Character
A wilder and sharper Dolomite traverse than AV1, with higher passes, longer days and less margin for planning errors.
Alpine Treks
AV2 Alta Via 2
A more demanding Dolomite traverse for experienced hikers wanting a wilder character than Alta Via 1.
Overview
Alta Via 2 is more technical and remote than Alta Via 1. It requires confidence in alpine terrain, careful hut planning and respect for Dolomite weather.
- Distance
- 180 km
- Time
- 11-14 days
- Difficulty
- Expert
- Total elevation gain
- 11,000 m
Route & profile
Quick orientation of the route line, start, end and elevation profile.
Elevation profileHighest 2,591 m a.s.l. · Rifugio Mulaz
Dolomity, Itálie
180 km · 13 stages · ↑ 11,000 m
Elevation data for stage points is indicative, derived from Copernicus DEM GLO-90 after geocoding stage locations via OSM; problematic points are manually verified from map or trail sources. Verify against the specific GPX/map before your trip.
Map data: OpenStreetMap contributors, displayed via Waymarked Trails.
Planning
Budget for pricier rifugi, occasional cable cars or buses, and less flexibility for improvisation than AV1.
July to September. June may have snow patches; September has fewer people but shorter days.
What to expect
Who it's for
Experienced alpine hikers who can handle steep descents, scree and changeable weather.
Suggested pace
11–14 days. A spare day is particularly useful around Marmolada, Pale di San Martino and the final section near Feltre.
Logistics
Bressanone and Feltre both have train connections. Internal logistics depend on rifugi and a few road passes.
Resupply & permits
Resupply
Resupply mainly in valley villages and at road passes; don't count on shops between some huts.
Permits & regulations
No permit required in general, but via ferrata variants require the right gear and local condition checks.
Why go
- The Dolomites at their grandest with fewer crowds.
- A stronger sense of traverse.
- Excellent choice for experienced mountain teams.
Watch out for
- Higher technical difficulty than AV1.
- Longer stretches between safe exits.
- Rifugi availability and weather dictate the real itinerary.
Sources
Official
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for Alta Via 2?
July to September. June may have snow patches; September has fewer people but shorter days.
How hard is Alta Via 2?
Alta Via 2 is rated as Expert. A wilder and sharper Dolomite traverse than AV1, with higher passes, longer days and less margin for planning errors.
How many days does Alta Via 2 take?
Alta Via 2 usually takes 11–14 days. 11–14 days. A spare day is particularly useful around Marmolada, Pale di San Martino and the final section near Feltre.
Do I need a permit for Alta Via 2?
No permit required in general, but via ferrata variants require the right gear and local condition checks.
What about resupply on Alta Via 2?
Resupply mainly in valley villages and at road passes; don't count on shops between some huts.
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