Lago di Pontesei - Rifugio Bosconero Loop Hike

The excursion to the Bosconero refuge is a trek of medium difficulty. The altitude difference to be faced is 650 meters for a total length of approximately 8 km. This refuge in the Val di Zoldo can be reached in two hours via a relatively steep path immersed in a grove mainly of beech trees. If you want to do the ring, path 485, advisable uphill, has some slightly exposed sections. In particular, after the bridge over the Bosconero torrent gorge there is a slightly slippery and steep wooden ladder, where there is a metal chain that helps progression. In particular, if you travel with a dog, the dog cannot climb the ladder and you have to lift it up. At most, given that this stretch is located near the junction with path 490, you can go back and follow the same route there and back. The path, developing mainly inside the woods, is not particularly panoramic but, every now and then, there are some glimpses of the Zoldo valley, Mount Civetta, Moiazza and San Sebastiano. The location of the Duran pass is also clear. Furthermore, you are always surrounded by the cathedrals formed by the Sfornioi, the Sasso di Bosconero and the Sasso di Toanella. Once you reach the refuge the place is enchanting. A beautiful green area in the Dolomites with a wonderful view. The characteristic refuge surrounded by these wild spiers makes the setting very satisfying. Finally, for the second part of the excursion you also pass by a beautiful waterfall, also quite high, and an almost fluorescent green lake, the Witches' Lake. The algae deposits on the bottom make this pond truly special. A highly recommended excursion, worth considering even in the low season given the relatively low altitudes. Varied itinerary at the Bosconero Refuge, among lush woods, unforgettable views and wild Dolomites which also allows for pleasant digressions that always make it different.

On the sp 251 (Pontesei locality, 825 m) just upstream of the artificial basin, take path 490 (signs). At an altitude of 925 m, ignore the branch on the right of path 485 (to Casera dei Zot, Colaz, Croda Bianca), higher up a path joins from the left that goes up from Pontesei, just beyond (1060 m, Pian del Mugon), on the left is path 491 of the Anello Zoldano and on the right another path starts at the Zot casera. Continue along path 490, cross the bed of Val Bosconero, then a stream and then a second and after the confluence with path 485 (from the right), you arrive at the refuge (1457 m; 1.45 hours).

The view from the Bosconero refuge is stunning, where it is possible to admire the Civetta chain.