Buceș-Vulcan Pass – Mount Găina

At a glance

A route of 33.1 km with 1,428 m of ascent from Buceș-Vulcan Pass to Mount Găina. Estimated walking time: about 10.5 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days. Difficulty: hard. Waymarking: red.

Route stages

1. 0–2 kmClimb of 250 m (up to 1,011 m)
2. 2–22 kmGentle ups and downs at 860–1,270 m
3. 22–25 kmDescent of 350 m (down to 911 m)
4. 25–28 kmClimb of 240 m (up to 1,147 m)
5. 28–30 kmGentle ups and downs at 1,110–1,150 m
6. 30–33 kmClimb of 320 m to Găina

Steepest kilometre: km 23–24, a descent of 200 m (≈20%).

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 13, 17, 24, 27 and 32. There are no springs between km 0 and 13 — carry at least 2.5 l of water.

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–17, ≈5.5 h — overnight: no shelter nearby on the map, bring a tent
2. Day 2: km 17–33, ≈5.5 h — finish

When to go

Best time: May to October. In winter deep snow is possible, so experience and winter gear are needed.

Getting there

Start: Buceș-Vulcan Pass. This is a one-way route: the finish is 22 km from the start in a straight line, so plan your way back in advance.

Directions to the start in Google Maps

FAQ

How long does the route take?

Estimated walking time: about 10.5 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days.

Is there water on the route?

Springs near the trail: at km 13, 17, 24, 27 and 32. There are no springs between km 0 and 13 — carry at least 2.5 l of water.