On August 15 and 16, KUBRAT YOUTH took part in a mountain hike in the Pirin Mountains.

A total of 18 people joined the hike—friends and acquaintances, some of whom met for the first time during the trip, all united by an interest in the mountains and an active lifestyle.

The Beginning: From Bezbog to Popovo Lake

Our hike began at Bezbog Hut, which we reached by taking the chairlift from Dobrinishte. From there, we gradually made our way towards Popovo Lake. This part of the route was relatively calm and gave us the opportunity to enjoy Pirin without rushing.

Along the way, we passed by some of the beautiful Pirin lakes. When we reached Popovo Lake, some members of the group took the opportunity to rest, enjoy the view, and recharge their energy.

But the next challenge—Dzhangal Peak—was waiting for us.

Towards the Summit

Our initial plan was to climb Dzhangal Peak the following day, but along the way we decided to change our plans. As a result, Saturday became a little longer and more challenging.

The ascent to the summit naturally split the group into several smaller groups—some people moved faster, while others preferred a slower pace and more frequent breaks. This is completely normal in a group made up of people with different levels of experience and fitness.

The most important thing was that everyone made it to the summit. For some, the climb was a serious challenge; for others, it was easier. But the sense of satisfaction after reaching the top was shared by all.

Some of us even managed to find the cave beneath Dzhangal—one of those hidden spots that make the mountains even more fascinating.

An Evening by Tevno Lake

After the climb, we continued towards the Tevno Lake Shelter, where we would spend the night.

As we had warned everyone in advance, the evening at that altitude was cold. That was precisely why having the right equipment proved to be extremely important. Some people slept in a sleeping bag for the first time—and, as with many other things, there is no way to know whether you will like it until you try it.

We spent the evening together, sharing conversations, laughter, and stories.

The Next Day—Without Rushing

By Sunday, there was no need to chase any more summits. After the tiring day before, we decided simply to enjoy the mountains and gradually make our way back to the chairlift.

Some people set off earlier, while others chose to sleep in and enjoy the morning.

In the end, we all returned home tired but happy—with plenty of photos, new friendships, and one more story to tell.

Why Do We Keep Going Back?

Because the mountains are about much more than kilometres, elevation gain, and summits reached.

They encourage us to stay active, step outside our comfort zones, and gradually improve our physical fitness. They teach us patience, perseverance, and responsibility. Sometimes, they show us that we are capable of much more than we thought.

But most of all, the mountains give us the opportunity to get to know and love nature even more—the nature that is a part of us and that we all have a responsibility to protect.

In everyday life, we are often in a hurry, constantly checking the clock and our phones. In the mountains, time begins to be measured differently—with sunrises, summits, lakes, conversations, and steps.

And that is exactly why we keep coming back.

Not only for the views.

Not only for the summits.

But for the feeling that we are part of something real.

Thank you to everyone who was part of this experience. And to those who have not joined us yet—the mountains are still there. All that remains is to take the first step.

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