Rocca dei Baranci: hike in Alta Pusteria
- Ascent side: South-west
- Total elevation gain: 1,441 m
- Ascent time: about 4:30 h
- Difficulty: For experienced hikers, with sections of moderate climbing
- Recommended period: From June to September (risk of thunderstorms and snowfalls in other periods)
- Recommended equipment: Mountain boots and protective helmet
- Summit book: Present
- Starting point: Rifugio Tre Scarperi (1,630 m)
At 2,966 meters, the Rocca dei Baranci is the highest peak of the Rondoi-Baranci Dolomites group and dominates Alta Pusteria and the town of San Candido with its impressive stature. Although not a beginner’s hike, it is possible to approach the summit by following key stages and paying special attention to the more technical passages.
How to reach the starting point
The ascent to Rocca dei Baranci begins from the Rifugio Tre Scarperi, easily accessible from San Candido. From San Candido, drive up the Val Campo di Dentro for about 4 km to the Antonissteig parking lot (1,525 m). From here, a short 30-minute walk takes you to the refuge, perfect for a break before starting the hike.
The route to the summit
From Rifugio Tre Scarperi, take the trail that ascends the south face of Rocca dei Baranci, through spectacular landscapes and the serene silence of the Val Campo di Dentro.
Trail Features
Difficulty and signage: The route is not always well-marked, and trail signs are sparse. It is recommended to tackle the hike only if you have a good sense of direction or, even better, accompanied by an experienced guide.
Terrain: Rocky and compact, with sections of low friction requiring suitable trekking shoes and maximum attention, especially in the presence of damp or icy ground.
Rest stops: There aren’t many ideal spots for long breaks, so it’s better to plan short stops along the way.
The final stretch: Climbing and technical passages
In the final stretch, you’ll face a short climb of moderate difficulty, culminating in a rocky gully. Here, caution is essential: in addition to the steepness, there’s a risk of falling rocks, especially during the warmer hours of the day. Moving carefully and with focus is key to safely navigating this section.
A well-earned reward: Spectacular views
From the summit, the panorama makes every effort worthwhile: an extraordinary view of the entire Alta Pusteria, with the Dolomite peaks standing tall on the horizon and San Candido visible in the distance. On the north side, you can also spot the Baranci ski area, a popular destination during the winter season.