Val Zemola Loop Trail

The trail officially starts at Le Grave (1203 m). You can typically find parking in this area, which serves as a common starting point for hikes towards Rifugio Maniago.

The estimated travel time for this route is approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes to reach Rifugio Maniago. The total duration for the round trip would be around 7-8 hours, depending on your pace and stops.

While the overall tour is rated as moderate, the CAI 908 trail is considered a difficult route, especially due to a narrow and uneven section in the last kilometer before reaching the hut. It's described as the 'longest and wildest' option, so it's best suited for experienced hikers with good physical condition rather than beginners.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll journey through a beautiful Beech Forest Towards Casera Galvana, follow a stream gulley, and emerge into open areas. The path includes ascending through two streambeds (which might have snow and ice early in the season), a scree slope, and areas of mugo pines. The final stretch involves navigating a detrital cirque.

Beyond the stunning natural scenery, you'll pass through sections of the CAI 908 Trail Sections – Parco Naturale Regionale delle Dolomiti Friulane. A key point is Casera Galvana (1613 m), a recently renovated support point. The destination, Rifugio Maniago, is a simple and welcoming hut offering an authentic mountain experience.

The trail offers spectacular panoramic views, particularly from a grassy ridge above Casera Galvana. You'll get stunning vistas of the opposite side of the valley and the magnificent Mount Duranno, at the foot of which Rifugio Maniago is situated.

Generally, dogs are allowed on trails in the Friulian Dolomites, but it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in protected areas like the Parco Naturale Regionale delle Dolomiti Friulane, and to be mindful of wildlife and other hikers. Given the challenging sections, ensure your dog is capable of handling the terrain.

The best time to hike this trail is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September). Early in the season, you might encounter snow and ice in the streambeds, making the route more challenging. Always check local conditions before you go.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail within the Parco Naturale Regionale delle Dolomiti Friulane. However, visitors are expected to respect park regulations, such as staying on marked trails and not disturbing wildlife.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other significant trails. Approximately 42% of the route follows the Alta via n. 6 delle Dolomiti. Smaller portions also intersect with the Dolomites World Heritage Geotrail 30 (14%) and the Dolomites World Heritage Geotrail 29 (6%).

This particular route (CAI 908) is known as the 'longest and wildest' option to reach Rifugio Maniago. If you're seeking a more secluded, rugged, and authentic mountain experience away from more frequented paths, this trail offers a true wilderness feel within the Friulian Dolomites.