4.9
(23)
162
hikers
Monte Pavione Loop
08:31
16.2km
1,560m
Hiking
Hike the difficult 10.1-mile Monte Pavione loop in Parco Nazionale Dolomiti Bellunesi for panoramic views and alpine terrain.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 12.7 km for 1.43 km
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.67 km
Wooden Sculptures Trail After Storm Vaia
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
5.43 km
Pass of the Great Peaks
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.62 km
Giorgio Dal Piaz Mountain Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
9.75 km
Mount Pavione
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
13.0 km
Passo Sant'Antonio
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
16.2 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.42 km
2.69 km
1.44 km
1.42 km
1.24 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
11.0 km
4.66 km
334 m
259 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,250 m)
Lowest point (890 m)
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 17 May
14°C
3°C
86 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of the Monte Pavione loop?
This is a difficult hike, requiring very good physical fitness, sure-footedness, sturdy hiking shoes, and alpine experience. Hikers should be prepared for technical, difficult, and potentially hazardous sections of the route, comparable to a demanding alpine route.
Where can I park to start this hike?
The trail can be accessed from Passo di Croce d'Aune. Parking is typically available there, and a military road may be used for the initial ascent towards Giorgio Dal Piaz Mountain Hut.
Is the Monte Pavione loop dog-friendly?
As the trail is located within the Parco Nazionale Dolomiti Bellunesi, dogs are generally allowed but must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. Always check specific park regulations before your visit.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
Given its demanding alpine nature and exposed sections, the best time to hike is typically during the summer months (late June to early September) when snow has melted and weather conditions are more stable. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the Monte Pavione loop?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail within the Parco Nazionale Dolomiti Bellunesi. However, you should always respect park regulations and leave no trace.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the Monte Pavione loop?
The terrain is diverse, encompassing alpine and unpaved sections. You'll encounter rocky paths, exposed areas, a narrow road, a grassy ridge, and stony stretches, including a gully. Sure-footedness is essential.
What are the main points of interest along the route?
Highlights include the unique Wooden Sculptures Trail After Storm Vaia, the Pass of the Great Peaks, the Giorgio Dal Piaz Mountain Hut, and the summit of Mount Pavione itself, offering magnificent panoramic views.
Can this hike be completed in one day, or is an overnight stay recommended?
While experienced hikers can complete the 16.2 km loop with 1557 m of ascent in a single day (estimated 8.5 hours), it is a demanding route. Many choose to extend it to two days with an overnight stay at the Giorgio Dal Piaz Mountain Hut to fully enjoy the experience and break up the challenging sections.
What panoramic views can I expect from Monte Pavione?
From the summit of Mount Pavione, the highest peak of the Vette Feltrine, you can admire the Valbelluna, Feltre, the Pale di San Martino, Cima Uomo, Lagorai, the Venetian plain, and the broader Belluno Dolomites. The route itself is described as suggestive, wild, and panoramic.
Does the trail intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Alta Via n. 2 delle Dolomiti - Dolomiten-Höhenweg Nr. 2, Dolomites World Heritage Geotrail 33, and Sentiero di Sant'Antonio, among others.
What kind of wildlife and flora can I see?
The trail passes through the Busa delle Vette, an area renowned for its exceptional floral diversity and the presence of various animal species. Keep an eye out for alpine flora and fauna typical of the Parco Nazionale Dolomiti Bellunesi.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
I finally managed to do it after two failed attempts due to the weather. The tour is challenging both for the length and for the altitude difference. The descent along the S. Antonio path is not trivial, it is better to do it only if you have mountain experience. The ascent to Pavione is very panoramic. The descent passes through uncrowded and wild places. Handsome.
Wonderful hike on a stunning day. Total altitude difference challenging. Parking at P.so Croce d'Aune *1015slm*. I follow the signs for Rif. Dal Piaz, CAI path 801. Along an easy path on constant slopes and with a fast pace I reach the refuge in about 1h45m. A short break and I continue in the direction of P.so Vette Grandi. From here I take the CAI 817 which, following the crests in a rather tiring up and down but with exceptional views of the cirques, I pass by Col di Luna *2295slm* and then the last sprint towards the top of Monte Pavione *2334slm* (3h15m from the start). Amazing 360° panorama. I descend to P.so del Pavione in a few minutes and then to the plateau of C.ra Monsampian *1902slm*. Here I take the CAI 810 path towards P.so Sant'Antonio *1740m above sea level* which descends very steeply to Scalon, a stretch that is never particularly exposed, but which requires a lot of attention. The path soon becomes a carriage road. Small detour with a short climb to Stalle Piaz and Sorafontana and landing at P.so Croce d'Aune. Total time: 6h30m.
A fantastic hike, first along the steep trail that climbs to the Dal Piaz Refuge, then continues with some ups and downs along a magnificent ridge that leads to the summit of Monte Pavione, where you can admire a magnificent 360-degree panorama. From here, you descend along the ridge to a mountain hut (beware of several dogs free-ranging, guarding the flock). From there, the trail continues, somewhat unevenly (tall grass and steep, exposed terrain) to the Sant'Antonio pass. From here, the trail clears up, although it still features a few small rock steps. It's worth remembering that this is the Belluno Dolomites National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
ATTENTION! Once you reach the Sant Antonio pass, my trail turns along a shortcut. And only for experienced people. You climb on old ropes and the risk of getting hurt is high. Instead, continue along the standard signs, it takes a bit longer but you'll get there anyway. ATTENTION! Once you reach the Sant Antonio pass, my trail turns along a shortcut. And only for experienced people. You climb on old ropes and the risk of getting hurt is high. Instead, continue along the standard signs, it takes a bit longer but you'll get there anyway.