Outdoor & Trails · Zărnești

Trail: Zărnești – Brâna Caprelor – Zărnești (blue stripe)

Blue stripe loop from Zărnești over Brâna Caprelor, in Piatra Craiului: 20.5 km, 12 h 45 min, with a cabled section closed in winter.

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Foto: Amorphisman / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

At a glance

Distance from MAX 14 km Travel time 12 h 45 min Time to spend 12 h 45 min Difficulty medium, according to the source Town Zărnești

About the place

In short (checked 15 October 2026)

Waymark: blue stripe (code 02MN10). Distance: 20.5 km, as a loop. Elevation: 1,280 m of ascent and 1,320 m of descent (the source's figures, although the route is a loop). Duration: 12 h 45 min; the source text also mentions over 15 h. Difficulty: medium, according to the source. Warning: the route has a climbing section up to the ridge, with crumbly scree and gullies and ledges fitted with cables; this section is closed in winter. It is a full day's outing or longer.

Where it goes

It is a loop that starts and ends in Zărnești (722 m), climbs into Piatra Craiului along Brâna Caprelor (the Goats' Ledge) and comes back down to town, according to Munții Noștri and OSM. On the way the sources mention two stone crosses, the Colțul Chiliilor meadow, the La Găvan spring, Refugiul Diana, Cabana Curmătura, Cabana Gura Râului and Fântâna lui Botorog; the exact order of these landmarks is not published in our sources, so follow the route on the Munții Noștri or Waymarked Trails map before you set off.

Safety

In winter the climbing section up to the ridge is closed because of crumbly scree and gullies and ledges fitted with cables; the rest of the route is only partly passable. Water: a spring near the second stone cross, one before the Colțul Chiliilor meadow, the La Găvan spring and Fântâna lui Botorog. Shelters and huts mentioned: Refugiul Diana, Cabana Curmătura and Cabana Gura Râului; the status of Cabana Gura Râului is not confirmed in our sources. At Cabana Curmătura, the Brașov Tourism page (note indexed on 22 August 2026) lists accommodation as temporarily closed, with the restaurant and camping available; call the hut before you go (0745 454 184). Bear risk is not published in our sources. The route lies in Piatra Craiului National Park, which has a visitor ticket; check the price and the visiting rules on pcrai.ro/bilete before you go. In an emergency call 112 or 0SALVAMONT (0725 826 668), the national Salvamont number. For information, P2 gives Salvamont Zărnești as 0733 008 323; we could not find this number confirmed on an official page on 15 October 2026.

Getting to the start

From MAX International in Râșnov, drive to Zărnești, where the loop starts and ends. The exact starting point in town is not described in our sources; check it on the map. Parking at the start is not published in our sources. 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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