funny feelings

I want to start by saying that this was my first trip to the mountains in my life. I'm talking about real hikes, with a backpack and for several days. Of course, I had a rough idea of ​​what to expect, but only in theory. And the theory, as is usually the case, is quite far from how things actually happen.

The route was not chosen by chance. For me, the moment of overcoming myself and conquering the peak was important. And here there are two of them and both are complex in their own way (the pros are probably laughing good-naturedly now).

I saw that there was another six-day hike, but I understood that it might be too difficult for the first time. As it turned out later, I made the right choice. Therefore, my advice to beginners: if you, like me, are a polite “you” with sports and have no experience at all, choose a three-day hike, you will still have time to conquer six peaks.

In general, even if you have no experience at all, don’t be afraid and definitely decide to go on a hike. The mountains are worth it. I started this adventure myself, without equipment and without really knowing my capabilities, not knowing my endurance. As a result, I am happy that I decided. All the problems turned out to be not problems at all: I immediately took the equipment from outdoorukraine at rental, the company on the hike was wonderful (we had a large group, 20 people and everyone was wonderful). And strength and endurance were found already on the climbs.

Our group was both lucky and unlucky with the weather. During the days of the hike it never rained, the sky was clear - not a single cloud. One minus - all this in 35-degree heat and in the scorching sun. Many people got burned while conquering Petros on the second day, including me. But, to be honest, everyone noticed this only in the evening. In the mountains, in general, everyday trifles recede into the background, the head is cleared of bad thoughts, and the heart is cleared of worries. This hike showed me that there is a place where you can feel absolutely calm and free - and this is the Carpathians.

On the first day, our group climbed to the parking lot at the foot of Petros. It was a tough climb, just like the first day. I was lagging behind and my thoughts were not particularly cheerful. But the support of everyone who trailed behind me and the smiles of the rest of the group members who were waiting for us at the rest stops were very encouraging and added excitement. And this was in the first few hours, when we all barely knew each other.

I would like to say a huge thank you to our instructors Andrey Detsu and Pasha, and our entire group. Despite the fact that we were only on the hike for three days, I was delighted with all of you and already on the train I began to miss you. Thank you all so much!

Considering that we covered a larger portion than planned on the first day, our group had the opportunity to spend more time around the fire in the evening and sleep longer in the morning. The food we prepared and the herbal tea that Andrei immediately collected nearby were simply amazing. I was lucky to see the sunrise on the morning of the second day, it was just an incredible sight. I highly recommend waking up at five o’clock, if you have the energy, and taking a look.

Despite the fact that I can call all the climbs difficult (for myself), they are surmountable. Don't let your lack of experience or the impressive heights of the peaks scare you. Already there, in the Carpathians, at the foot of the mountain, in the middle of the path, and then at the top, everything seems doable. There is an awareness that yes, it is hard now, but there is still a little time left. There is no desire to turn around and leave. Only the excitement and joy of victory when the peak has already been conquered.

And one more thing. Yes, there are excursion tours to Hoverla in which you can conquer it in one day. To be honest, this was also my original plan and I’m very, just incredibly glad that I changed my mind and went on a real hike with our group. We climbed Hoverla from the other side, and the route was not the one taken by excursions. The climb is already a challenge, so it is much easier when there is relatively free space around, and not crowds of people (and on Hoverla there are just crowds of them).

And also, when you go down the hiking trail to the base in Zaroslyak, and people are coming towards you who are just about to conquer the peak, it gives rise to quite a funny feeling. Everyone immediately runs up with questions like “How long will it take?”, “Isn’t it hard?”... This brings a sincere smile. But the funniest thing happens when the descent is almost finished and almost at the foot someone slowly approaches and asks: “Well, tell me, it’s already halfway to the top, right?”

The time spent on the hike, on the one hand, was infinitely short, but on the other hand, it was like a separate life, like an entire eternity. Time really moves differently in the Carpathians, which allows you to escape from your problems and take a break from the hustle and bustle. And also to meet wonderful people and go on adventures.

Thanks again to outdoorukraine for this opportunity in general, and specifically to my group and instructors for a very fun, amazing and unforgettable three days in the Carpathians.