Understanding Slovenia Hiking Trails Markers
In Slovenia, we have more than 10,000 marked hiking trails. They go through the forests, over alpine meadows, vast fields, countryside landscapes, and alpine rocky terrain. They offer a lot of different possibilities for day, multi-day, or long-distance hikes. Often you can find mountain huts along the way, where you can get a cup of tea, tasty fresh meals, and a place to sleep.
Slovenian hiking trails are taken care of by the biggest voluntary organization. Like Slovenian Alpine Association, who make sure, that the trails are marked and maintained properly. As well as safe to hike.
Slovenia hiking trails are marked with a white dot surrounded by a red circle. The sign was established in 1922 by Alojz Knafelc. It is a common markation (marking) for all of Slovenia and also some of the ex-Yugoslavian trails. It is 8-10 cm big.
At the signpost, you can find the name of the route, the estimated time of hiking (average one), and the difficulty of the trail. Marked trails are divided into 3 main groups:
- Easy marked trails
- Demanding marked trails
- Very demanding marked trails
Easy marked trail
means that trail is a comfortable path, that could be a long one or could go steep as well. But there are no parts on the trail where you would need the help of your hands to make a progress. If the trail crosses a steep and exposed slope, it should be wide enough for safe walking. For example, less experienced hikers would cross it without a problem.
Demanding marked trail
means that in some places you would need the help of your hands to make progress in ascending. There could also be some wired ropes for extra safety. Therefore, is suitable for experienced hikers and marked with a triangle.
The very demanding trail
is the one where you need to use your hands for progression. That is via Ferrata route, so you would find a fixed wired rope where otherwise a use climbing rope would be needed. The use of a harness, helmet, and self-belaying system is very well recommended. Of course, that kind of trail is only suitable for very experienced hikers. It is as well marked with a triangle with clicks inside.
A good and experienced guide with a wide knowledge of Slovenian mountains, wildlife, culture, and history is always a recommended company on your adventures, also on easy trails. Guides know what to do in case of an accident, know all the trails very well, and can give a huge surplus to your tour.
>> Find more information on our guided hiking tours in Slovenia here
