Punta Sorapiss (3,205 m) is one of the most pictured mountains near Cortina and Misurina. The normal route to the summit is very long and requires scrambling up to grade III (only one short section). It's highly recommended to stay overnight at Rifugio San Marco. The technique of rappelling (abseiling) was first invented on the descent during the first ascent to Sorapiss by Paul Grohmann, Francesco Laedelli and A. Dimai.
Ascent: From the parking below San Marco chairlift (no parking fees), follow the wide forest road toward Rifugio San Marco. The path goes through Rifugio Scotter. You can also the chairlift to the Rifugio Scotter to shorten the hike. From Rifugio Scotter turn left towards Rifugio San Marco. From Rifugio San Marco the views of Antelao and Monte Pelmo are just breathtaking.
From Rifugio San Marco follow the path towards Bivacco Slataper. The path is well marked till the bivouac. At around 2500m leave the path to bivouac and follow the normal path to Sorapiss on the right. There are no signs so you have to be careful at this spot. From there the path goes on the long and steep scree, and you arrive at the entrance of scrambling section. The entrance marked in big red triangle which you can spot from distance while your ascent on scree.
The scrambling starts with a short II- section and then you follow the ledge on the left. Follow the cairns and red spots and you arrive at the key point of the whole route: a chimney, that requires III climb. When we were there, there was already a rope attached but didn't look official. After the chimney you follow the marked path on very long ledge towards left. Then you follow another ledge all the way to the base of Sorapiss. This long detour can be skipped if you follow the original Grohmann descent route. Although the marked route makes the detour. After that the path requires continuous scrambling up to grade I-II which is sometimes exposed. As soon as you arrive at the ridge you see the summit cross which is always invisible until you reach the summit.
Descent: Same as ascent. Bring 30m rope for the rappel the key point.
Equipment: Helmet is necessary. Rope (30m is enough) is recommended for rappelling the key point.
