Antelao (3,264 m) is the second highest peak of Dolomites (after the "Queen" Marmolada 3,343 m) and is known as "King of the Dolomites". The normal route to the summit is not a via ferrata (unlike many other peaks in Dolomites), and requires grade I-II scrambling on exposed rocks without any safety rope. The tour can be done in 1 day but requires good fitness level. If you want to take it easy, consider taking a overnight stop at Rifugio Galassi near Forcella Picollo.
Ascent: The starting point of the tour is the parking lot near the cable car station. The path till Rifugio Scotter is easy and wide. From Rifugio Scotter follow path 229/227 to Forcella Picollo over some scree. From Forcella Picollo you can descent 100m to stay in the hut (Refugio Galassi) or continue directly to the summit.
From Forcella Picollo, you follow the direct Antelao. The path goes through scree, and rock sometimes. The overall path is marked with red dots and cairns. The scrambling part starts at around 2400m. At approx 2700m, you reach the broad (La Bala) ridge to the summit. After this you have to go through the huge ramp "Laste" which is very exposed in some areas. After the slab you climb over a chimney (grade II scrambling). The last 100 m to the summit, it might be tricky to find the path so you have to be extra careful. There used to be a shelter Bivacco Cosi that was destroyed in 2014 by rockfall. In good days, you can enjoy beautiful panorama from the summit.
Descent: Same as ascent, you can make a stop at Rifugio Galassi (add 100m more elevation to the tour).
Weather: Peak, Valley
In winter you need ice axe and crampons. The tour should be avoided in wet conditions.
