Alta Via 2 Dolomiti

The Alta Via 2 runs parallel to the Alta Via 1 but further east, and is harder in every relevant dimension: more elevation, more exposure, fewer people, and sections requiring via ferrata equipment or at minimum via ferrata competence for some of the direct alternatives. The 160km route from Bressanone (Brixen) in the north to Feltre in the south takes in the Puez-Geisler plateau, passes beneath the Marmolada (the Dolomites' highest peak at 3342m), and finishes through the Pale di San Martino group.

The Puez-Geisler section is some of the finest and wildest high-alpine terrain in the Dolomites. The Geisler (Odle) towers are the northern Dolomites' most recognisable profile — seen from Val Gardena, they appear as a row of vertical needles. The plateau above the Geisler at 2500m is an open karst landscape with minimal trail marking, and navigation in poor visibility requires careful compass and map work.

The Marmolada section involves the approach to the Fedaia Pass at 2057m, beneath the Marmolada glacier. The Marmolada glacier has retreated significantly in recent decades and the approach terrain changes as the ice margin moves. The upper sections above the glacier have cables and rungs that classify as via ferrata — carrying a harness and carabiner is recommended for direct routes.

The Pale di San Martino plateau at the southern end of the route is another karst high plateau — barren, exposed, and scenically extraordinary in the same way as the Fanes-Sennes of the AV1. The plateau sits at 2500-2700m and the crossing requires confident navigation.

The Alta Via 2 has fewer rifugios than the AV1 and some sections require camping or very long days between huts. This is a route for experienced mountain runners. Most complete it in 6-9 days.