The Alta Via 1 (also known as AV1 or Alta Via Uno) officially starts at Lago di Braies and ends at La Pissa Bus Stop (Val Cordevole). This makes it a 120km (75 miles) hike which usually takes most people 8 to 10 days.

The Alta Via 1 trek is best enjoyed from mid-June to mid-September, encompassing a defined season influenced by weather conditions. In the stunning Dolomites, a typical summer day treats trekkers to abundant sunshine and clear skies, creating a picturesque setting. While occasional rain showers or afternoon storms may occur, the trails remain free from snow, ensuring accessibility during this time. Although light snowfall may be experienced in summer, it quickly dissipates by the following morning. It is advisable to pack waterproof and warm clothing, as opposed to solely relying on shorts, for a comfortable trekking experience.

A Club Alpino Italiano (CAI) membership gives you reduced overnight rates at official CAI-owned mountain huts (rifugi) in the Dolomites. Members typically save roughly €10 to €20 per night on lodging, and the annual membership fee (€45–€48) usually pays for itself by the third night. You can join CAI directly through a local CAI "sezione" (chapter) - either online at cai.it or in person at a section office, including sections in towns along the Alta Via 1 such as Cortina d'Ampezzo, Belluno and Dobbiaco/Toblach. If you don't live in Italy, it's often easier to get the same hut discount through your own country's alpine club instead: CAI recognises reciprocal rights with other UIAA-affiliated alpine clubs, such as the German DAV, Austrian ÖAV, Swiss CAS, British BMC or the American Alpine Club. Joining one of those online before your trip usually works out just as cheap and doesn't require an Italian address. Not every rifugio on the Alta Via 1 is CAI-owned, so the discount only applies at the huts marked with a CAI badge on their map page in this app - double-check the exact rate on the hut's own website before you arrive.