42.04: Poland, Zakopane: Kondracka Peak and Giewont Ridge...another treasure.
Jenni approaches the ridge after a very steep ascent. Polish trails, thus far, are not for strollers. Another 3,300 feet ascent. Being deep within the lush countryside is invigorating; the action over the mountains is powerful. The distinctive Giewont as viewed from much lower down on the trail. It can be seen from many parts, including the city, and makes for impressive viewing and scrambling. In Europe , we've noticed the national parks are set out differently from those in the United States. A basic difference is that in the latter country, one can drive into and about the park, allowing a person to reach most trailheads on wheels . Whereas in European parks we have hiked, and now referring to Poland specifically, cars are not permitted into the park. Therefore, one has to walk miles to reach a trailhead, making the distances longer and at times, repetitive. In fact, it takes twenty minutes on an incline to reach the entrance to the park from the parking lot. ...