This easy snowshoe hike leads into the area of the San Silvestro Mountain Hut at around 1,800 metres above sea level
Image gallery: Snowshoe hike in the Valle San Silvestro valley
Framed by Mt. Corno di Fana and the Strickberg, the San Silvestro Hut sits in the small valley of the same name in the Upper Val Pusteria. From Dobbiaco, the road leads into the Valle San Silvestro, passing the eponymous hamlet, up to the hikers' car park at the trailhead.
Here, we set out into the valley. After 200 metres, trail no. 1 branches off from the asphalt road, signposted as the "Silvestertalrunde" (Valle San Silvestro Circuit). Flanked by coniferous forest, the route climbs gently and steadily through the snow. After about three kilometres, the valley and the path bend to the north, and the forest opens up. Ahead of us lie deeply snow-covered meadows
They belong to the San Silvestro Mountain Hut (Silvesteralm). The newly renovated hut, which remains closed in winter, sits on the opposite side of the stream at around 1,800 metres above sea level. In summer, it serves traditional Tyrolean cuisine made from local produce to visiting hikers.
Nearby stands the historic 12th-century Chapel of St. Sylvester, known for its medieval frescoes. As there are no places open to stop for food or drink during the winter season, it is best to pack your own provisions and hot drinks. Here, we enjoy a peaceful winter landscape that focuses on slowing down rather than strenuous exercise.
After these quiet, restful moments, we follow the same route back.
Author: AT
Experienced: March 2020
Last updated: 2026
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- Starting point:
- Valle San Silvestro hikers' car park near Dobbiaco (1,502 m a.s.l.)
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- Overall time:
- 03:10 h
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- Total route length:
- 8,6 km
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- Altitude:
- from 1.502 m to 1.811 m
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- Altitude difference (uphill | downhill):
- +311 m | -311 m
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- Signposts:
- no. 1, "Silvestertalrunde", "Silvesteralm"
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- Destination:
- San Silvestro Mountain Hut (1,811 m a.s.l.)
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- Resting points:
- none
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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:
- Snowshoe hike in the Valle San Silvestro valley
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- More information:
- The overall time shown above refers to the walking time only, not including breaks or stops.
We highly recommend checking the weather conditions in advance and on site before starting your tour. Don't forget to check the current avalanche forecast!
