Hanzova pot on Prisojnik

One of the longest and most demanding mountain trails in Slovenia, Hanzova pot, which leads from Koča na Gozdu to Prisojnik / Prisank, has now been renewed. Although the trail is safer after the renovation, it is still intended only for experienced hikers, as emphasised by Jurij Videc, a trail maintainer from the Alpine Association of Slovenia and leader of the six-member team responsible for the restoration.

According to Videc, Hanzova pot on Prisojnik is one of the longest and most demanding routes in the Julian Alps. To complete it safely, hikers need to be in good physical condition and equipped with appropriate safety gear. He recommends visiting the trail during the summer, when the days are longer, because even very experienced hikers will need considerably more than eight hours for the full route and return. Despite its difficulty, the trail is considered one of the most beautiful mountain routes in Slovenia, offering many exceptional viewpoints.

Most of the renovation work was carried out last autumn. First, members of the Mountaineering Club Kranjska Gora and the Mountain Rescue Service Kranjska Gora completed the preparatory work, clearing the route and removing two larger rocks. After that, the trail maintenance team from the Alpine Association of Slovenia continued with the main restoration. Because of poor weather conditions, they were unable to finish the upper section of Prisojnik last year, so this part was completed in August this year.

The renovation took place on steep, exposed, and demanding terrain, where every step required great caution. The work was supported and funded by Zavarovalnica Triglav.

The hike to Prisank or Prisojnik via Hanzova pot, also known as the Hanz Trail, is an exhilarating adventure that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Julian Alps of Slovenia. Hanzova pot is named after the legendary mountaineer and guide, Jakob Aljaž, also known as “Hanz”.

The trail begins near the Vršič Pass, a picturesque mountain pass that offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. From the trailhead, hikers embark on a challenging ascent that winds through rugged terrain and towering rock formations.

As you ascend along Hanzova pot, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of the Julian Alps and the verdant valleys below. The trail meanders through alpine meadows adorned with colourful wildflowers during the summer, while snow-covered slopes create a pristine winter wonderland during the colder seasons.

One of the hike highlights is the opportunity to traverse the Via Ferrata sections, where climbers can test their skills while navigating iron rungs and cables affixed to the rock face. These exhilarating passages provide a thrilling challenge and offer unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape.

As you continue along the trail, you’ll pass by crystal-clear streams, towering cliffs, and dramatic rock formations sculpted by the forces of nature. Watch for wildlife, such as chamois, ibex, and eagles, which inhabit these rugged mountains.

After a challenging ascent, hikers reach the summit of Prisank or Prisojnik, where they are rewarded with panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. The jagged peaks of the Julian Alps pierce the sky, while the valleys below lie bathed in a sea of greenery.

At the summit, hikers can take a moment to savour their achievements and soak in the awe-inspiring beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a casual hiker, the hike to Prisank or Prisojnik via Hanzova pot offers an unforgettable adventure that showcases the raw and untamed beauty of the Slovenian Alps.

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“Since we assembled a well-coordinated team, everyone knew their tasks: a part of the team was responsible for transporting materials and tools, two members handled the finishing, and two managed the installation. First, we worked on the section above the junction for the Kopiščarjeva pot under Turn, then we moved into the gully where we shifted the trail vertically before the snowfield. Next was the restoration of the lower section above the sign for Hanzova stena, where we also replaced the original pitons and the steel cable dating back to 1926. All of this was completed last year. This year, we finished the work by improving the section at the top of Prisojnik,” described Jurij Videc, the progress of the renovation.

On the trail that received the most votes from hikers in last year’s selection for the best mountain trail, trail maintainers replaced 90 meters of steel cable, 25 rope pitons, and 2 step pitons. Additionally, they installed 10 new double-step pitons and 14 ladder pitons.

As mentioned, Hanzova pot, where hikers must overcome an elevation difference of 1350 meters, was renovated under the framework of the “Best Mountain Trail” selection, a collaboration between the Alpine Association of Slovenia and Zavarovalnica Triglav (Triglav Insurance). The Alpine Association selects the trails in need of renovation, and then hikers and mountaineers vote for the one they consider the most beautiful or in greatest need of renovation.

This year, the most votes were given to the trail that stretches between the peaks Brana and Planjava. Supported by Zavarovalnica Triglav, seven trail maintainers from the Mountaineering Club Kamnik, including members of the technical team of trail maintainers from the Alpine Association of Slovenia, will be responsible for its renovation. On this highly popular and well-visited mountain trail, according to current conditions, they are expected to refresh the markings along the entire trail and replace safety devices on exposed sections in the following year, as communicated by the insurance company.

Below, you can see photos of the renovation. Photo: Grega Eržen.

Source: here

DISCLAIMER

Disclaimer: While Erjavčeva koča (Erjavčeva mountain hut) and the surrounding area offer breathtaking scenery and exciting outdoor opportunities, it’s important to remember that winter mountain environments can be unpredictable and potentially hazardous. Visitors should exercise caution, be adequately prepared with appropriate gear and equipment, and stay informed about weather conditions and avalanche risk. The information provided here is intended as general guidance and inspiration only. Erjavčeva koča does not assume responsibility for the safety of individuals who explore the area based on the provided recommendations. Visitors should use their best judgment and take personal responsibility for their safety while enjoying winter activities in the Julian Alps.

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