Starting Point
The hike begins at the parking area in Valdurna (Sarntal), easily accessible from Bolzano via the SS508. After a short ascent you reach the outlet of Lake Valdurna, where it is recommended to put on snowshoes.
Itinerary
- Lake Valdurna: follow the trail along the left shore, through a forest of spruces and larches, up to the northern bank.
- Großalmtal Valley: the path continues east along the stream, entering a quiet and enchanting valley, less sunny but magical, where the snow sparkles like in a fairy tale.
- Inner Alps Hut (Malga Alpi di Dentro): with a moderate climb you reach a wide meadow terrace, home to the hut, offering unique panoramic views in winter.
- San Cassiano Pass (2,320 m): the highlight of the hike, with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and the snowy Sarntal valley.
Recommended Variant
With favorable snow conditions, it is worth continuing to San Cassiano Peak (2,581 m). The ascent takes about 1 additional hour, but rewards with a 360° panorama over the Dolomites and the Sarntal Alps.
Return
The return follows the same route back to the Valdurna parking area.
