:

• Varied terrain: from forest paths to technical high-altitude routes
• Significant elevation gain: you move quickly from 1,000 to 2,500 metres
• Breathtaking scenery: running with Dolomite walls as a backdrop is a one-of-a-kind experience
• Excellent infrastructure: refuges with water and food along the routes
• Ideal summer climate: cool temperatures even in the height of August

The San Vigilio area, gateway to the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, is a privileged starting point with direct access to dozens of trails.

The Top 5 Trails Near San Vigilio

1. Fanes Refuges Loop

• Distance: 22 km
• Elevation gain: +1,200 m
• Difficulty: intermediate to advanced
• Average time: 3-4 hours

The route starts from San Vigilio and climbs through the Val di Rudo to the Fanes plateau. You pass Rifugio Fanes and Rifugio Lavarella, across mixed terrain: forest trail, alpine pasture and rocky sections. The plateau landscape is lunar, almost surreal.

2. Larch Trail — Pederue Loop

• Distance: 14 km
• Elevation gain: +650 m
• Difficulty: intermediate
• Average time: 1.5-2 hours

A perfect trail for those seeking a less demanding but still scenic workout. You run through ancient larch forests with glimpses of the Dolomites. The terrain is predominantly soft — ideal for joints.

3. Plan de Corones Skyline

• Distance: 18 km
• Elevation gain: +1,100 m
• Difficulty: advanced
• Average time: 2.5-3.5 hours

Starting from Valdaora, you climb to the summit of Plan de Corones at 2,275 metres. The ascent is demanding but the descent on the opposite side is a dream: fast single track with 360-degree views across the entire Dolomites. At the top stands the Messner Mountain Museum.

4. Lake Braies Trail

• Distance: 16 km
• Elevation gain: +800 m
• Difficulty: intermediate
• Average time: 2-2.5 hours

From Lake Braies you climb towards the Croda del Becco. The trail offers spectacular views over the emerald lake and surrounding peaks. The initial section is easy, then the path becomes more technical and challenging.

5. Val di Tamores — Sass de Putia

• Distance: 20 km
• Elevation gain: +1,000 m
• Difficulty: advanced
• Average time: 3-3.5 hours

A route that crosses the wild Val di Tamores to the foot of Sass de Putia (2,875 m). The terrain is varied: forests, alpine meadows and rocky sections. The view from Passo delle Erbe is one of the finest in the Dolomites.

Major Dolomite Races

The Dolomites host some of the most prestigious trail running and skyrunning races in the world.

Suedtirol Ultra Skyrace

The flagship trail running event in South Tyrol. The 121 km course with 7,554 metres of elevation gain crosses the entire western Dolomites arc. Start and finish in Bolzano, with passages over peaks above 3,000 metres. A shorter 69 km version is also available.

Dolomiti Superbike (and Trail)

Originally a mountain bike race, it has developed a trail running event that follows the best routes in the Dolomites. The approximately 42 km course follows stunning trails between Villabassa, Braies and San Candido.

Lavaredo Ultra Trail

One of the most famous ultra trails in the world: 120 km around the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. The course touches the most iconic peaks of the eastern Dolomites and is considered one of the most scenic anywhere.

Rosetta Verticale

For those who love short, intense races — an uphill run of 7.5 km with 1,500 metres of elevation gain. Pure vertical power in the heart of the Pale di San Martino.

Tips for Running at Altitude

Running in the Dolomites requires a few extra considerations compared to lowland running:

Nutrition and Hydration

• Drink at least 50% more than you would at sea level
• Always carry at least one litre of water, even for short runs
• Energy gels every 45-60 minutes on long outings
• Refuges along the route make perfect refuelling points

Equipment

• Trail shoes with aggressive soles for rocky sections
• Folding poles: extremely useful on steep climbs
• Windproof jacket: weather at altitude changes quickly
• Trail pack (5-12 litres) with hydration bladder

Safety

• Always check the weather before heading out
• Tell someone your planned route
• Carry a charged phone with GPS tracking
• Do not underestimate summer afternoon thunderstorms

Combine Running and Adventure

A trail running trip in the Dolomites can also include active recovery days. After two days of intense running, treat yourself to something different: our zipline is the perfect experience for a rest day from the legs. You fly between mountains without using a single muscle — well, maybe the smiling ones.

You can alternate trail running with mountain biking to vary the muscular stimulus, or dedicate an afternoon to easy walks for recovery while enjoying the scenery at a slower pace.

When to Run in the Dolomites

The ideal trail running season in the Dolomites runs from June to October:

• June: higher trails may still have snow, but mid-altitude routes are perfect
• July-August: full season, all trails open, ideal temperatures at altitude
• September: the best month — fewer people, dry air, autumn colours
• October: still possible but with shorter days and refuges closing

Read Also

• Extreme Sports in the Dolomites — All the adrenaline experiences available.
• Best Hikes Near San Vigilio — The must-do trails.
• Mountain Biking in the Dolomites — Trails on two wheels.