Alta Via 4

Route overview

The Alta Via 4, also known as the Alta Via del Groste, is a high-level alpine trail of approximately 80 kilometres through the eastern Dolomites from San Candido in the Sexten Dolomites to Pieve di Cadore in the Cadore valley. The route is shorter and less demanding than the Alta Via 1 and Alta Via 2 but offers equally dramatic limestone scenery and significant historical interest. The trail crosses the Sexten Dolomites with views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Monte Piana plateau with its extensive First World War trenches and fortifications, and the Cristallo group above Cortina d'Ampezzo. The route uses a network of mountain huts and refuges operated by the Italian Alpine Club. The Alta Via 4 is well waymarked with the standard red-and-white paint markers and numbered metal signs. The terrain includes steep ascents on scree, exposed ledges, and high cols. Some sections require a head for heights. The route is less frequented than the Alta…

A high-level Dolomites traverse from San Candido to Pieve di Cadore through the Sexten and Cadore mountain groups, with dramatic limestone peaks and First World War historical sites.

Trail facts

Country

Italy

Region

Dolomites

Distance

c. 80 km

Typical duration

5–7 days

Difficulty

Hard

Elevation gain

c. 5,000 m cumulative

Best season

July–September

Trail type

High alpine traverse

Safety context

High passes can be snow-covered until mid-July. The Monte Piana plateau is exposed to lightning. Some sections follow exposed ledges above steep drops. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Refuges require advance booking in August. Some sections have fixed cables but no full via ferrata equipment is needed. The route is shorter than other Alta Vias but still demanding.

Highlights

San Candido and the Sexten valley Tre Cime di Lavaredo views Monte Piana First World War open-air museum Cristallo group and Cortina d'Ampezzo Rifugio Auronzo Cadore valley and Pieve di Cadore Dolomites limestone scenery Alpine wildflower meadows

Why find a buddy

A high Dolomites traverse with war history, limestone peaks and hut-to-hut walking — a companion shares the mountain experience and adds safety on exposed sections.

Primary source

Open the primary route source.

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