4 km
Distance
1h 30min
Duration
+200 m
Elevation gain
Moderate
Difficulty
August–September
Season
The same summit, at the right hour. We climb in the dark to be on top when the sun sets the Dolomites glowing pink: the enrosadira seen on Sciliar, Catinaccio, Sassolungo and Marmolada at once.
It is the same climb to the Corno del Renon, but made at the right hour. We set off in the dark from the Cima Lago Nero station and reach the summit before the sun touches the Dolomites: for a few minutes the Sciliar, Catinaccio, Sassolungo and Marmolada shift from grey to burning pink.
This is the phenomenon known in Ladin as enrosadira, and from here you see it on four groups at once. It does not last long, which is exactly why the early alarm is worth it.
Highlights
The enrosadira on the Dolomites
The low light at dawn strikes the dolomite walls and sets them glowing pink and orange. The colour changes minute by minute and is spent within a quarter of an hour.
Getting there
We meet at the top station of the Cima Lago Nero gondola. The exact time depends on the month and is agreed when booking, along with the arrangements for the night ascent. If you are staying nearby, a car transfer from your hotel to the trailhead is included.
Good to know
The outing is scheduled in August and September, when sunrise falls at a reasonable hour and the sky is more often clear.
A head torch is needed: the first stretch is walked in the dark.
Before dawn, at 2,260 metres, the temperature is close to freezing even in August. An extra warm layer is not an exaggeration.
Routes may change according to trail and weather conditions.
The route, stage by stage
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Night meeting at Cima Lago Nero
Gondola
We meet at the top station with head torches already on. The time depends on the month and is agreed in advance.
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The climb in the dark
Waymarked path
We walk in the dark on a waymarked path at a steady gradient. The pace is unhurried: we arrive ahead of sunrise.
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Sunrise from the summit
2,260 m
On the summit we wait for the moment the sun strikes the dolomite walls. The phenomenon lasts about a quarter of an hour.
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Descent in daylight
Waymarked path
In daylight we descend by the same route, which on the way back looks completely different.
Stops and refreshments
- Cima Lago Nero
- At the top station: open to seasonal timetables, to be checked for sunrise outings.
What to bring
Day hikes- Head torch: the first stretch is walked in the dark
- Hiking boots with a lugged sole
- Windproof and waterproof jacket
- A heavy warm layer: before dawn the temperature is close to freezing
- Light gloves and a hat
- Water and something to eat: there is nothing on the summit
- Sunglasses and sun cream for the descent
