Gablersteig Loop Trail

The Tour of the Dolomites for the Plose hut and the Grande Gabler typically starts near the Plose Mountain Cable Car Top Station. You can find parking at the base station of the Plose cable car, which provides access to the trailhead.

This loop tour is rated as moderate. While it features mostly accessible paths, good fitness and sure-footedness are required, particularly on a short, approximately 50-meter section leading to the summit of Großer Gabler. It corresponds to approximately SAC 2-3 on the Swiss Alpine Club Hiking Scale.

The trail offers diverse terrain. You'll encounter accessible paths, unpaved sections, and alpine environments. Parts of the route, such as the initial section along the 'Woody Walk', are leisurely and wind through forests. As you ascend towards Mount Gabler, the path gently slopes through heath landscapes.

Key highlights include the Rifugio Città di Bressanone alla Plose (Plose Hut), offering fantastic views of the Dolomites and the Eisack Valley. The Großer Gabler / Monte Forca Grande Summit provides breathtaking alpine panoramas of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites, including the Odle peaks and Sas de Putia. You'll also pass by the Rossalm.

Parts of the route, such as the initial section along the 'Woody Walk', are described as leisurely and suitable for families. However, the overall moderate difficulty and the short section requiring sure-footedness near the summit mean that families with younger children or those less experienced in alpine hiking should assess their capabilities for the full loop.

Yes, the route intersects with several other trails. You'll find sections that are part of the Gablersteig, Alta Via n. 2 delle Dolomiti - Dolomiten-Höhenweg Nr. 2, Brixener Höhenweg, and the Woody Walk, among others.

Yes, the trail passes by the Rifugio Città di Bressanone alla Plose (Plose Hut) and the Rossalm. Both offer opportunities for resting and enjoying local culinary delights amidst the stunning scenery.

The best time to hike this trail is typically from late spring to early autumn, generally from June to September. During these months, the weather is usually more stable, and the trails are clear of snow, offering optimal conditions for hiking and enjoying the panoramic views.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on this trail. It's advisable to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or grazing animals, and to ensure you carry enough water for them.

While the Plose area is considered a gateway to the Dolomites, and the trail offers views of the Puez-Geisler Nature Park, there are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this particular loop tour itself. However, always check local regulations before your visit, especially concerning protected areas.

The summit of Großer Gabler / Monte Forca Grande is notable for offering an exceptional alpine panorama with ample space to relax, which is often hard to find on other popular peaks. From here, you get expansive views of the Dolomites, including the Sas de Putia and the Odle groups.