Thousands swarm stunning mountain escape as selfie tourism backlash erupts online

Once-remote alpine destinations are now magnets for day-trippers and social media–driven tourism, bringing economic benefits but also crowded trails, parking chaos and damage to fragile ecosystems, according to many.(Simone Padovan/Getty Images)

Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most famous landmarks in the Dolomites.It draws visitors from around the world with itstrio of mountain peaks.

The UNESCO-protected mountains are subject to the Enrosadira phenomenon, in whichsunrise and sunsetturn the rock walls a vibrant pink and orange, according to The Dolomites — UNESCO World Heritage Centre page. 

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Tre Cime di Lavaredo gets over 800,000 visitors per year, per the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike Guide.

Hikers and climbers gravitate to legendary vertical rock faces in summer, while winter transforms the region into a massive and interconnected ski network, according to Dolomites.com.

In response to the growing crowds, officials are consideringrequiring reservationsfor shuttle passengers in addition to the reservation system already in place for drivers.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo gets over 800,000 visitors per year, per the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike Guide.(Simone Padovan/Getty Images)

Drivers must reserve access to the Rifugio Auronzo parking area in advance, according to the reservation website.

Reservations cost €40 (about $45) for cars, €26 (about $30) for motorcycles and €60 (about $68) for camper vans.

Tre Cime is not the only destination in the Dolomites that’s been grappling withissues caused by overtourism.

Landowners near Seceda, another popular mountain destination in the Dolomites, reinstated €5 (around $5.60) turnstiles to help manage growing crowds at one of the region�

Videos have sparked criticism online, with many commenters arguing that visitors seem more interested in taking photos than enjoying the mountains.(Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

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Zanella also criticized the role of social media in reshaping mountain tourism.

“I am against the influencers,” he said.“They are only interested in making money [through] advertising.”

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Zanella encouraged visitors toexplore lesser-known areasof the Dolomites, saying there are “other even more beautiful places to visit.”

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