A popular hiking trail is located at the foot of Mt. Roda di Vaèl, a south-western section of the Catinaccio Group
Image gallery: Hike to the Rifugio Roda di Vael hut
We start our hike from the "Kaiserstein" car park - you can find it along the road between the Passo di Costalunga and the Passo Nigra, and it is also accessible by local bus. We begin on the steep path no. 9, which climbs in tight bends towards the Passo Vajolon. After this first section, which quickly gains 400 metres in altitude, there are no more steep climbs.
Upon reaching path no. 552, which is fairly level as it crosses the slopes beneath the striking western walls of the Catinaccio Group, we follow it to the right. The route continues towards the Paolina Hut and the eagle monument dedicated to Theodor Christomannos (1854-1911). People consider him a pioneer of tourism in South Tyrol. A fine panoramic view of the Val di Fassa accompanies us along the way. We then take path no. 549 to the nearby Roda di Vaèl Hut.
The mountain hut stands on the Sella del Ciampaz saddle at 2,283 metres above sea level, within the Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park. It is an ideal spot for our break. For the return journey, we choose a different route. We take path no. 548 towards the Passo di Costalunga, followed by the Pearl Trail 1A back to the car park.
The hike is moderate and provides a glimpse into an interesting part of the realm of King Laurin. Walking between pale Dolomite rocks and green meadows under a deep blue sky is an uplifting experience. We recommend planning your walk for a weekday, or during the early or late summer months. In peak season, this popular trail can be quite crowded.
Author: Giacomo Roccabruna
Experienced: June 2017
Last updated: 2026
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- Starting point:
- parking space "Kaiserstein" (road between the Passo Costalunga and the Passo Nigra)
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- Overall time:
- 04:00 h
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- Total route length:
- 10,3 km
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- Altitude:
- from 1.744 m to 2.283 m
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- Altitude difference (uphill | downhill):
- +607 m | -607 m
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- Signposts:
- no. 9, 552, 539, 549, 548, 1A (Pearl Trail)
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- Destination:
- Roda di Vael Hut (2,283 m a.s.l.)
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- Resting points:
- Roda di Vael Hut (May/June to October)
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- Recommended time of year:
- Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
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- Download GPX track:
- Hike to the Rifugio Roda di Vael hut
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- More information:
- The overall time shown above refers to the walking time only, not including breaks or stops. You can avoid the steep climb at the start of the hike by using the Paolina panoramic chairlift: Its departs from Carezza village and operates from May or June until October.
If you want to undertake this hike, we recommend checking the weather and trail conditions in advance and on site before starting this hike!
