A journey along the backbone of the Balkans, where winter paints its boldest landscapes.

Imagine dawn in the Rila Mountains — that quiet, white timelessness where the snow absorbs your footsteps and the air is so crisp it hums. Ahead of you lies one of the most iconic winter mountaineering routes in Bulgaria: the Musala – Sawtooth Traverse, a daring alpine line connecting the highest summit of the Balkans with one of the most panoramic ridges in Rila.
This is an adventure for those seeking more than a hike — for those ready to step into true alpine terrain and feel the mountain accept them into its winter kingdom.

Start Point: Yastrebets Hut – Your First Touch with Altitude

The journey begins at Yastrebets Hut, reached via the gondola from Borovets. Here winter often greets you with sparkling snowfields and a silence that promises a day filled with challenge and beauty. With every step you ascend closer to the white amphitheaters of the Musala Cirques.

Frozen Lakes — Silver Mirrors of the Mountain

The route passes the Lower Musala Lake, whose winter surface becomes a frozen mirror. Next comes Karakashevo Lake, nestled deep inside a snow-covered cirque. And then, the true gem: the Ice Lake — the highest of all the Musala Lakes. In winter it resembles a gateway to another world, a stark white plateau resting beneath the steep northern walls of the peak.
This is where you truly enter the alpine zone of Rila.

Musala — The Dome of Bulgaria

The ascent to Mount Musala (2925 m) feels like climbing into the edge of the winter sky. Each meter of elevation opens vast horizons toward the mountain ranges of Bulgaria — Vitosha, Pirin, Sredna Gora, the Rhodopes.
At the summit, the wind carries a sense of freedom that defies description. You stand on the highest point of the Balkans, and beneath you unfolds the boldest element of the route: the Sawtooth Ridge.

The Sawtooth Ridge — A Panoramic Alpine Traverse for True Enthusiasts

The traverse across the “Sawteeth” is a high-exposure ridge walk that seems to slice through the sky. It is both beautiful and imposing — sharp snowy spires, dramatic drops toward the Musala valleys, and the feeling of moving along a line between the human world and the realm of clouds.
Winter sculpts this ridge into steep slopes, cornices, and unique snow formations, turning every meter into pure mountaineering delight.

The traverse offers an excellent opportunity to advance your alpine skills: movement on exposed ridges, secure footwork with crampons, and proper use of winter mountaineering equipment.

Return to the Ice Lake — Descent into the White Amphitheater

After completing the ridge, the route reconnects with the Ice Lake, which glows like a snowy chandelier in the afternoon light. From here, the descent follows the familiar trail back to Yastrebets Hut, and the gondola brings us down to the valley — fueled by adrenaline and unforgettable views.

Why This Route Is Special

• The highest winter traverse in Bulgaria.
• Exceptional alpine terrain with panoramic views found in very few places on the Balkans.
• Ideal for testing and improving winter mountaineering skills — technique, confidence, and mountain awareness merge at every step.
• Walking the Sawtooth Ridge with Musala behind you is not just a memory — it becomes an inner summit.

This traverse is not merely a winter hike. It is an encounter with the highest point of the Balkans, the raw energy of Rila, and your own personal limits.
If you seek challenge, beauty, and a true alpine experience — this is your route.

PROGRAM

Day 1:

• Arrival at Yastrebets Hut and overnight stay.
Note: Each participant is responsible for choosing their way to reach the hut (on foot, ski touring, or via Yastrebets Gondola) and for reserving their own accommodation.

Day 2:

• Departure at 05:00 from the hut for the start of the alpine itinerary.

Important:

• In case of deteriorating weather conditions or any force majeure circumstances, the guide may return the group or alter the route to ensure safety.

REQUIRED PERSONAL EQUIPMENT

• Warm mid-layer — fleece or technical insulation
• Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
• Stiff-soled winter mountaineering boots
• Backpack suitable for all listed gear
• Hat — 2 pcs (for warm and cold conditions)
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Food and water for a long, strenuous alpine day
• Mobile phone with full battery
• Headlamp with new/charged batteries
• Climbing helmet
• Crampons for winter mountaineering
• Ice axe
• Climbing harness
• Avalanche safety kit (transceiver, shovel, probe)

PRICE

Individual price: 900 BGN / 460 EUR
For two participants: 600 BGN (306 EUR) per person

Note:
• For maximum safety, one guide leads a maximum of two participants.

Price Includes:

• Certified mountain guide
• Group technical equipment

Price Does Not Include:

• Insurance
• Logistic expenses (gondola tickets, accommodation, food, drinks, personal expenses)
• Personal equipment
Missing gear may be rented upon request.

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum age: 18+
• No health issues incompatible with high-altitude winter activity
• Mandatory mountain / extreme sports insurance for the program days
• Solid hiking and basic mountaineering skills
• Self-organization of transport and accommodation
• Personal first-aid kit recommended