Trans-Dolomiti, Italy

• The route should be ridden clockwise, as the climbs are easier this way. You can jump on the track wherever you want, although Brixen might be the most convenient starting point as it not only has a train station but also all services. In Italy, bikes travel on trains for a small fee. Space is rarely an issue but reservations are recommended. Note that Frecciarossa high-speed trains only accept bikes in boxes or bags as luggage.
• The best season to ride around the Dolomites is during the high season from June through to the end of August. September and October can be still relatively nice and the trails are less busy.
• The Dolomites are very touristy and often busy with hikers and mountain bikers, especially during the summer months. You will very likely have to share the trails and vistas with others. Give way to hikers and expect oncoming traffic at all times.
• One mountain pass along the route requires you to take the gondola up with your bike. It’s very simple and many downhill mountain bikers use this service. The lift runs from mid June through the end of September. A one-way ticket with your bike included costs €18 (as of June 2026).
• At km 164 you can opt to take the Padon chairlift if is open. This will save you about 3km of pavement, a simple HAB, and 655m of climbing. Your bike will probably be placed in a chair, rather than a bike rack so you may want to remove your computer or bulky bags. This lift typically begins operations around the first of July.
• Despite the percentage of gravel and forest roads on this route, a mountain bike with front suspension or a lightweight full-suspension rig is recommended, due to the often rocky nature of the route’s long descents. A rigid bike with plus-sized tires would also work, depending on your preferences. The route isn’t suited to gravel bikes.

• Wild camping isn’t officially allowed in the Dolomites, so pitch after sunset, leave before sunrise, and keep a low profile. Just be sure to #leavenotrace. If you camp, stay clear of protected and delicate areas.
• A reasonable alternative to camping is the Mountain Refugios along the Trans-Dolomiti. They offer basic accommodation and traditional meals but require some planning ahead as they are often booked up in the main season. A combination of minimal bivouacking and using these refugios is likely a great way to go. There is no one website that details them all; the names and locations difficulty in the GPX file. Different accommodation options are available; dorm rooms are typically around 18 Euros, with discounts sometimes available if you’re the member of a climbing club. Bring a sleeping bag or a sleeping bag liner.
• There are also several developed campgrounds on route offering everything from a basic pitch to cabins.

• There is no need to carry much food, as you’ll be able to pass at least one supermarket or small store each day.
• If you want to go really light, a stove isn’t a necessity on this trip, as there’s plenty of opportunities to find warm, affordable meals and coffee along the way, thanks to all the mountain Italian. Bread, meats, cheeses, fruit, and nuts found in supermarkets will tide you through.
• Supermarkets are closed during the lunch hours, exact times might vary but generally, that means from 12.00pm-15.00pm. Expect all Supermarkets to be closed on Sundays, even in the bigger towns.
• Water isn’t an issue, as you regularly come across small towns and villages where you can refill your water bottles in public fountains. We recommend carrying at least 2L of drinking water on your bike.

Additional Resources

• Check out the anti-clockwise Sellaronda MTB Tour for more information on the lifts and trails near Arabba, Colfosco, and Val Gardena.
• Check the status of the Padon lift here if you would like to utilize that option.