Via Ferrata delle Trincee (Padon)
Must-DoIconicFollow WWI trenches and tunnels along the Padon ridge near Arabba — iron ladders, carved tunnels, and the Marmolada glacier as a backdrop. The most atmospheric via ferrata in the Dolomites. Start from the Porta Vescovo cable car.
Sentiero Astaldi, Tofane
AdvancedThe most exposed via ferrata near Cortina — vertical ladders, airy traverses, and breathtaking drops. Starts from Rifugio Giussani at 2,580m. Not for those with vertigo. The reward: a 360° Dolomites panorama from the summit.
Via Ferrata Brigata Tridentina, Sella
Must-DoClassic Sella group ferrata from Passo Gardena to the Pisciadu waterfall. Cables, ladders, and a suspension bridge over a gorge. End at Rifugio Pisciadu for a well-earned Kaiserschmarrn. Hugely popular — start early.
Via Ferrata Cesare Piazzetta, Sella
AdvancedThe hardest rated ferrata in the Dolomites — vertical wall climbing on thin cables to the summit of Piz Boè at 3,152m. Genuinely dangerous and absolutely not for beginners. Guide mandatory unless very experienced.
Via Ferrata Col dei Bos (Galleria Lagazuoi)
FamilyHidden GemWWI tunnels inside the Lagazuoi mountain — walk through mining galleries with headlamp, emerging at cliff-face openings with stunning views. Take the cable car up and ferrata down. Suitable for fit beginners and families with older kids.
Our pick
Trincee for the WWI history and atmosphere. Brigata Tridentina for the classic Dolomites experience. Galleria Lagazuoi for families wanting a taste of the iron path.