The Dolomites — famous for their dramatic scenery—are one of Europe’s top trekking destinations. The right gear is important for your safety and enjoyment of the Dolomites, whether you plan to go on a multi-day trek along a hut-to-hut hiking route or just go for a shorter hike during the day.
Weather, even as far as the point of ascent, can be nefarious, as the mountains can change in swift evolution; as such, there comes the need for grazing them with a terrible lot of instruments. Here’s a breakdown of the gear you’ll need to hike the Dolomites safely and successfully.
Dolomites Hut-to-Hut Hiking Gear
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Backpack
Your pack is your lifeline on any hike. You just need something comfy and mid-size that will fit essentials without dragging you down. Get a nice adjustable padded backpack with padded hip bars and compartments. For a multi-day hike, a 30-40 liter pack should be sufficient, as it will hold everything you will need, from food, clothing, water, and gear for the mattresses in the huts. On day hikes, a 20-30 liter pack is adequate.
Make sure the pack fits a hydration system or water bottles and is comfortable to carry for long distances, particularly if you’ll be on the trail long each day.
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Clothing
Dolomite weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers. Simplifying the process of laying out your clothing based on temperature and activity level. The building blocks of the layering principle are a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a weatherproof outer layer.
- Base Layer. A moisture-wicking base layer (top and bottom) to help pull sweat off your body. The best options are merino wool or synthetic, as they dry quickly and keep you at the right temperature.
- Weather Layer. A down jacket pairs great with a fleece jacket for insulation. These layers will keep you warm but are also light enough to toss in your bag if the forecast heats up.
- Outer Layer. A new windproof and waterproof jacket in larger sections, as rain and wind protection are much more important in the Dolomites’ higher altitudes. Look for a lightweight, breathable outer shell jacket that will protect you from the elements without suffocating you.
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Footwear
All in all, a decent pair of climbing boots is important for the Dolomites! The ground may be rocky, uneven, and sometimes slippery, so you want a boot that delivers superb ankle support, durability, and grip.
Invest in durable, waterproof boots for tackling muddy trails and rocky paths. If you choose leather boots, be sure to break them in before your trek to avoid painful blisters along the way.
If you’re doing lighter hikes, trail shoes or low-cut hiking shoes will do just fine, but for Dolomites hut-to-hut hiking treks, you’ll get through the hikes much better with a stouter pair of boots that set you up for success.
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Trekking Poles
Hiking poles are valuable for your hiking gear when the hike extends or the terrain is rocky. They help relieve your knees, provide stability on rocky paths, and can hold you up on steep or uneven ground.
You need: light, collapsible poles that stow easily when not in use.
Shock-absorbent poles come in handy when you’re going downhill as well, preventing joint compression and helping you better negotiate those trickier sections of your hike.
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Water & Hydration System
You must consume large amounts of water on any hike, and the Dolomite is no exception. Be sure to take plenty of water with you; some of the trails—especially at altitude—might not have readily available water.
CamelBak is another hydration system or water bottle filter to transport your drinking water on the trails. But don’t wait until you’re thirsty to gulp down: At high elevations, dehydration can sneak up on you fast.
Some mountain huts along a Dolomites hut-to-hut hiking route—such as those around the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a well-known destination in the region — may have fresh water, but it’s always advisable to bring your own supply, especially on some of the more off-the-beaten-path trails.
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Must-Have Foods
This means to make sure you bring food to sustain you if away more than one day, preventing low energy on your hike. Hiking food should be light and high in calories. Things like trail mix, energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, and jerky are some great options. These are portable, require almost no prep work, and provide a quick burst of energy during breaks.
Although many of the Dolomites hut-to-hut hiking routes offer meals at the mountain huts, the easiest snack for the trail should still find a place in your backpack. You can bring along a lightweight stove and cooking gear if you intend to make your meals along the trail, but most choose to enjoy the hearty meals prepared at the huts.
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First Aid Kit
Things, after all, happen — especially on rough ground. A hiking first aid kit is one of the most important items, so make sure it’s stocked with the goodies. Your pack may include supplies such as adhesive bandages, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes and solution, pain relievers, blister treatment, and any personal medication you may need.
If you’re going on a longer hike, such as the Dolomites hut-to-hut walking trail, it’s worth packing things like a thermal blanket, a splint, and tweezers to pull out splinters or ticks. Learn how to use the basics in your first aid kit before you go, and ensure that kit is portable and easy to reach.
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Map and Navigation Tools
Although the Dolomites are well serviced by trails and signs, do carry a map and a compass or a GPS, particularly if you’re heading out on more remote routes. The Dolomites hut-to-hut hiking experience will take you through varied terrain, some of which you will have no signal (or mobile service) in. You’ll also have a second onboard navigation tool that helps you stay on track.
Many experienced hikers use a mobile app with offline maps or a standalone GPS device to navigate accurately. You can also download maps of the Dolomites’ hiking trails beforehand, so you’re never caught flat-footed.
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Sunscreen and Sunglasses
If you’ll be trekking at high altitudes or through wooded groves, the sun in the Dolomites will still get you burned. UV rays can be intensified by the highly reflective surfaces of snow, rock, and water, which can cause sunburn and eye strain.
Pack a high-SPF sunscreen and apply it regularly, especially to “sun-exposed areas in particular like your face, ears, and neck” to guard your skin against the dangers of ultraviolet rays.
A good pair of sunglasses with UV protection that can help shield the eyes from strong sunlight is also necessary. Choose coverage-style sunglasses intended for outdoor activities so they won’t fall off your face or rub against your skin during a hike.
10. Emergency Kit and Multi-tool
It’s always best to prepare for the worst, but that’s not something we like to think about while enjoying nature. Yet a small emergency kit containing a whistle, a flashlight, a lighter, and a multi-tool may help keep you safe in an unexpected situation. A multi-tool is useful for small repairs on your gear, such as fixing a ripped strap or opening food cans.
Conclusion: Get prepared for the Dolomites trip
You need to be well prepared to hike in the Dolomites, as it is an unforgettable experience. Assuming you had the right equipment (comfy backpack, appropriate outerwear, stiff shoes, survival knife, etc.), you would be OK.
Whether you’re doing a Dolomites hut-to-hut hiking trail or just doing a day hike, the proper gear lets you appreciate the jaw-dropping views and enjoy the beauty of this incredible mountain range without the stress.