Vršič - Nord | Ride MTB

Vršič-Pass

The Vršič Pass connects Kranjska Gora with the Soča Valley/Bovec. Due to its historical significance, it offers an interesting and varied trail descent, especially in the north.

Description

The mountain bike tour starts in Kranjska Gora, a well-known winter sports resort that also attracts many outdoor enthusiasts in summer. Located directly at the foot of the Vršič pass road, the tour begins in the town center and initially rides on asphalt past the picturesque Jezero Jasna (Lago di Kranjska Gora). Soon after, the surface changes to a gravel path that runs parallel to the Pišnica river. This section offers a breathtaking mountain panorama.

The route rides back onto the Vršič pass road, which is partially asphalted and consists of cobblestones in the hairpin bends. Passing the Russian memorial chapel, a historic site, the route winds its way up to the top of the pass. Once at the top of the pass, turn off in the direction of Poštarski dom na Vršiču and follow the gravel path with a medium to moderate gradient to the summit hut. The last 50 meters up to the highest point of the tour, the Vršič at 1737 meters above sea level, must be mastered by pushing the bike. From here, there is a spectacular view surrounded by the Triglav National Park.

The descent starts near the summit hut and is varied with difficulty levels S2 and occasionally S3. It leads back to the military road, which is relatively easy to ride at S1 level up to the crossing to Erjavčeva koča. Here you have to carry your bike in places due to erosion in the stream sections. The rest of the downhill repeatedly crosses the ascent route or pass road. The route rides past the Russenkapelle chapel and offers various levels of difficulty between S1 and S3 until you finally end up on the original gravel path near the river. The crossing of the river depends on the erosion and the season and can have varying amounts of water.

The descent ends in Kranjska Gora, where the loop closes. The terrain is typical for this region with roots, loose limestone, karst and gravel. For an optimal touring experience, dry conditions should be aimed for in order to fully enjoy the descent.

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