Winter Hiking Val Gardena
Winter Activity

Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing

Experience the magic of the Dolomites in winter without skis. Walk through snow-covered forests, across sunny plateaus, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the mountains on 80km of cleared winter trails.

80km Trails

Groomed and cleared winter hiking paths throughout Val Gardena.

Sunny Walks

Many trails on Alpe di Siusi enjoy sun throughout the day even in winter.

Guided Tours

Free guided snowshoe hikes included with your guest card.

Where to Winter Hike

From easy village walks to panoramic mountain trails, winter hiking offers a different perspective of the Dolomites.

Alpe di Siusi Winter

Alpe di Siusi

Europe's largest alpine meadow transforms into a winter wonderland. Walk on groomed paths with stunning views of the snow-capped Dolomite peaks.

60km winter trails | Sunny plateau
Seceda Winter

Seceda Panoramic Path

Take the cable car to Seceda and walk along the cleared panoramic trail. The views of the Geisler peaks are even more dramatic with snow.

2,518m altitude | Cleared paths
Forest Walks

Forest & Valley Walks

Peaceful walks through snow-covered forests around Ortisei. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll or a gentle morning warm-up.

From village | All skill levels

Snowshoeing Adventures

Venture off the beaten path with snowshoes and experience the pristine winter landscape in its purest form. Guided tours take you through untouched snow into the heart of the Dolomites.

Snowshoe Options:

  • Free guided snowshoe hikes (guest card)
  • Sunrise and sunset tours
  • Full moon snowshoe experiences
  • Snowshoe rental available locally
Snowshoeing

Winter Walks for All Levels

Easy

Village Strolls

Flat, cleared paths perfect for a relaxed walk or with small children.

  • Ortisei promenade
  • River path to S. Cristina
  • Alpe di Siusi plateau
Moderate

Mountain Walks

Cleared paths with some elevation, offering panoramic mountain views.

  • Seceda panoramic trail
  • Resciesa forest hike
  • Saltria to Compatsch
Advanced

Snowshoe Treks

Off-trail snowshoe adventures for experienced winter hikers.

  • Guided summit hikes
  • Puez-Odle exploration
  • Full-day mountain tours

What to Bring

Winter Boots

Waterproof boots with good grip for snow and ice.

Sunglasses

Snow reflection can be intense, even on cloudy days.

Layers

Dress in layers - you'll warm up while walking.

Poles

Hiking poles help with stability on icy sections.

Book Your Winter Holiday

Book Your Winter Walking Holiday

Experience the peaceful beauty of the Dolomites in winter. Return to the warmth of our cozy apartments after your mountain adventures.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Best winter hiking trails in Val Gardena?
Top routes include Alpe di Siusi (panoramic at 1,800–2,200 m, Europe's largest high-altitude meadow at 56 km²), Resciesa plateau (45-minute funicular from Ortisei, then 5 km loop), and the Vallunga gorge (6 km flat trail).
Where can I rent snowshoes?
Snowshoes are available at 8 shops in Ortisei (within 5–10 min walk of La Rondula) and at mountain stations. Daily rental costs €10–15, with poles included.
What safety equipment is needed?
For marked winter trails: warm layers, waterproof boots, gloves, sunglasses, and walking poles. For off-piste snowshoeing in avalanche terrain: transceiver, probe and shovel — guided tours include this equipment (€60/person).
Are there family-friendly winter trails?
Yes — Alpe di Siusi has 50+ km of stroller-friendly groomed winter paths, and the Mont Sëuc family loop (2.5 km, flat) is accessible by the Ortisei–Alpe di Siusi cable car (15-min ride).
Are guided snowshoe tours offered?
Yes — Val Gardena Active and local guides offer half-day tours (€55/person) and full-day tours (€95/person) including transport and equipment. Sunrise and full-moon tours run twice weekly.
Are trails marked and patrolled?
All 80 km of marked winter hiking trails are inspected daily by the Val Gardena tourism board. Trail signs use numbered route markers consistent with the summer system, and the Mountain Rescue is on call 24/7 (call 112).
How long does a typical winter hike take?
Most marked loops range from 2 to 4 hours; Alpe di Siusi's panoramic 8 km route takes ~3 hours; the easy Vallunga return is ~2 hours. Daylight is 8:00–16:30 in midwinter.