Hiking the Dolomites: Trails, Lakes and Breathtaking Views

After years of holidaying in the Alps of Austria and Switzerland, I finally explored the Dolomites. The Dolomites turned out to be just as stunning—maybe even more so. While planning the trip, I quickly built a long list of must-see locations of trails, lakes and mountains. There were more highlights than time to visit them all. We were a bit late with finding an accommodation. But eventually found our accommodation a cozy and modern apartment in Valdaora di Mezzo.

This small village made the perfect base. It was close to many of the famous sights and also near quiet, hidden spots that made the trip even more memorable.

Lakes, Trails and Mountains

The Northern Dolomites offer a perfect mix of alpine lakes, scenic trails, and dramatic mountains. This region is ideal for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. The famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo is a must-see, with well-marked trails and incredible views. Nearby, Cinque Torri stands out with its unique rock towers and easy hiking routes. Lago di Braies is one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy—known for its emerald water and mountain backdrop. Whether you’re walking, relaxing, or taking photos, the Northern Dolomites are full of unforgettable spots.

Picture-Perfect Lakes of the Northern Dolomites

The northern Dolomites are home to some of the most beautiful and accessible alpine lakes in Italy. Each one offers unique charm, stunning views, and easy walking paths. Lago di Braies is the most famous. Its emerald waters, wooden boathouse, and dramatic mountain backdrop make it a must-see. The loop trail around the lake is easy and scenic. Visit early in the morning for calm reflections and fewer crowds.

Close by, Lago di Anterselva is quieter and more peaceful. It sits deep in a forested valley near the Austrian border. A flat trail circles the lake, perfect for a relaxed walk. From here, the Staller Saddle Pass takes you to Obersee in Austria. The drive is narrow and one-way, but the views are worth it. Obersee is a hidden alpine lake surrounded by rugged peaks and fewer tourists. In the nearby Puster Valley, Lago di Dobbiaco offers an easy trail and a family-friendly vibe. It’s great for a short walk or picnic by the water. Just down the road, Lago di Landro is a peaceful spot with a striking mountain backdrop. It’s often overlooked, making it feel like a true hidden gem.

Finally, Lago di Misurina combines natural beauty with iconic Dolomite views. From the lakeshore, you can see the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo. The view on Hotel Misurina is especially scenic. With the beautiful mountain backdrop. Whether you’re walking around the lake or just soaking in the views, the setting is unforgettable.

These lakes are close enough to visit in one day or spread out over several. Scenic roads connect them, making the journey just as beautiful as the destinations. Together, they show the peaceful and scenic side of the Dolomites—no long hikes needed.

Hiking the Dolomites: Must-Do Trails for Every Level

The Dolomites offer many easy trails for all skill levels. Gentle paths around Elfenweg, Castello di Brunico, and Piramidi di Terra a Perca are perfect for relaxed hikes and family outings. These routes show stunning nature without steep climbs. The area is also famous for beautiful alpine lakes like Lago di Braies, Lago di Anterselva, and Lago di Misurina. Walking around these lakes is easy and rewarding, with breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings. In many cases you can also combine a few of the trails on the same day.

For more challenging hikes, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Seceda, Kronplatz and Cinque Torri have some steeper trails. Luckily, on some of the mountains the gondolas can help you gain elevation quickly here. This allows you to enjoy spectacular views without long or difficult climbs. Using gondolas, you can reach higher points and then explore shorter walks and photo spots. With this mix of easy trails, lakeside strolls, and gondola rides, the Dolomites are accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

The Most Scenic Peaks of the Dolomites: A photographer’s Guide

The Dolomites are famous for their stunning peaks. For photographers, some mountains stand out as must-see spots. Among the most iconic are Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cinque Torri, Seceda, and Kronplatz.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo is the symbol of the Dolomites. Its three sharp peaks rise dramatically against the sky. The area offers many easy to moderate trails, perfect for capturing sunrise and sunset shots. Nearby, Cinque Torri features five unique rock towers. This site is great for dramatic compositions and interesting foregrounds. It also offers several photo-friendly hiking routes.

Seceda is known for its green meadows and sharp ridges. The panoramic views here are breathtaking. The cable car makes it easy to reach the summit for quick and stunning photos. Finally, Kronplatz is a popular ski mountain that transforms into a hiking paradise in summer. It offers wide views over the Dolomites and surrounding valleys. Photographers love the mix of rugged peaks and gentle slopes here.

These peaks provide endless opportunities for photographers. Whether you prefer sunrise, sunset, or midday light, the Dolomites deliver unforgettable images.

Dolomites Map

This interactive map brings together all the places I visited during my trip through the Dolomites—mountain peaks, scenic lakes, waterfalls, trails, and hidden gems. Whether you’re planning your own adventure or just curious about the route, you’ll find everything marked here for easy reference.

From famous landmarks to quiet corners off the beaten path, each pin represents a stop that left an impression—visually, emotionally, or both. Feel free to explore the map, discover new spots, or retrace some of the routes I followed along the way.

Dolomites Trails

You don’t need steep climbs to enjoy the Dolomites. This collection features mostly easy walks and short hikes with stunning views and alpine charm. They’re perfect for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a relaxing outdoor experience.

Many trails are short enough to combine. You can do two or even three in one day. These routes are great for casual hikers and photographers. Walk along clear alpine lakes, follow flat scenic paths, or enjoy dramatic peaks with little elevation gain. These easy Dolomites hikes show that the region’s beauty is just as accessible as it is breathtaking. Some also include a gondola to gain elevation quickly.

Impression Photo Gallery

This gallery features a selection of my favorite Dolomites photos. These images capture the region’s dramatic peaks, peaceful lakes, and changing light. From famous landmarks to quiet hidden spots, each photo shows the unique beauty of the Dolomites landscape. These aren’t just travel snapshots—they’re moments of silence, scale, and wonder. Impressions that stayed with me long after the hike ended.