Elenin peak

Elenin Peak is one of the most scenic and breathtaking summits in the Northwestern part of the Rila Mountains. It features a predominantly rocky massif consisting of several high points, with the northernmost crag standing as the official summit. The slopes of the mountain are exceptionally steep and rugged. Its southern walls drop off almost vertically into a deep abyss facing the valley of the Manastirska River and the historic Rila Monastery. To the east of the summit stretches a legendary, sharp rocky ridge known among mountaineers as Petlite (The Roosters). Experienced, fit, and properly equipped hikers can use this ridge to traverse toward the neighboring peak of Mount Orlovetz. The western slopes of Elenin Peak descend steeply into the Ochova River basin, while its northern face overlooks the beautiful alpine cirque of the Elenini Lakes. In some older geographical sources, the southern crag (rising to 2653 meters) is marked as the main peak. This is because it serves as a famous rock-climbing destination with numerous alpine routes running up its vertical face, making it widely known among climbers as Elenin Peak. Important Safety and Avalanche Information This high-mountain hiking route is strictly suitable for the summer season. It is crucial to note that during winter and whenever snow cover is present, the entire Malovitsa River valley becomes highly avalanche-prone. Under winter conditions, attempting this trail is extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited. The trek requires good physical stamina and sturdy hiking boots with excellent traction, as the steep, rocky sections become very slippery and hazardous during wet weather. Key Trail Parameters: - Starting Point: Central Mountain School (CPS) Malovitsa. - Total Distance: 6.2 km. - Elevation Gain: 961 meters. - Duration: Approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes one way. - Detailed Step-by-Step Hiking Route Description Stage 1: From CPS Malovitsa to Malovitsa Hut The trek begins at Mecha Polyana (Bear Meadow) in front of CPS Malovitsa, the main transportation and hiking hub for this region of Rila. Head south along the main trail, entering the territory of Rila National Park shortly after. Follow the blue tourist trail markings along the right bank of the Malovitsa River, gradually gaining elevation. In just under 2 km (about 35 minutes), cross the river via a stone bridge, right next to a natural drinking fountain. From this point, continue along the left bank for another 15 minutes to reach Malovitsa Hut. The entire walk from the start to the hut takes less than an hour. Stage 2: Through the First and Second Terraces From the mountain hut, continue south, entering a dwarf scrub pine zone along a well-cleared path. Here, the red trail markings join the blue route, which you will follow further up toward the ridge. After about 10 minutes, cross the river again by stepping over exposed rocks, which requires caution during high-water periods. The path then starts climbing more steeply, leading up to a flat, grassy meadow known as the First Terrace (Parva Terasa). After a short flat walk, the trail climbs again and crosses the Malovitsa River once more to reach the Second Terrace (Vtora Terasa), marked by a large rock face dedicated to fallen climbers. This stage from the hut takes about 50 minutes. Stage 3: From the Second Terrace to Elenino Lake At the Second Terrace, the blue trail markings split to the left towards the BAK shelter. The route to Elenin Peak keeps heading straight south, tracking upstream against the river current. After about 5 minutes, cross one of the mountain tributaries of the Malovitsa River and immediately begin a steep, rocky zigzag climb to the right. Following the narrow path closely for about 50 minutes will bring you to the educational signpost at the shores of Elenino Lake, the largest and deepest lake in the cirque. Stage 4: Final Ascent via the Malovitsa Saddle From the lake, the final and steepest part of the climb begins. The trail heads south initially before turning southwest, zigzagging up the rocky slope. After about 35 minutes of tough climbing, you will emerge onto the main ridge saddle between Elenin Peak and Mount Malovitsa, marked by a large stone cairn and a winter trail pole. At the ridge saddle, the path branching to the right leads toward the peaks of Golyam and Malak Mermer, as well as the main summit of Mount Malovitsa. To reach Elenin Peak, turn left onto a narrow path that bypasses a minor, unnamed high point from the west. Immediately after, you will reach a shallow, grassy saddle from which the final short climb begins. The summit of Elenin Peak is reached within a few minutes, marked by a small stone cairn at the highest point.