Pelmo Loop Trail

From Passo Staulanza, following the CAI 472 trail, it takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach the dinosaur footprints. Continuing to Rifugio Venezia from the footprints will add more time, with the total hike to the hut typically taking between 2 to 2.5 hours from Passo Staulanza.

The trail offers diverse terrain, skirting the eastern to southwestern flanks of Monte Pelmo. You'll traverse lush alpine forests and meadows, especially beautiful with wildflowers in spring, and sections that hug towering rock faces. The detour to the dinosaur footprints involves a steep slope and can be challenging, particularly if wet.

Absolutely! The trail is rich with stunning vistas. You'll encounter a View of Monte Civetta, and breathtaking perspectives from the Canalone del Pelmo and Pelmo Gully. The ultimate reward is the panoramic view over the Cadore Dolomites from the Venezia Hut itself. Of course, the main highlight is the astonishingly clear dinosaur footprints on a rock slab.

The best time to hike this trail is typically from late spring through early autumn. Spring offers spectacular displays of wildflowers in the meadows. While the trail can be done as a snowshoe excursion in winter, the difficulty increases, and specific sections, like the steep slope to the dinosaur footprints, can become slippery and more challenging if wet or icy.

While parts of the broader area can be relaxed, this specific route is rated as 'difficult' by komoot. The detour to the dinosaur footprints involves a steep slope and significant elevation gain, which can be challenging for beginners, especially if the path is wet. Hikers should have a good level of fitness and experience with mountain trails.

The most common starting point for this trail is from Passo Staulanza. You can find parking available at Passo Staulanza, which serves as a convenient access point for the CAI 472 route.

Generally, dogs are permitted on trails in the Dolomites, but they should always be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. Please ensure your dog is well-behaved and capable of handling the trail's difficulty, especially the steeper sections.

No specific permits or entrance fees are required to hike the Dinosaur Footprints Trail to Rifugio Venezia (via CAI 472). The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site, and while there are no general entrance fees for hiking, always respect local regulations and leave no trace.

Yes, this route is part of a larger network of trails. It intersects with and forms sections of several popular long-distance routes, including the Dolomites World Heritage Geotrail 47, Alta via n. 1 delle Dolomiti - Dolomiten-Höhenweg Nr. 1, and Alta via n. 3 delle Dolomiti - Dolomiten-Höhenweg Nr. 3.

Beyond the incredible dinosaur footprints from the Upper Triassic era, the trail itself offers a journey through the dramatic geology of the Dolomites. You'll be hiking along the flanks of Monte Pelmo, often called 'il caregon del padreterno' ('the throne of God'), witnessing its towering rock faces and the unique formations that characterize this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Yes, the Venezia Hut (Rifugio Venezia) itself offers accommodation and refreshments, making it a perfect stop for a meal or an overnight stay. Before or after your hike, you can also find amenities in nearby towns like Selva di Cadore or Zoldo Alto.