Autumn is by far the best time to visit the mountains in Slovenia. Larches glow in their golden beauty while all the summer crowds are long gone. At that time of year, sunrises get even more colorful, and you don't need an alarm clock set for 2 AM to catch them on the mountain peaks. Below, you'll find a list of five trail run routes we run on repeat during autumn.
1. Ljubelj - Vrtača
That's one of the paths we run the most often. It's to reach the trailhead, and the top part already offers a pristine high-mountain experience. You'll run among the larches that are turning from green to gold, which makes the sunrise even more spectacular while the Julian Alps glow in scarlet. It feels like you could touch Bled lake just by leaning slightly forward. If you're lucky, you might encounter chamois. When you sit down next to the snow axe and share your chocolate bar with a jackdaw, you can only call it a "perfect day".
2. Planina Blato - Mala Tičarica - Koča pri Triglavskih jezerih
The route from Planina Blato towards the Triglav lakes valley was made for trail running. Ascents, descents, and long turns in the most beautiful mountain scenery. Planina Dedno polje is really an eye-catcher. You'll run by beautiful shepherds' cottages. While you're running among mountain pines, you might encounter black grouse. From Mala Tičarica you'll have a great view towards Koča pri Triglavskih jezerih that's standing amongst the larches. To make it even more exciting, you'll need to use a short cable when passing Štapce. You might encounter chamois observing your every step.
3. Kalški greben
Kalški greben is always a great choice for trail running. With just rough-enough surface and not too hard climbs, it's a really great mountain-running route. Not to mention one of the nicest views of the highest peaks in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. It feels like you could touch Skuta with the tips of your fingers or simply jump to Grintavec. When you're passing Planina Dolga Njiva on return, it's hard to imagine that you're so close to Ljubljana.
4. Razdrto - Vojkova koča na Nanosu (roundtrip)
In the late autumn, when the highest peaks of Slovenija already have some snow, Nanos becomes a very attractive choice. Difficult enough to give you this feeling of high mountains and just close enough to the sea to avoid early snow. On the way up, you'll need to use your arms here and there to pull yourself upwards. On the way down, you'll be able to run more or less the whole time. When the sky and air are clear, you'll see all the way down to the Adriatic Sea. And yes, we've encountered chamois here as well.
5. Lovrenška jezera (krožna)
Pohorje is a trail running paradise. Wild forests, plenty of routes, and beautiful lakes. There's no doubt that Lovrenc Lakes are the most scenic. Autumn colors make this path even more spectacular. Going up, going down - turning left, turning right ... We recommend that you forget your personal records when on this route. Just embrace the beauty of the surrounding nature.
One for the road
Regardless of which route you choose, make sure to wear suitable clothing and running shoes. It might be that you'll be hot in the valley when it's 20°, but mountains can already be much colder in this part of the year. In the early mornings, you might experience temperatures around 0°. Don't forget to bring enough to drink and eat, so you'll stay hydrated and full of energy.
Maybe we'll meet somewhere!
