Ferrata di Valdaora

Overview

The Valdaora Via Ferrata (Olanger Klettersteig) offers an alternative approach route to the panoramic Cima dei Colli Alti in the Val Pusteria. It is a long and demanding route in terms of elevation gain, but with low technical difficulty, making it ideal for well-trained hikers looking to take their first steps into the world of via ferratas. The complete loop requires considerable physical effort, rewarded by sweeping views of the Val di Braies and the profile of the Dolomites.

Approach

The route begins from the parking area north of the famous Lago di Braies. To reach it, from the Val Pusteria between Villabassa and Monguelfo, take the valley of the same name. From the lake (1490 m), near the Hotel Lago di Braies, ascend along trail 20, which climbs the eastern slope. This is a wide path with a steady gradient, first crossing meadows, then dense conifer forests and areas of mountain pine. The environment is classic alpine, with a continuous and physical walk that prepares you for the equipped section ahead. After about an hour of hiking, you reach a key junction: to the right, trail 20 continues, while to the left, trail 61 ascends-this will be your return route. Continue to the right, following signs for "Malghe Pra delle Vacche - Monte Pra delle Vacche." The trail becomes steeper, with a sustained climbing pace, until it leads to a panoramic saddle overlooking the Val Pusteria (2140 m), where a sign marks the start of the via ferrata. From here, a path that is first grassy and then rocky, partially exposed, takes about 30 minutes to reach the first steel cables of the route. The total approach time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Via Ferrata

The Valdaora Via Ferrata runs along the north side of the mountain, an orientation that can retain moisture or residual snow even late in the season, making the steel fixtures particularly useful. The technical difficulty is low, classifiable as easy. The route begins with mixed sections over scree and grassy slopes equipped with fixed ropes, then becomes more defined on short rock slabs that climb the north face of the Kaserkopf. Progress is mainly along ledges and gullies, with a sequence of easy diagonal traverses that are well protected. This is followed by a short vertical section, not demanding and rich in holds. The most characteristic passage is an exposed traverse to the right that skirts an airy ridge; this section is always well secured and of limited length, offering a thrill of exposure without requiring particular technique. The exposure is constant but never extreme, with a pleasant and continuous rhythm of progression. The fixed equipment ends just below the summit of the Kaserkopf (2414 m), reachable in about 30 minutes from the start. From here, an easy trail along the south side, just below the grassy ridge, leads in about half an hour to the summit cross of Cima dei Colli Alti (2542 m). The total time from the start is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Descent

The return follows the normal route, following the red markers of trail 61A and then trail 61, down the steep grassy slopes of the southern side. The well-marked trail descends steadily and without interruption until it rejoins the junction encountered during the ascent. From that point, you return to Lago di Braies via the same approach path. The descent is physically demanding due to the continuous gradient, but technically simple. The descent time from the summit is about 2 hours and 30 minutes, for a total loop hike of approximately 6 hours.

Useful Notes

This via ferrata is an excellent choice as a first equipped route for hikers who are already in good physical condition. Its north-facing exposure demands particular attention to the possible presence of residual ice or damp rock, even during the summer months. Full via ferrata equipment is essential: harness, via ferrata kit, helmet, and sturdy trekking boots. The region of the Val Pusteria and the Dolomiti di Braies offers numerous other opportunities for hiking and via ferratas, making this ascent a great base for a longer mountain stay.