Outdoor & Trails · Zărnești

Trail: Cabana Gura Râului – La Table – Moieciu de Jos (red cross)

Long hike on the red cross: from Cabana Gura Râului, through the Zărnești Gorges and La Table, to Moieciu de Jos. 21.4 km.

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Foto: Xulescu g / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

At a glance

Distance from MAX 15 km Travel time 9–9,5 h Time to spend 9–9.5 h Difficulty medium/difficult Town Zărnești

The route

Length ≈ 21.5 km Total ascent ≈ 890 m Total descent ≈ 870 m Lowest – highest point ≈ 770–1440 m Elevation profile startfinish

Values marked ≈ are calculated by MAX from the OpenStreetMap route and the EU-DEM terrain model (25 m): approximate, they may differ from the ground by tens of metres.

Route: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL)

Download GPXFile for navigation apps (Komoot, Strava, Garmin, OsmAnd), from the OpenStreetMap route. On the ground, follow the waymarks and check the weather; mountain rescue: 0SALVAMONT / 112.

About the place

In short (checked 15 October 2026)

Waymark: red cross (code 02MN12). Distance: 21.4 km (OSM). Elevation: not published in P2; Munții Noștri gives 780 m of ascent and 730 m of descent. Duration: not published in P2; Munții Noștri: 9–9.5 h (10–11 h on the Romanian page). Difficulty: medium/difficult (Munții Noștri).

Where it goes

The route leaves Cabana Gura Râului (750 m), near Zărnești, passes Fântâna lui Botorog and climbs through the Zărnești Gorges, then crosses Cheile Pisicii (the Cat Gorge) and reaches La Table. From there it goes over Șaua Joaca (1,445 m), descends to Casa Folea (1,190 m) and continues on a high path towards the village of Peștera, down to Moieciu de Jos. Munții Noștri recommends it to people used to long hikes and warns that waymarks are sparse in Cheile Pisicii and between Casa Folea and Moieciu de Jos.

Safety

Winter conditions, water sources, shelters and bear risk are not published in our sources. On the sparsely marked sections you need a map or the track loaded on your phone. The route crosses Piatra Craiului National Park. The visitor ticket costs 10 lei per person and is valid for 7 days; children under 14 go free (pcrai.ro/bilete, 2026 prices, read on 7 October 2026). Park rules and any restrictions are on pcrai.ro. In an emergency call 112 or 0SALVAMONT (0725 826 668). Salvamont Zărnești, for information: 0733 008 323.

Getting to the start

From MAX International in Râșnov, drive to Zărnești and on towards Cabana Gura Râului. Munții Noștri suggests leaving the car at Fântâna lui Botorog, past Cabana Gura Râului. The route ends in Moieciu de Jos, far from the start, so plan in advance how you will get back. You can see the distance and driving time with the navigation buttons on this page.

Before you set out

Brown bear country. Keep food out of sight, never feed the animals and do not approach them.
Stay on marked trails and carry proper mountain gear.
Check the forecast before you leave; the weather changes fast at altitude.

Emergencies: 112
Mountain rescue (Salvamont), national dispatch: 0725 826 668

Frequently asked questions

What is the MAX International Local Guide?

A guide to attractions, trails and events in the Râșnov–Brașov–Bran area, designed as an information point for MAX International guests. Each attraction shows the distance from MAX, a map and access details.

How far are the attractions from MAX International?

It varies: some attractions are right in Râșnov (Râșnov Citadel, Valea Cetății Cave), others are further away, in the Prahova Valley (Bușteni, Sinaia). The distance and driving time from MAX are on each attraction's page, calculated by road.

Is the guide's information verified?

Yes. Every published attraction has a confirmed official source and map. Opening hours and prices can change seasonally, so please check the official link before your visit.

Can I ask for recommendations at the MAX International reception?

Yes. The MAX International reception and concierge can help with recommendations, transfers and bookings, based on the season and your preferences.

How do I reach the attractions without a car?

The MAX reception can help with a private transfer or transport information. Nearby attractions (Râșnov Citadel, Râșnov town centre) are easily reachable on foot.

What is the best time to visit the area?

The area is attractive year-round: summer for trails and caves, winter for slopes and cable cars. Each attraction indicates its recommended season.

Can I book accommodation near these attractions?

Yes — MAX International Râșnov is a central base for exploring the area. See the accommodation section or message us on WhatsApp for availability.

Getting there

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Opening hours and prices are confirmed by the site’s management, not by MAX.

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Zărnești

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At the foot of the narrowest limestone ridge in the Carpathians, Zărnești is the town where the trails towards Piatra Craiului begin. Stone gorges, a unique bear sanctuary and centuries of history, a short distance from Râșnov.

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