Vârtop Saddle – Mount Găina

At a glance

A one-day route of 26.7 km with 1,190 m of ascent from Vârtop Saddle to Mount Găina. Estimated walking time: about 8.5 h, not counting stops. Difficulty: hard. Waymarking: red.

Route stages

1. 0–4 kmClimb of 480 m to Piatra Grăitoare
2. 4–10 kmAlong the ridge at 1,510–1,810 m, past Biharia, Cucurbăta Mare
3. 10–13 kmDescent of 350 m (down to 1,455 m)
4. 13–17 kmGentle ups and downs at 1,370–1,460 m, past Piatra Aradului
5. 17–18 kmDescent of 140 m (down to 1,272 m)
6. 18–27 kmGentle ups and downs at 1,270–1,460 m, past Găina

Steepest kilometre: km 10–11, a descent of 270 m (≈27%), near Cucurbăta Mare.

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 2, 13 and 22. There are no springs between km 3 and 13 — carry at least 2 l of water.

When to go

Best time: June to September. In winter only for experienced hikers with proper gear: avalanche danger is possible. About 9 km of the route runs above 1,500 m, where the weather changes quickly — check the forecast.

Getting there

Start: Vârtop Saddle. This is a one-way route: the finish is 19 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 8.5 h, not counting stops.

Is there water on the route?

Springs near the trail: at km 2, 13 and 22. There are no springs between km 3 and 13 — carry at least 2 l of water.