Cadini di Misurina Hike: How To Get To The Iconic Viewpoint

Looking for a hike that’ll take your breath away in more ways than one? The Cadini di Misurina hike leads you to a jaw-dropping viewpoint that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Dolomites postcard.

Tucked away in the Dolomites, like a hidden prize that only the most adventurous stumble upon, is the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint. If you’re craving fewer crowds but equally jaw-dropping views, this is the trail for you. Forget the usual suspects (looking at you, Tre Cime di Lavaredo); the Cadini di Misurina hike offers one of the most insanely gorgeous panoramas in all of Italy.

The best part? It’s challenging enough to make you feel like you’ve earned those spectacular views, but it won’t leave you questioning all your life choices halfway up.

But before you grab your hiking boots and run to the Italian Dolomties, let’s break down everything you need to know to make your Cadini di Misurina adventure smooth, safe, and utterly unforgettable.

Read More about the Dolomites:

• • • Tre Cime di Lavaredo: Italy’s Iconic Dolomites Hike Guide
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The Cadini di Misurina is a mountain group situated in the Dolomites, in the northeastern region of South Tyrol, Italy. It is located adjacent to the renowned Tre Cime di Lavaredo hiking loop, with a famous viewpoint overlooking Lake Misurina. The nearest major towns are Cortina d’Ampezzo, which is 45 km away, and Bolzano, which is 120 km away.

The Cadini di Misurina hike starts at the same convenient location as Tre Cime di Lavaredo, making it easy to combine these two hikes if you’re feeling ambitious—or just a little indecisive. The trailhead begins at Rifugio / Parking Auronzo, which can be accessed in several ways:

By Car:

The most direct way to reach Rifugio Auronzo is by driving. From Cortina d’Ampezzo, it’s a 40-minute scenic drive along well-paved roads, passing the picturesque Lago di Misurina along the way. You’ll then take the Misurina toll road, which leads straight to the Rifugio. Heads up: the toll is approximately €30 for cars, and this road fills up fast during peak season. Arrive before 8 AM to avoid both traffic jams and a full parking lot. Saturdays are often crowded, so consider skipping them. Otherwise, you might find yourself in an impromptu line that eats into your hiking time.

By Public Transport:

For those skipping the rental car, the easiest option would be to take the direct 444 bus from Dobbiaco to Rifugio Auronzo. The journey takes around 50 minutes and operates frequently during the summer months. Tickets must be booked ahead online on this website, and the round trip costs about €18​.

Alternatively, you can take DolomitiBus shuttle #30 from Cortina d’Ampezzo to Misurina, then hop on DolomitiBus shuttle #31 that’ll take you from Misurina up the toll road to Rifugio Auronzo. Keep in mind, though, that these shuttles run mostly during the summer months, so check the schedule in advance on the DolomitiBus website to avoid any “Now what?” moments.

By Hike (For the Die-Hards):

If you’re feeling up for a warm-up, consider hiking from Lago d’Antorno to Rifugio Auronzo. It’s a 4 km (2.5 miles) hike with an elevation gain of 461 meters (1,512 feet). Not the easiest trek, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning views before even starting your main hike to Cadini di Misurina.

Now, let’s get to the meat of the matter—how to reach that stunning Cadini di Misurina viewpoint that makes hikers swoon.

Length, Elevation, Trail Difficulty, Useful Links

• Length: 6 km / 3.7 miles
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Elevation gain: 300 m / 987 feet
• AllTrails Link

This hike isn’t going to chew you up and spit you out, but it will demand a little effort. It’s rated as a moderate hike, which means you’ll break a sweat, but you won’t need to be scaling cliffs or mastering advanced survival skills. Think rocky paths, a few steep sections with the occasional exposed path, and tons of photo-worthy breaks along the way. This trail is perfect for intermediate hikers who want a rewarding climb without an all-day slog.

For a detailed map of the trail and real-time trail conditions, check out the Cadini di Misurina AllTrails.com page. The map will give you additional details and route variations to help you plan your hike.

Also, you can find the exact Google coordinates of the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint at this link.

Trail Step-by-Step Description

The Cadini di Misurina hike starts right from Rifugio Auronzo, and it follows Trail 117. This trail takes you away from the more crowded Tre Cime paths and immediately immerses you in a quieter, wilder landscape. You’ll begin with a gentle ascent that quickly opens up to some fantastic views of the Dolomites.

The first part of the trail is relatively easy, with a well-marked gravel path that winds through the valley. After about 20 minutes, you’ll notice the trail starting to incline more steeply. Don’t worry—it’s a gradual climb at first, and it gives you plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery without burning out too soon.

As you approach the midpoint of the hike, the path becomes rockier and narrower. Here’s where the 300-meter (984-foot) elevation gain will make itself known, but the trail remains manageable. Take your time, watch your footing, and enjoy the increasingly spectacular scenery unfolding around you. Along the way, you’ll encounter various scenic viewpoints—each one a great spot to stop for a breather (and some enviable photos).

Finally, after about 1.5 hours of hiking, you’ll spot the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint. The jagged peaks pierce the sky, and the valley below stretches out endlessly. It’s the perfect spot to catch your breath, take in the views, and of course, snap the photo of a lifetime.

Tips for Hiking Cadini di Misurina Like a Pro

• Arrive early or at sunset: You’ll want to get to Rifugio Auronzo early or after 3 p.m., especially during high season, to snag a parking spot and start the hike without feeling rushed. The earlier you go, the more likely you are to have the viewpoint all to yourself (and believe me, you’ll want it).
• Bring plenty of water and snacks: Besides the one at the starting point in Rifugio Auronzo, there aren’t any other huts or water refill points on the hike, so carry at least a liter of water with you. Throw in some snacks for good measure—you’ll want something to munch on while you’re soaking in the views at the top.
• Wear hiking boots: The terrain is rocky, and you’ll feel much more comfortable in sturdy boots with good grip, especially on the steeper and more exposed sections of the trail.
• Keep an eye on the weather: The Dolomites are known for fast-changing weather, so bring a waterproof jacket even if the skies are clear when you set off. You don’t want to be caught in a mountain downpour.
• Check shuttle schedules: If you’re taking public transport, be sure to check the shuttle schedule ahead of time. Missing the last shuttle back down from Rifugio Auronzo is not the adventure you want.

Nearby Hike: Tre Cime di Lavaredo

If you’re in the Dolomites and not hiking the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, are you even hiking? Just a stone’s throw from Cadini di Misurina, this legendary loop is the superstar of the area, offering jaw-dropping views that might have you double-checking if you’re still on planet Earth. The towering peaks of the Tre Cime are nothing short of epic, and the trail itself is as iconic as it gets—perfect for both casual strollers and hardcore adventurers alike. Want to feel like you’re starring in your own alpine movie? This is the trail for you.

For more detailed info on this unforgettable hike, check out the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hiking guide here.

How long does it take to hike Cadini di Misurina?

The full hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint and back takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on how long you spend admiring the views (and let’s be honest, you’ll want to linger). It’s a short but rewarding hike, perfect for those with limited time who still want to experience some of the Dolomites’ most stunning scenery.

Is the Cadini di Misurina Hike difficult?

The Cadini di Misurina hike is rated as moderate. The trail is well-marked and relatively short, with some steep sections and rocky terrain. It’s suitable for intermediate hikers, but beginners with a reasonable level of fitness should be able to handle it, especially if they take it slow.

How do I get to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint?

The trailhead starts at Rifugio Auronzo, the same location as the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike. From the rifugio, follow the signs toward Cadini di Misurina, where the trail veers off to the left. It’s about 6 km (3.7 miles) round-trip with an elevation gain of 300 meters (984 feet).

Can I hike Cadini di Misurina in winter?

Hiking in winter is possible, but it’s much more challenging. Snow and ice cover the trail from November to April, and the trail can be difficult to navigate without snowshoes or crampons. Winter hikes in the Dolomites are best suited for experienced hikers with the right gear.

What makes Cadini di Misurina special?

The Cadini di Misurina viewpoint offers some of the most spectacular views in the Dolomites, with jagged peaks, rugged valleys, and panoramic vistas stretching in every direction. It’s a quieter, less crowded hike than Tre Cime, making it perfect for those who want an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Can I Combine Cadini di Misurina and Tre Cime in One Day?

Yes, absolutely! In fact, many hikers choose to do both hikes in the same day, especially if they’re already at Rifugio Auronzo. Start your day early with the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop, then tackle the Cadini di Misurina trail in the afternoon for a full day of epic Dolomites adventure.

There you have it—a full guide to the Cadini di Misurina hike, complete with everything you need to know to reach the iconic viewpoint. Whether you’re looking for a short but rewarding hike or simply want to escape the crowds, this trail delivers.

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Tags: Cadini di Misurina viewpoint hike; Cadini di Misurina Dolomites Hike