| Loerst16. 07. 2023 20:18:43 |
On Saturday I did a loop Planina Zapleč – Krnčica – Srednji vrh – Griva – Skutnik – Lopatnik – Planina Zapleč
The road to Planina Zapleč/Zaprikaj is in pretty bad condition. Still possible to drive even with a regular car with a good dose of caution without undercarriage damage, but maybe not, depends on the driver. I drove those last few km of gravel almost 15 min. Owners of slightly higher cars have obvious advantage here.
As I walk the mule track towards Krnčica and quickly gain height, I think maybe it wasn't the most thoughtful decision to go hiking the southern slopes in Primorska in July. Though early, it's already hot in the morning. Luckily took 5l water, should be enough, none in between.
Just below saddle turn right. Marked as normal path on map, but actually wide comfortable mule track, red lines at every bend, straight to summit. Before that path through short tunnel, noticeably cooler temp, perfect for short break and cooling. Highest tunnel in Slovenia?
From Krnčica summit (2143 m) to Srednji vrh (2131 m) similar path, great views, well marked, suitable for regular hikers. Ridge very flat, quick section.
After Srednji vrh turn other side to Griva path. This one's mostly just on map, in reality km of defense remains, walls, paths, shelters... sometimes obvious where to go, sometimes... less. Thanks predecessors for cairns, very helpful! Added stone to each. Missed path twice, wandered bit, not hard but time-consuming on broken terrain. Maybe not best for poor visibility, full of dolines and scree. Snow in most dolines, some accessible holes, take off shirt lie on it. Aaahh nice.  Cooling lasts couple mins after, but sun wins blazing full. Bury one water bottle in snow, mark on map, retrieve later.
Griva (1995 m) technically not peak, end of side ridge, but great views all around. Whole Krn group full war metal, but Griva tons everywhere, could open scrapyard.
At top turn back, return path seems obvious highway, all clear, see passages ahead, could walk eyes closed hands in pockets, where looking before... Eh funny, not first time. Pick ice cold bottle (10/10) head to Skutnik, step cm aside nice snake. Both great reflexes, he to hole under rock. Heart pounding quarter hour later, dare not sit anywhere.
To Skutnik (2072 m) maybe too direct up, grabbed rock bit at two spots, still barely bad I-. Possibly not if proper route. Heat got me, head to saddle then to Lopatnik (2011 m). Thinking – easiest 2000er here? Literal grassy mule track parking to summit... Me long descent and longer drive home...
Sorry long post, today writer inspired.
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