Cherni Vrah marks the beginning of organized tourism in Bulgaria, when, on August 27, 1895, Aleko Konstantinov organized the first mass ascent of Cherni Vrah with over 300 people, including Ivan Vazov.
It is said that the name “Cherni Vrah” comes from the dark color of the rocks and the often foggy weather, which makes it look gloomy from a distance. It is part of Vitosha Nature Park—the first nature park in the Balkans, established in 1934.
There are several marked hiking trails leading to Cherni Vrah, the shortest of which is only 3 km and takes about an hour and a half to complete. It starts at the Aleko Hut, following the red trail markers uphill. The first section of the route is known as “The Wall” and is quite steep. It takes about 45 minutes to complete. After that, the trail to Cherni Vrah is quite wide and not as steep. It takes another 40 minutes or so to reach the summit. The route from Hotel Moreni remains the most popular choice, even though it is 2 km longer, as it is exceptionally easy.
Those who enjoy longer hikes can also try other routes to the summit. Well-marked trails lead to the summit from various sides of the mountain, offering a variety of experiences—from shorter, easier walks to longer, steeper hikes.
Another popular route runs from the Golden Bridges through the Kumata Hut to Cherni Vrah. It is 7.71 km long and takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete. From the southeast, starting at the Golden Bridges, follow the blue trail markers along the path to the right of the stone stream. The ascent to the Kumata Hut is relatively steep. However, to make it easier, the trail is like a path and runs entirely through the forest.
Shortly after the hut, the trail opens up into the open, then passes by the Konarnika and the old ski facilities, the Tri Kladenci shelter, and then emerges onto the ridge. The route continues past the Samara shelter, followed by the final ascent to Cherni Vrah.
Cherni Vrah can be reached from the southeast via the village of Zheleznitsa. The route is 8.62 km long and takes about 4 hours to complete. The trail begins on the western outskirts of the village of Zheleznitsa, just before the bridge over the river on the road to Samokov. There is a small tourist signpost on the right side of the road.
The first section is the most challenging because it is very steep. It leads to the Akademik sports complex below Golyam Kupen Peak. Beyond the complex, the trail winds through the higher elevations of Vitosha, where the ascents are not as steep. About 800 meters past the sports complex, the trail forks. To the right, a trail with yellow markings branches off, leading to the Aleko Hut. To reach Cherni Vrah, continue straight ahead following the blue markings. The trail cuts across Skoparnik Peak and shortly thereafter joins the trail from Yarlovo. From there, it’s about 1.5 km to Cherni Vrah.
