4.7
(102)
596
hikers
Road of the Heroes
05:41
15.4km
830m
Hiking
Hike the difficult 9.6-mile Strada degli Eroi to Rifugio Achille Papa, gaining 2727 feet with historical sites and dramatic mountain views.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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597 m
Strada degli Eroi
Highlight • Trail
5.03 km
Strada degli Eroi Trail
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
9.10 km
Soglio Degli Eroi
Peak
9.70 km
General Achille Papa Refuge
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
9.76 km
Picnic at 1930 m Under the Stars
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
15.4 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
13.2 km
1.81 km
431 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
13.2 km
1.81 km
381 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 28 May
23°C
11°C
26 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the trail to Rifugio Achille Papa start and where can I park?
The trail, also known as the Strada degli Eroi, typically starts from Pian delle Fugazze. Parking is available at Pian delle Fugazze, which serves as the main trailhead for this route.
Is this hike suitable for beginners?
This hike is classified as difficult. While generally manageable for experienced hikers, some sections carved into vertical rock faces might be challenging for beginners or those with limited hiking experience. The overall gradient is consistent but not excessively steep, except for the final section leading up to the Galleria d'Havet.
How long does it typically take to hike to Rifugio Achille Papa?
The walking time to Rifugio Achille Papa is usually between 2 hours 15 minutes and 3 hours, covering approximately 10.5 to 10.6 kilometers from Pian delle Fugazze.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?
The route is largely a former military mule road. The surface is primarily natural and can be uneven, though some turns are asphalted. After the Galleria d'Havet, the landscape becomes more rugged and rocky, with sections carved directly into vertical rock faces.
What historical landmarks or viewpoints will I see along the way?
You'll encounter significant historical remnants from World War I, such as trenches and military posts. The "true" Strada degli Eroi section is particularly notable, with plaques honoring 15 Gold Medals of Military Valor. You'll also pass through the Galleria d'Havet. From higher vantage points like Cima Palon, you can enjoy stunning views of surrounding mountains like Asiago, Alpe Cimbra, Lessinia, Monte Baldo, and even the distant Dolomites.
Is the Strada degli Eroi to Rifugio Achille Papa trail dog-friendly?
Information regarding dog-friendliness for this specific trail is not explicitly stated in the provided sources. It's always best to check local regulations or contact the Rifugio directly before bringing your dog.
What is the best time of year to hike this route?
The best time to hike this route is typically during the warmer months. Winter hiking is strongly discouraged due to treacherous conditions caused by ice and snow, and the trail is officially closed during these months.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for hiking in the Piccole Dolomiti?
Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for hiking the Strada degli Eroi or other trails within the Piccole Dolomiti area. However, it's always a good idea to check with local tourist information centers for any updated regulations or specific requirements before your visit.
Does this trail connect with other popular routes?
Yes, the route is primarily the Strada degli Eroi itself, which is a significant trail. It also overlaps with sections of the Sentiero della Pace and the European long distance path E5 - Italy.
Can I hike the Strada degli Eroi in winter?
No, winter hiking on the Strada degli Eroi is strongly discouraged. The trail is officially closed during the winter months due to hazardous conditions caused by ice and snow, which can make it extremely treacherous.
Are there facilities or places to eat near the end of the trail?
Yes, the trail concludes at Rifugio Achille Papa, which is a mountain hut. Rifugios typically offer food, drinks, and sometimes accommodation, making it a great place to rest and refuel after your hike.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Ascent from Pian delle Fugazze through Val di Fieno and EE path of the crests. Return through Cogolo alto, rif Papa, Strada degli Eroi. Summer morning, hot, humid with a lot of local cloudiness and stretches of very poor visibility
What views along this entire trek, not too long and not too tiring. Starting from Pian delle Fugazze and up along the Strada degli Eroi (can also be done by mountain bike - see previous track). On foot, however, it is better to cut along the E5 path, certainly steeper but much shorter. The first part, up to the Galleria d'Havet, is almost entirely in the middle of the woods 🌲🌳🪵 (challenging but cool⛄ and very beautiful) but from there on, in addition to becoming a much lighter dirt road, the view changes completely: on the right a set of valleys, cliffs and peaks of every shape and on the left the high rocky walls of Pasubio ⛰️ interspersed with green spaces and spires of the most bizarre shapes. If you are lucky, you can also spot chamois 🦌. There are also some tunnels that give even more charm to this already beautiful road. The destination, the Papa refuge 🏚️ offers refreshment 🍷 and, a little higher up, also a nice bivouac and a myriad of other paths that bear witness to the sacrifices of our soldiers 🪖during the First World War. If you want, with another 2 hours of walking you can reach another refuge, the Lancia. After a refreshing stop I return along the same route as the outward journey, with a few small detours just to change a bit. Wonderful tour!!!
Starting from the Casa Alpina, we go up the Val Canale: beautiful path, quite steep where you can meet chamois. From the bottom you can see the destination to reach: the Papa refuge. Once you arrive here, by extending the path by 10 minutes, you can reach the Bivacco and admire the sunset here. We went up in the late afternoon and then returned to the Pian delle Fugazze car park via the Strada degli Eroi after having dinner at the refuge For this tour it is mandatory to have a torch for the return