From the Pradidali Hut, a short walk leads to the start of the Ferrata del Portòn, a brief yet intense ascent that quickly gains altitude and offers the first views of the Pale di San Martino. From the saddle, the route continues with a traverse to the left, entering the more vertical terrain of the Ferrata del Velo, which is tackled here in descent. Through small walls, chimneys and equipped passages, the route skirts the base of the famous Spigolo del Velo, one of the icons of local mountaineering, before reaching the well‑marked path that leads to the Velo della Madonna Hut, nestled beneath towering rock faces.
Those who choose to start from the Velo Hut tackle the ferrata in ascent, making the itinerary less demanding and more gradual. In both directions, the route offers a concentrated mix of emotions: equipped sections, spectacular panoramas and the unmistakable atmosphere of the Pale.
For the return, from the Velo Hut you can descend towards San Martino di Castrozza along trail no. 713, passing Malga Zivertaghe and then following the forest road to the village. Alternatively, to reach Val Canali, you can take the Depaoli trail, or continue along the forest road and turn towards Col dei Cristi and the Piereni, immersing yourself in a landscape of great Dolomite charm.
Technical Data
Maximum altitude: 2480 m
Difficulty:
- Ferrata del Portòn – difficult, fairly short.
- Ferrata del Velo – difficult, not very strenuous.
Huts:
- Pradidali Hut (2278 m);
- Rosetta Hut (cable car from San Martino);
- Velo della Madonna Hut.
Elevation gain: 1200 m
Notes: short but beautiful ferratas.
