Pirin National Park: More lakes and grand Vihren peak

So today I continued my crazy hike collection. I was exhausted and knew my body would regret it but it was completely worth it. I loved seeing this part of the park. The massive marble/granite pyramids and the crazy ridges. Of course it's the more popular side of Pirin due easy access so crowds are to be expected.

I did not intend to make this one as long as I did but given the park has hundreds of lakes, I had to include a few on this hike, too. I chose wisely :)

Again, on the way to the Vihren hut, the way is nothing too spectacular. I did not realize that I could have taken the gondola to save 2 hours but now I know :) And so do you. Because otherwise, you hike for 2 hours and then you're met with crowds and cars parked everywhere because people drive up to 2,000 meters to hike 🙄

Anyway, aside from the view of the gorgeous lakes, approaching Vihren from the south is not difficult. It's a bit steep but the way there is easy. Once I started going down via the north side, that's when the fun began. Much more technical, a bit of climbing, chains. This is where these rock giants give your hiking a run for its money. They are rugged, rocky, tough. So they will tire you out. My favorite part (and it's why I took the way I did) was going along Koncheto ridge. It was crazy and really humbling. I had fun but take extra care in these areas. Sometimes the cables are damaged so you have to rely on your secure footing and poles, if you have any.

The last thing I will complain about is going down back to Bansko after Kutelo 1. My maps app told me there was a trail going north following the ridge. But this was a lie. It seems it is an old trail and only found parts of it. Coming down Kutelo 1 was difficult and technical. Then after the pass, staying in the trail was difficult as it appeared and disappeared. After reaching the abandoned ski lift, it was a knee crunching experience all the way down. Not until the tree line started did I find a trail (steep still, mind you) and from there, I was able to make it back ok (though, much later than anticipated given the difficulty of going down). So I suggest go down Kutelo 1 via south and to the hut (or Bansko) through the glacier valley. Interestingly, I saw traces throughout the path of someone having done it going up. Brave soul!

Still, one of my favorite hikes and parks so far! Such good views!