Lago Di Sorapis is one of those places that will truly take your breath away when you approach it. The hike itself was by far our favorite in the Italian Dolomites. Despite its length and occasional sketchy sections, we believe that you can hike Lago Di Sorapis with kids. We are here to share all the details you may need in order to prepare your family for this stunning day hike. At the end of the day, only you know your child and your own level of confidence, but we think this is doable for almost anyone with children. Read on for our full guide including what to expect, hike difficulty, gear to pack and more. This is sure to be a hike you’ll never forget!
Table of Contents
Hike Basics
- Difficulty: hard
- Distance: 8 mi
- Elevation Gain: 2024 ft
- Type: Out and Back
Truthfully, I considered the Lago Di Sorapis hike to be more a moderately difficult hike, albeit its ranking on AllTrails. I will say that it is long and there are a few steep inclines and sketchy narrow sections. However, I successfully completed this hike while in my second trimester of pregnancy and Gregg carried Maya (18 months old) the entire duration. Not to mention, there were older folks in their 60’s hiking this trail. I would say that anyone in reasonably fit condition could handle this hike without an issue. Granted, you will most likely want to plan a full day to leisurely spend hiking and relaxing at the lake. This hike was the most scenic from start to finish that we completed in the Dolomites and is a must do. Be sure to read more about our Dolomites with a Toddler post below for a more in depth review of our trip and itinerary!
When to Visit
I would personally only hike Lago di Sorapis with kids in the summer due to unknown trail conditions in other seasons. These trails could easily be slipper when wet and very dangerous. Do not attempt this hike with kids in bad weather, it is never worth it in our opinion. Needless to say, we did this hike in the beginning of high season and the lake was PACKED! To the point, that we barely used any drone footage because it was rough to look at. That being said, we were able to find a secluded spot aside a large boulder and enjoy the incredible lake surrounded by dramatic mountains. We felt as if there was hardly anyone there, which was relieving. I would recommend shoulder season or beginning/end of high season. July and August is peak travel time for Europeans especially visiting the Dolomites. Try to avoid this time too if possible.
Hiking With Kids
While completing the Lago Di Sorapis hike with kids, I did not feel nervous or scared. Until I watched a GoPro clip that I had posted on IG afterwards, I had not even thought twice about the hike not being family-friendly. The pictures and videos online make the sheer dropoffs look intimidating. But with proper preparation, I believe that this hike is family-friendly.
The narrow sections of the trail were extremely well maintained and safe. There was one very tight section that had a rope secured on the rock wall formation to hold on to. This way far the “worst” part. Even then, I do not think it was bad, especially when carrying your little one. Now, if you are traveling with small children who can’t be totally trusted on a ledge, I would recommend carrying them for this part. I have considered packing a harness for sections of hikes that are narrow now that Maya is 4 years old. I think any child under 7 or so should not be trusted to walk that section on their own. Obviously, this is up to the parents discretion and only you know your child’s trail navigating skills.
The One Sketchy Section
One other portion of the hike was a rockslide-like formation of small rocks that interrupted the main trail. This was completely manageable with some maneuvering and caution. Hiking poles are not necessary, but definitely helpful in situations like here. This was more of a “you’re going to slide down a ways on your butt if you slip and fall” not a “fall off the cliff and die” scenario. Those were the only two parts of the trail that I felt uncomfortable at any point.
If you’re traveling with a toddler or small child, bring some type of hiking carrier and/or harness. This is the best way to keep them safe on steep portions of the trail. Luckily, majority of it is wide paths through the mountains with the end having more of the ridge walking. I would 100% do this hike again with both of our children if we returned to the Dolomites. Lago Di Sorapis hike with kids is not only doable, but enjoyable and safe with the proper child hiking gear.
How to Get to Trailhead
The trailhead begins at Refugio Vandelli in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Here, you can find parking, restrooms, and restaurant. There were plenty of parking spaces in the morning, but we noticed some cars parked on the side of the road towards the afternoon. As most hikes go, it’s best to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Gear Required
As stated above, the most important gear you should bringing when doing the Lago di Sorapis hike with kids is some type of child carrier for littles. If your children are older (>7 years old), this is not necessary. Perhaps just hold your kiddos hand when going through narrow patches. Other required gear I’ve listed below:
- Child carrier (Osprey Poco or Kinderpack for preschool age children)
- Sturdy hiking boots or sneakers (for all hikers)
- Hiking poles
- Water
- Lots of snacks
- Quick dry towel if going in the lake (FYI it’s old glacier water)
- First aid kit (we love Keep Going’s travel kits)
- Change of clothes for child
- Disposable bag for diapers, trash, etc. (no trace left behind!)
What To Wear
We visited the Dolomites in June and it was pretty warm once you got hiking. I would wear light layers and prepare to discard some as your hike continues. A fleece jacket, breathable base layers and comfortable hiking shoes are perfect. I always pack a light rain jacket when hiking in the mountains. Also, the ridge portion is very sunny, so a hat and sunscreen for those who are sensitive to the sun is needed. You will find the attire to be pretty standard for any summertime mountain hiking…layers are key. None of us wore a jacket at any point, but probably not a bad idea to bring something light in case you get obscure weather, especially for your little one.
Toddler Tips
Whenever hiking with a toddler, don’t set too high of expectations. Sometimes things don’t go as planned and you have to cut your hike short. Only you know your child and can plan accordingly. Our daughter Maya was 19 months old at the time and she was very go with the flow during the trip in all aspects. She walked occasionally in safe parts, napped during half of the journey in our Osprey Poco carrier and was able to get some energy out at the summit. For us, this was probably the best and easiest hike we’ve done with her. I would recommend a carrier so that way your little one can rest when tired. Hopefully, they nap during the tougher portions and you can wake them at the top. Always bring lots of water, snacks, sunscreen and sun protection for the face (hat, cover, etc).
Overall, I think the baby and toddler stages are almost easier for hikes long distances, because you don’t need to make as many pit stops. Once your child is closer to 3 years old, longer hikes become more of a challenge. Our girls have never been stroller babies and don’t enjoy being confined for long periods of time, they’re wild, which I love! However, this makes long hikes challenging. Every family is different. I will say that this hike is incredibly scenic the entire time, so even if you can’t complete it, it’s still worth the effort!
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