trails & routes

1) Classic summit route (most popular): Prionia → Refuge A “Spilios Agapitos” → Skala/Skolio → Mytikas

Start: Prionia (≈1,100 m)

To Refuge A (Spilios Agapitos): This is the main, most frequented approach and part of the E4.

Summit day: From Refuge A you go up to Skala and then:

Skolio (easier, non-technical peak) for big views, then back, or

Mytikas (highest peak) via the well-known scrambling section (“Kakoskala” / Louki variants). This part is more demanding and exposed.

Why it’s famous: it’s the standard “Olympus summit” itinerary with refuges and solid trail infrastructure.

2) Legendary gorge hike (scenic, lower altitude): Litochoro → Enipeas Gorge → Prionia (E4)

Start: Litochoro (≈320 m)

Finish: Prionia (≈1,100 m), following the E4 up the Enipeas river valley.

Why it’s famous: waterfalls, bridges, river scenery—often done as a long day hike, or as the “approach” before going higher.

Note: some sources have reported temporary partial access issues on sections of this route (reported as of Oct 2024), so it’s smart to check recent conditions before committing.

3) The other classic high route: Gortsia → Petrostrouga → Plateau of the Muses (Refuges)

Start: Gortsia junction (≈1,100 m)

Key stop: Petrostrouga Refuge (common overnight / rest point)

Then: Up to the Plateau of the Muses, where the route typically splits toward the two famous refuges:

Christos Kakalos Refuge

Giosos Apostolidis Refuge

Why it’s famous: it’s a stunning alpine approach with a very “mountain expedition” feel and iconic overnight options.

4) Fastest access to the high peaks (4×4 approach): Christakis Refuge → Skolio/Skala → Mytikas

Start: near/at Christakis Emergency Refuge (≈2,550 m) — typically reached by 4×4

From there it’s a relatively short line to Skolio/Skala and onward to Mytikas.

Why it’s famous: quickest way to get to the high zone—but still serious terrain higher up.

Quick safety reality-check (especially for Mytikas)

Mytikas is not just a walk-up: it includes scrambling with exposure; many people choose a guide for their first attempt.

Weather changes fast near Skala/Mytikas; plan early starts and check forecasts.