We constantly had views of Marmolada throughout our trip and now it was time to really get a good look at the Queen of the Dolomites. We spent one night at Rifugio Fredarola, located at one end of the Viel del Pan, directly across from the magnificent Marmolada. With spotty weather and short hiking days, we took these days easy. When we finished our time on the Odle-Puez Altopiano we rode a bus from Colfosco to Passo Pordoi. We had a leisurely lunch at the pass and made the short hike to Fredarola. It started to rain, so we ducked in to have a hot drink and wait out the storm. The rain stopped and we thought we’d see if there was space at Rifugio Viel del Pan. Even if they were full, it was only 30 minutes or so to walk there, so it wouldn’t be a big deal to come back to Fredarola. Sure enough, they were full and we walked back to Fredarola. I’m glad we made the walk though because we had a small window where there was sun, blue skies, and nice light on the landscape. The next day was mostly overcast, so we were lucky to get the views we did!

It was only us and one other party staying at Fredarola (they are much busier in winter). Dinner was great and our room was comfortable with an amazing view - we certainly enjoyed our quiet stay here. The next morning was overast as we walked along Viel del Pan under Sasso Cappello and the black lavic pinnacles of Le Forfesc. When it started to sprinkle we pulled out our rain gear and didn’t waste time hiking to Lago Fedaia. We had just reached the collection of restaurants/rifugios at the dam when the skies opened up and it poured. We took refuge in a restaurant to have a snack and wait for the bus to Canazei. Our time on Viel del Pan was brief, but enjoyable!

Book times and elevation gain/loss for our hiking:

Passo Pordoi (2239m) to Rifugio Fredarola (2400m): 161m/528 feet elevation gain, 30 minutes
Fredarola to Rifugio Viel del Pan (2432): 32m/105 feet elevation gain, 30 minutes (+return)
Fredarola to Lago Fedaia (2044m): 356m/1168 feet elevation loss, 2 hr 30 min

Total: 4 hours, 266m/872 ft elevation gain, 461m/1512 ft elevation loss