If you love long hikes at altitude and want to immerse yourself in one of the most majestic landscapes of the Dolomites, the Sassolungo and Sassopiatto Loop is an experience you can’t miss. This circular route takes you literally around two of the most spectacular massifs in the Alpe di Siusi: Sassolungo (3,181 m) and Sassopiatto (2,958 m).. Get ready for a day of endless views, alpine silence, welcoming mountain huts, and a great sense of accomplishment.

Starting point and how to plan the route

The ideal starting point is Passo Sella (2,180 m), easily accessible by car from Selva di Val Gardena or Canazei. You can park near Rifugio Valentini or the cable car station that leads to Rifugio Toni Demetz. The classic hike follows a clockwise direction, but you can just as well do it counterclockwise.

The route is about 16 km long, with 750 meters of elevation gain, and takes about 6 hours of actual walking time,not counting breaks. It’s a hike that requires a decent level of fitness but no technical skills: the trails are well-marked and suitable even for those with no via ferrata or climbing experience.

Step-by-step itinerary

From Passo Sella, set off along the Friedrich-August-Weg trail , which runs at the foot of the Sassolungo and offers magnificent views of the Sella Group. After about an hour and a half, you’ll reach Rifugio Sandro Pertini and, shortly after, Rifugio Sasso Piatto (2,300 m), both perfect for a coffee or a slice of strudel.

Continue along the southern side of the Sassopiatto toward Rifugio Zallinger, crossing open pastures with sweeping views of the Marmolada, the Catinaccio Group, and the Latemar. From here, you enter the most chill and panoramic stretch, immersed in the green meadows of the Alpe di Siusi.

After passing Rifugio Comici, head back toward Passo Sella to close the loop with a final ascent that rewards you with a spectacular view of the Sassolungo now behind you.

When to go, what to bring and useful tips

The ideal period is from mid-June to late September, when the huts are open and the trails are free of snow. Set out early in the morning so you have plenty of time to walk at an easy pace and enjoy your breaks. Wear comfortable hiking boots and bring water, sunscreen, a windproof jacket, and something to eat—though the huts along the route serve excellent alpine cuisine.

The loop is not recommended in bad weather, especially because there are sections exposed to wind or that can become slippery.