Slovenia’s mountains are wonderful. We would be pleased if you enjoyed them and made unforgettable memories and experiences to take home with you. It’s mostly your responsibility to make sure that everything goes as it should: be appropriately prepared, equipped and informed when you visit our mountains.

Weather is important!

The weather is very changeable and unpredictable in the mountains. Very low temperatures and temperature changes, sudden turns for the worse, and snow are not unusual in the mountains, even in summer.

So, before your tour, make sure to carefully follow the weather forecast, consider the information provided, and follow all of the warnings regarding the conditions in the mountains. If the forecast is bad, we recommend you stay in the valley. If there is an avalanche risk, take the warning seriously. The same goes for storms, which you should avoid due to the risk of lightning strikes.

If the weather is nice and the conditions are good, your mountain destination will also be more easily accessible. It’s good to head to the mountains in the early morning hours, as rain and storms usually come in the afternoon.

Select the right level of difficulty and distance!

A common cause of accidents and mountain rescues is when people overestimate their abilities. If you’re not a frequent visitor to the mountains and you don’t have much experience, don’t go to Mt Triglav or any of the other really tall peaks on a whim. There are a lot of wonderful, but smaller mountains that you can hike up. Pick a destination that is appropriate for your mental and physical abilities, and make sure to adjust the hike to your weakest hiker. You should be aware that, once you reach the summit, you’re only half way there, and that your final destination is a successful descent into the valley.

Plan your hike! Use a printed or digital map with marked paths and their descriptions. Inform your family and friends in the valley of your plans. Check whether mountain cabins are open. Don’t use hiking trails that have been closed or shortcuts. It’s not worth it.

Appropriate equipment? Sandals are strictly forbidden.

Appropriate and comfortable footwear is essential in addition to suitable preparation. In the mountains, this means that you have to wear footwear with good ankle support and non-slip stiff soles, while if you’re hiking in the hills or even at lower elevations, light hiking boots or durable athletic footwear with non-slip soles are also appropriate.

Always make sure to bring extra clothing, which will protect you if it rains or snows: a hat, gloves, an anorak, and warm clothing are mandatory. We also recommend a first aid kit, a headlamp, matches, a candle, adhesive tape, aluminium foil, a mobile phone, or suitable sun protection. In addition to a snack and a sufficient amount of water, don’t forget your golden reserve: high-energy bars, drinks, and dried fruit are very welcome – they don’t take up much room, but fill you up with energy.

If you go to the mountains often, you’ll be used to using a helmet and a self-protection set. If you’re going for the first time, learn how to properly use them and learn other necessary skills while you’re still in the valley.

Hiking with children

It’s very important for children to explore the wonderful mountain world in a fun and diverse way. Long hikes that require a lot of concentration and are physically taxing are not suitable for children. This is why it’s very important which destination you choose. In trail sections where there is a risk of falling, one experienced adult should keep an eye on each child. Alternatively, you can choose a less steep and less demanding peak and one of the many themed trails found all over Slovenia.

Hiking with a guide

You can also ensure a greater level of safety by hiring a mountain guide. Guides know how to choose a suitable pace and method of walking, they ensure the safety and well-being of hikers, and are responsible for the entire hike, from the starting point to the destination.

We particularly recommend that a hiking or mountain guide be hired by anyone who

• wishes to visit Slovenia’s mountains for the first time,
• would like to have a go at a more difficult tour than what they have been used to,
• has only gone to the mountains in the summer, but is keen on hiking or ski touring in the winter,
• doesn’t dare to go to the mountains alone or with friends,
• would like to acquire the knowledge and experience that will be shared with them on the path by the guide.

Find more information on the website of the Slovenian Mountain Guide Association: http://zgvs.si/en/