Climbing ladders in the Slovak Paradise National Park during winter. (source: npslovenskyraj.sk)
After extensive reconstruction and replacement of climbing ladders, the Piecky Gorge in the Slovenský Raj (Slovak Paradise) park is open again. The renovation was conducted by the gorge's administrator, the municipality of Hrabušice (Spišská Nová Ves district), the SITA newswire reported.
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Icy beauty
The Slovak Paradise National Park Administration stated that visitors can enjoy its icy beauty in winter. The large waterfall, next to which is one of the longest ladders in the Slovak Paradise park, will welcome ice climbers after it freezes.
According to the national park's visitor regulations, ice climbing is permitted on this icefall.
The Piecky Gorge is accessible all year round and is one of the quieter attractions in the park. It is 3.3 kilometres long and involves a climb of approximately 300 metres. Walkers should expect to take about two hours to cross it. The gorge is one of the five that are managed by Hrabušice. The municipality also takes care of several kilometres of hiking trails and cycle paths.
Little direct sunlight in winter
The national park administration warns tourists that when planning hikes and trips, they should bear in mind that at this time of year it gets dark at around 16:00.
"It is necessary to plan your trip so that you have enough time to return while it is still light. The sun only shines exceptionally in the gorges [in December], which is why there is real winter weather there, which includes cold and ice, which also covers the technical facilities and trails. Please adapt your equipment accordingly," the national park advises on its website, as quoted by SITA.
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