Prisojnik (2,547 m) is one of the most iconic peaks in the Julian Alps, and Kopiščarjeva Pot is probably the most popular via ferrata in Slovenia. Some even claim it’s the most difficult.
Video from the ascent:
Is Kopiščarjeva Pot difficult?
Not particularly.
If you already have experience on ferratas such as Hanzova Pot on Mala Mojstrovka, you probably won’t encounter any major surprises here.
That said, this is not a route for complete beginners.
Some sections are highly exposed, and the overall length of the tour means fatigue can become a factor towards the end of the day.
Starting from Vršič Pass
We found ourselves below Prisojnik in July last year.
Due to car trouble, we were delayed by several hours and didn’t leave Vršič until around 1 PM.
Every cloud has a silver lining.
The biggest morning crowds had already passed, and much of the rock was in the shade, making the ascent considerably more pleasant.
From Tičarjev Dom, we headed towards Poštarski Dom and then followed the signs for Kopiščarjeva Pot.
It took us about one hour of easy hiking to reach the start of the ferrata.
Kopiščarjeva pot
From the very beginning, it’s easy to understand why this route is so popular.
The trail quickly leaves ordinary hiking terrain behind and enters a world of limestone walls, protected passages, and exposed ledges.
The fixed protection is installed where it’s needed, and route finding is generally straightforward.
Unlike some Slovenian ferratas that feel almost like sport climbs, Kopiščarjeva Pot retains a distinctly mountaineering character.
This is first and foremost a serious alpine route that occasionally uses cables to make passage easier.
The Chimney
The most famous feature of the entire route is The Chimney (Kamin).
This narrow and steep passage climbs between rock walls using natural holds and fixed protection.
Technically, it isn’t particularly difficult, but it leaves a strong impression.
It’s also the section that appears in most photos and videos from Prisojnik.
If you came for Kopiščarjeva Pot, chances are you came for the Chimney.
Prisojnik Window
Roughly two hours after entering the ferrata, you reach another famous landmark.
Prisojnik Window (Prisojnikovo Okno).
This large natural rock window is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Julian Alps.
Most hikers stop here for a short break, take out their cameras, and try to capture a few photos.
And for good reason.
There aren’t many features like this anywhere in the Alps.
Summit of Prisojnik
From the Window to the summit there are no major technical difficulties.
The terrain remains interesting, but the main challenges are now behind you.
The summit offers outstanding views towards Jalovec, Razor, the Mojstrovka peaks, and much of the Julian Alps.
If you’re lucky with the weather, it’s hard to imagine a better setting for a late-afternoon break.
Descent via Slovenska Pot
For the descent, we chose Slovenska Pot.
It’s a logical circular route that allows you to avoid retracing your steps.
The descent back to Vršič took us around two and a half hours.
Although technically easier than Kopiščarjeva Pot, it still requires concentration, as much of the route follows typical high-alpine terrain found throughout the Julian Alps.
Time Schedule
- Vršič Pass → Start of Kopiščarjeva Pot: approximately 1 hour
- Start of the ferrata → Prisojnik Window: approximately 2 hours
- Window → Summit of Prisojnik: 30–45 minutes
- Summit → Vršič via Slovenska Pot: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Total: 6–7 hours, depending on pace and breaks.
Do You Need Ferrata Equipment?
I would recommend:
- Helmet
- Climbing harness
- Via ferrata set, or two locking carabiners and two slings
- Ferrata gloves (I don’t use them myself, but bringing a pair would probably be the smarter choice)
If you’re looking for a ferrata in Slovenia that offers one of the best effort-to-reward ratios, Kopiščarjeva Pot on Prisojnik ranks very highly on the list.
Leave a comment