Chelopeshka Baba (1,721 m), also called Chelopechka Baba, is a peak on the main ridge of the Etropole mountain, north-west of Murgana hut; reference works give 1,722 m.
The Etropole mountain is the easternmost part of the Western Balkan, between the Botevgrad and Zlatitsa passes. Its crest is sharp and comb-like, covered in shrubs and grass; the northern slopes carry beech forest, while the southern ones, towards Chelopech and the Zlatitsa–Pirdop basin, are steep and largely bare. About 1.2 km west-north-west along the ridge is Mirkovska Baba.
The peak lies on the ridge trek from Kashana hut on the Zlatitsa pass to Mara Gidia (1,790 m), the highest point of the mountain. The route crosses Murgana (1,639 m), Chelopeshka Baba, Mirkovska Baba and Mara Gidia in turn, all on open ridge. Kashana and Murgana huts are on the European E3 Kom – Emine route, about 1 hour apart.
Kashana hut is on the Kashana saddle, the highest point of the Zlatitsa pass. An asphalt road leads to Murgana hut (1,385 m), and on foot it is about 2 hours from the village of Chelopech.
Sofia region
1.2 km away
Sofia region
3.9 km away
Sofia region
7.4 km away
Sofia region
8.3 km away
Chelopeshka Baba is located in Sofia Province, Bulgaria.
Chelopeshka Baba is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Late spring through early autumn (May–September) is best for Chelopeshka Baba, when trails are clear of snow and weather is most stable. Higher peaks may hold snow into June and see fresh snow as early as October. Winter visits are for experienced mountaineers with proper gear.
Chelopeshka Baba reaches an elevation of 1,721 metres above sea level.
Hiking boots, layered clothing, water (1.5–2 L per person), sun protection, and a windproof jacket — mountain weather changes quickly. For longer routes also bring a map (paper or offline), a head torch, and emergency rations. Tell someone your planned route and expected return time.
