After many years of no hiking we have decided to join a 2 day trip organised by the local branch of the Erdélyi Kárpát Egyesület.
It was our very first family hike and we were looking forward to it. One of our aims was also to slowly introduce our younger daughter (10) to the world and beauty of nature that is so nearby. We started at the Șapte Scări Canyon which these days is far too busy. Especially after the ladders were replaced and the safety of the climb raised.
Anyone who would really like to see it, though should go there in a week-day or early enough to avoid the queue which could be nearly 2 hours (!). That happened to us on a long weekend when it seemed the whole world wanted to go to the same place. It can really take away your mood if you are not prepared.
After many years of no hiking we have decided to join a 2 day trip organised by the local branch of the Erdélyi Kárpát Egyesület.
It was our very first family hike and we were looking forward to it. One of our aims was also to slowly introduce our younger daughter (10) to the world and beauty of nature that is so nearby. We started at the Șapte Scări Canyon which these days is far too busy. Especially after the ladders were replaced and the safety of the climb raised.
Anyone who would really like to see it, though should go there in a week-day or early enough to avoid the queue which could be nearly 2 hours (!). That happened to us on a long weekend when it seemed the whole world wanted to go to the same place. It can really take away your mood if you are not prepared.
Finally we reached the first ladder and after climbing the third one we finally were just us and the nature.
After we got out from the canyon we followed the yellow bar marking to reach the ridge where the Piatra Mare alpine hut is and where we spent the night. It was a 2 hour hike in the forest of about 800 m climb. The road is well marked one can't get lost.
The day was long enough so that after a late lunch we had some extra hikes to various rocks and hidden places nearby. Just got back, dead tired, to the hut before dark. The view and light was spectacular, so it was worth every minute of it. In the Romanian mountains you have to be aware of the shepherd dogs, They can be very vicious.
The Cabana Piatra Mare alpine hut is very welcoming and friendly, but because it has limited number of beds :) you have to reserve in advance or have a tent, just in case.
The second day after the cloud had lifted from the Piatra Mare Peak (1843 m) we climbed it and had this marvelous view.
I recommend visiting Romania's mountains in all seasons. The hike we had a few days ago is one of the ones that is doable with children as well. All you need is good hiking boots and your love and respect for nature.