60.10 Slovakia: Some perspective in the Low Tatras, linking trails...and distorted use of language doesn't make the slopes less steep.

 We undertook two tough hikes in close proximity to each other although the trails, beginning- and end- points could have been on different continents should we have been seeking similarities. The scenery, however, was common as we were enjoying the same views mostly but from vastly different positions. A couple of miles makes a big difference. It's incredible how thick the vegetation is, the greenery consistent in its richness—it all looks most healthy and vibrant. The people (hikers), especially the two of us, not so vibrant after a few hours in the Low Tatras. The Low Tatras: Hmm! Now there's an oxymoron for you. 

  Should anyone mention that the latter are much less challenging than the High Tatras, I might lose it. Whatever 'it' is, I'm not sure but it's probably not worth taking a chance. Then again, while I played much contact sport, some really physical stuff, I don't remember anyone ever being intimidated by my 'manly physique and aggressive attitude'. On second thoughts, I'll withdraw the implied threat about the Low Tatras, act stoically should I receive such outbursts and try to move up and on. You never heard me mention anything about courage. 

  We decided to illustrate what we mean about perspective as we find it provides an understanding of how things fit in the Low Tatras, a place with the odd hill or two scattered about the countryside. 

Well into the first hike, we look down toward the starting point which is below the chata (hotel) on the left. The upper building is another cable station including hotel and restaurant, probably more than 3 kilometers distant from the camera. (Hike beyond General Stefanik Chata). The trail is within thick vegetation for about 60% of the way but with good visibilty above the low bushes. It was wonderful but an exhausting experience...' for a change'
The commencement point shown from the along the Chopok trail. It displays the building on the left in the above picture but from a different position, of course.
As mentioned above, Jen making her way along the tight trail in the very low Tatras. I could not even bring myself to use an uppercase 'L' in low. (Imagine what it will look like when the 'drought' is broken).
From the Myto Pod Dumbieron hike a few days before, we look across the valley up to Mount Chopok, which is a further 2,000 feet beyond the upper building mentioned in the opening picture. In fact, it is the building above the clear area (mid-right). The upper cable station is in view just below Chopok Peak.
A closer photograph of the Chopok upper station. The peak is to the right. As you can gather, the effort is required to reach the cable station followed by a hop-and skip to the peak.
On the third hike, we approach the upper cable station situate a little below Chopok Peak.
Arriving on Chopok Peak. You might inquire if this is such a tough hike (it is), why is the peak crowded? The answer is simple. We saw 6 other people on the trail over the day. However, the rest of the 'mountain climbers' take the cable car up-and-down some 2,800 feet and upon arrival at the upper station, a percentage walk to the peak. I would like to hear how many announce they hiked to the Peak of Chopok. I suppose I'm being a bit testy. I need to work on that trait.
Jen approaching the top, below Chopok.

From Chopok Peak, we view Besenova Lake (Zilina region), see below for relevance.
5 days before, we stopped at Besenova Lake on our way to accommodation in Myto Pod Dumbierom (Low Tatras). On that day, we went for for a short hike and brunch. Who knew?
Jenni's first walk since illness affected her for over a week.

Jen moving up a tough, never-ending slope, above Bystra. To the left, across the way, sits Mounts Dumbier and Chopok.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

Good Morning, Strba.
Absorb the tranquil environment.