30. Via Ferrata Formenton – Tofana di Dentro (3,238 m)

Arrival and starting point

To Dobbiaco, turn left and through the Val di Landro valley and further to Cortina d'Ampezzo to the funicular „Freccia nel Cielo“, next to the Olympic arena. There is a parking place.

Difficulty and general information

An easy via ferrata with starting point at 3.190m. It takes to conquer about 1.000 m of difference in altitude in descent. Along the route, there are many remains of the World War I. Immediately after the access, a ribbon leads steeply (but technical easy) downwards to the Forcella Tofana (3.125m). Here starts the Via Ferrata, which continues across the ridge to the Tofana do Dentro (3.230m). From the peak descending in direction north across a slippery scree – the traces are not always good visible. Starting from the Forcella Formenton (2.800m), the exposed path is only in parts saved with steel ropes, traversing the channels in the canyon requires a great deal of attention.

Access

Drive-up with the funicular „Freccia nel cielo“ to the last station at 3.190m. Upwards across the iron stairs and further on the large path along the ridge to the summit of Tofana di Mezzo. Shortly downwards, back to the turnoff with fade sign “Formenton”.

Route-Information

After a comfortable funicular ascent, follows a long descent. At midway, the bivouac "Baracca degli Alpin” offers hideout in case of changes in the weather pattern.

Characteristic and technical details

Because of the easy access to the ferrata (funicular), this route high above Cortina is in the summer months high frequented. The view from the Tofana di Mezzo and Tofana di Dentro is unique; the Croda Rossa d’Ampezzo in the north, deep below the city of Cortina as well as the Cristallo and the Sorapiss group. Of course, this ferrata can be done also in ascent, starting at the funicular station Ra Valles and from the Tofana di Mezzo back to valley by the funicular. The steel ropes and hooks are in a good status. Between the saved sectors are many walking passages (foothold necessary).

Descent

From the summit of the Tofana di Dentro (indication „Formenton”) following the red marked traces, passing the bivouac "Baracca degli Alpin” and further to the Forcella Formenton (2.860m). The continuing descent requires major attention and foothold (only partly saved). Although scarce red-white marks indicate the further path, you need a good orientation, especially in case of fog. A way through the cliff gives the view to the final destination, the mountain station of the funicular Ra Valles.

Following the path number 407 until the fork underneath the mountain station, turn right and further to the station (2.470m). Descent by funicular to the valley (consider timetable at the route planning).