Watching the racers cruise through the snow-covered trees in the heart of the Dolomites brings memories of one of my favorite trails, the Via Ferrovia or Rail Trail from Cortina to Toblach. This 25 km ski follows an old railroad trail through long tunnels, over breathtaking bridges and past some of the most iconic peaks in the Dolomites: the Tre Cime or Three Chimneys. The trail is groomed for classic and skating, but the long, gradual uphill grade is a classic strider’s dream. At the peak of the pass, a small hut awaits you with warm drinks. I like to save my appetite for the next hut though, overlooking the Lago di Landro lake and up at the Tre Cime. In a region with both Germanic and Italian influences, I always have a hard time deciding between a fresh pasta bolognese or savory schnitzel. Of course, a warm apple strudel helps cleanse my palette afterwards. The last 10 km of the trail cruises downhill to the iconic Toblach Arena stadium, where the ski center is built into one of the most recognizable climbs on the World Cup. Despite being a little tired after the 25 km ski, I love striding up that last climb for a view of the stadium and the Dolomites, thinking back to some of the memorable World Cup finishes in Toblach. Diggins and Brennan finishing first and second in this stage of the Tour de Ski will certainly be one of them.
