Five Hiking Trails in the Upper Mureș Valley

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to reach a mountain peak and see nature from a completely different perspective? Or to discover unique geological formations in Romania? Autumn is the perfect season for that. If you love nature and outdoor adventures, the Upper Mureș Valley is the place where fall comes alive in the most beautiful way. Here are 5 hiking trails we recommend for this autumn:

 

1. Trail to Scaunul Domnului 

This is an easy to medium difficulty trail, perfect for a half-day hike. The climb to 1,381 m takes about 5 hours round-trip. You will walk through dense forests and open clearings, with fallen logs marking the path.

Scaunul Domnului is the most famous landmark in the Mureș Gorge. You can reach it from four starting points: from Deda train station, near the meeting point of Bistra and Donca valleys, from Gălăoaia (the longest route), and the one we are presenting here, starting from Bistra Mureșului, near the Trout Farm. 

From the Trout Farm, follow the main road until the asphalt ends. Then walk about 500 meters to a cabin on the right side of the road. This is the place to leave your car and start the trail, marked with a blue triangle. About halfway up, there is a spring where you can refill your water bottle. The trail is clearly marked all the way to the top.

At the summit, you will find a large clearing and several viewpoints: the Western Rocks and the Eastern Rocks, offering stunning views of the Călimani Mountains. Recently, Mureș County Public Mountain Rescue Service installed an observation point here, giving a panoramic view of the area and making the experience even more special.

 

2. Trail to Zespezel Peak 

The trail to Zespezel Peak is of medium difficulty. It starts easy, but the last part is steeper. The round-trip takes about 4–5 hours and reaches an altitude of 1,512 m. The path goes through spruce forests and wide clearings, where you can take breaks and enjoy the surroundings. 

There are three trails starting from the same area, but we will present the shortest route. You will follow the trail marked with a blue triangle, which changes to a yellow triangle at Poiana Schwartz. 

The most challenging section comes near the end, on a steep path with loose soil and tree roots, where slipping is possible. The rocks just below the peak must be climbed carefully. It’s the hardest part of the trail, but the reward of reaching the top makes it worth it. The good news is that anyone can do this trail, and no special training is needed to reach Zespezel Peak.

 

If you are looking for a less crowded but equally spectacular trail, Tihu Peak (1,799 m) is a great choice. The trail is of medium difficulty and takes about 3–4 hours round-trip, with an elevation gain of 850 m. The route is marked with a blue stripe, which is clearly visible along the entire trail.

The last section of the climb requires more effort, but once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with amazing views of the Călimani Mountains, the surrounding valleys, and the forested ridges.

 

4. Trail to the Molded Cave: Căsoaia lui Ladaș 

For lovers of geological formations, the Molded Cave Căsoaia lui Ladaș is a trail worth exploring. Long ago, volcanic lava flowed over the forest, trapping tree trunks inside the sediments. Over time, water eroded the sediments, releasing the trunks and leaving behind unique cavities – the molded caves.

The trail to the cave is of medium difficulty and can be completed in about 3–4 hours round-trip, making it perfect for a day hike. You will walk through dense forests, cross wide clearings, and have plenty of opportunities to stop for short breaks and take photos. Along the way, you will notice interesting rocks and volcanic formations, making the hike both: enjoyable and educational.

The trail is clearly marked, but it still feels wild and quiet, and it is less crowded than other trails. Near the cave, you will discover Căsoaia lui Ladaș with its unique cavities. These caves are impressive in size, ranging from 40 to 80 meters long, with a diameter of up to 2.4 meters, offering a spectacular setting to explore and photograph.

 

At 2,100 m, Pietrosul Călimani is the highest peak in the Călimani Mountains. The trail starts at the mouth of the Ilva stream, marked with a blue triangle. It is considered a challenging hike and is recommended for experienced hikers or those used to steep mountain climbs. 

The round-trip to the summit takes about 6–8 hours, depending on your pace. The trail passes through spruce and deciduous forests, wide clearings, and rocky slopes, offering a variety of landscapes that make the hike very rewarding for nature lovers. 

The trail is clearly marked, but extra attention is needed on steep sections. The final part of the climb involves crossing rocky areas, which require balance and focus. The reward at the top is worth every step: a 360° panorama of the Călimani, Ceahlău, and Rodna Mountains that gives a true sense of freedom.

 

Whether you are new to hiking or an experienced trekker, the Upper Mureș Valley has trails for everyone. So put on your hiking boots, pack your backpack, and set out to explore these amazing trails. Which one will you climb first?