New 187km Pohorje–Kozjak hiking trail opens in Slovenia

Northeastern Slovenia's Pohorje and Kozjak mountain ranges are now connected by a new long-distance hiking trail, the Pohorje–Kozjak Trail. Officially opening in Maribor, the 187-kilometer route has been recognized by the BBC as one of the most desirable trails.

The trail is designed for a 11- to 15-day trek, broken down into 20 stages. It winds through forests and across peaks, including Pohorje's highest point, Črni Vrh, and Kozjak's highest point, Košenjak. Hikers will conquer approximately 8,000 meters of elevation gain throughout the journey.

Ultramarathoner Robert Kereži plans to test the trail's limits by attempting to run the entire distance in a single push, estimating a completion time of around 34 hours. The trail launch also coincides with the traditional Day of Slovenian Hikers, with some participants embarking on a shorter hike towards Areh.

Developed by the Regional Development Agency Podravje - Maribor, the trail builds on previous efforts to develop cycling routes and year-round recreational areas. Karmen Razlag from the agency highlighted the goal of connecting the two similar yet distinct mountain ranges. The trail utilizes existing paths, enhanced with over 1,500 markers and signs by local hiking clubs, leading hikers past more than 100 natural and cultural landmarks.

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Nato je prišlo na vrsto pohodništvo in tako smo prišli do zamisli o daljinski pohodni poti, s katerima bi povezali pogorji, ki sta si po svoje podobni, hkrati pa ima vsako svojo identiteto.