Kopiščarjeva pot na Prisojnik je zaprta 6.8.2014

We inform you that, due to an active rockfall under Prednje prisojnikovo okno, Kopiščarjeva pot, also known as the path through Prednje okno, is completely closed. We also advise against using the link between Hanzova and Kopiščarjeva paths, as the rockfall is active at the lower edge of Prednje okno, making safe passage through it impossible. Even entering Kopiščarjeva pot from the link is dangerous due to the large amount of falling rocks.

Kopiščarjeva pot runs from Poštarski dom or Erjavčeva koča pod Sovno glavo, crosses the north face of Prisojnik, and joins the ridge-marked hiking path through Prednje okno, also called »čez Gladki rob.«



Markers from the mountaineering clubs Jesenice and Kranjska Gora will inspect the path in collaboration with nearby GRS stations and take appropriate action in the given situation. Any information on the opening, closure or restoration of Kopiščarjeva pot will be continuously published on the websites of the Alpine Association of Slovenia.



The rockfall is the result of melting snow and ice, of which there is still plenty in the north face of Prisojnik. Snow and ice act as a kind of binder for the material. As these bonds melt, the less bound parts of the wall (rocks, boulders...) break off. The answer to why all this rock material did not fall off earlier, e.g. last year, is that water expands when it freezes, consequently widening cracks in the rock face. In recent years, with global warming becoming more evident, winters also see alternations between cold and warmer periods. Consequently, ice in cracks between rocks melts and refreezes, further weakening the rock.

Of course, this is not the only reason for falling rocks. Larger rockfalls mostly result from the process described above, but there are many other reasons. Various types of erosion can be mentioned: biological, chemical, water, wind... Most often, however, the danger to mountain visitors comes from our fellow hikers moving on higher sections of the paths. Do not forget mountain animals either - chamois, ibex and even grazing livestock can be a »source« of falling rocks.



Therefore, be careful under the walls, do not leave the helmet at home or in the backpack, give it a »view« too and put it on your head in time.



Source: PZS