A guide to over 400 equipped routes across the Italian Alps and Dolomites.
Browse the map Explore routesUnderstanding the two grading systems used on this site
There is no universally accepted grading system so two are used here.
Important: Grades assume fine, dry conditions. A B-grade route on a fine day in September is a different proposition in a storm or with significant snow. Consider both grading systems when choosing your route.
Schall · Austrian scale A – F
Flat to steep, mostly rocky. Steady footing and a head for heights recommended.
Steep terrain with some exposed sections.
Steep to very steep, often exposed with small footholds and longer ladders.
Vertical, often overhanging and highly exposed. Requires significant strength. Not for beginners.
Mostly vertical to overhanging throughout. Very demanding on fitness and technique.
Experienced climbers only. Often overhanging; good technique and significant strength essential.
Smith/Fletcher · Technical Difficulty
Mostly walking; cable used as a handrail.
Protected path with some steep sections.
Not for novices; confidence required, some sustained steep sections.
Steep; requires upper body strength and mountaineering experience.
Steep, overhanging, or requires good technical climbing ability.
Smith/Fletcher · Commitment
Short, low exposure, easy access and retreat.
Longer, more exposure, some remote sections.
Long, remote, high exposure, limited options for retreat.
Dangers, guides and what to pack
Mountains can be dangerous, particularly for the inexperienced or unprepared. In just one month of the 2025 season there were over 80 fatalities (not accidents — fatalities). The majority were ill-equipped or inexperienced, sometimes hikers straying onto via ferrata routes in error or ignoring danger signs.
Be careful out there. Mountains are unforgiving. Don't become a statistic. Respect them.
The Dolomites are famous for sudden weather changes. Thunderstorms often build in the late afternoon and can turn a ferrata into a very dangerous place — you're on steel cables and ladders high on a mountain. High winds add further challenge (see gear list).
Snow or ice, particularly early in the season, make for an entirely different experience (see note on grades).
Other people can be a real hazard. Popular routes get very crowded in July and August, with the risk of impatience and rockfall.
If this is your first time, hire a guide — even if you're an experienced mountaineer or climber. Guides know the area, can assess your abilities, and you can always learn something new. Despite decades in the mountains, we hired a guide for a couple of days, had a great time, learnt new skills, and then headed out on our own.
Great way to go.