The skies cleared the next morning and ONLY a 8,000 foot climb kept us from the rugged Dolomites mountains. The more we climbed the more people we saw. These mountains were like a giant congo line! Thousands of hiking trails intersect at the many Refugios (Huts or Huttes). Mountain bike trails, Via Ferrata Trails (helmets and harnesses needed), Via Alta trails (Old WWI trails), ours (Via Alpina), and others. The views and the mountains are more beautiful than any photo I have seen, even with the crowds. Since we didn't know exactly which Refugio we would like to stay in and being shocked about the crowds, we were unable to find a one with availability. Similar the the New Hampshire White Mountain Huts. Like most parts of the Via Alpina, flat spots are few and far between. Plus camping is not allowed within the Dolomites. Not only was there no room in the huts, there wasn't even a place to sit down for a coffee let alone lunch. Most people hiking through this area are with a guided trip so food and rooms are pre-arranged.
We sat at the hut staring at the topo map looking for a flat spot to camp for the night. We had no other option and to be honest, we love sleeping in our tent. I saw what looked to be a flat spot about 3/4 mile down a gravel road. Sure enough it was flat, but in a cow pasture with a salt lick. We didn't care. The temperature was dropping and we were tired. Sure enough the cows became curious and the first part of the evening was trying to keep the cows away. Around 9pm I got up to use the restroom and a herd of horses were at the salt lick. They were so scared of me, they took off and started a stampede. You also have to remember that all livestock have bells around their necks (except horses). It took a long time for everyone to settle down for the night.
The wind blew and the temperatures dropped below freezing.
The Dolomites.
Where we are heading.
1 comment:
An 8,000 foot climb????? That's a heck of an ascent for one day. The lack of good camp spots sounds a little like the North Island of NZ. Can't believe how crowded it is!!! But we agree with you ... would rather not stay in crowded huts.
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