60.36 Bulgaria: Pamporovo: A hike from before Perlik Hut heading across a couple of mountains after passing an army base at Golyam Perelik.

The ground cover in this region softens the effect of the climbing.
It's only the start of a colorful beginning.
  

We finally understood the derivation of the phrase “Take a hike’. Actually, it’s more than a phrase as it contains a verb, making it a sentence. Hopefully, you’re not reading this for want of a grammar lesson as we’re probably wrong as well as quite boring. Why don’t I get back on the trail and take a hike. There you go: Already you can see an advantage to a reader of us ‘taking a … 

  Should one think about it, it all makes much sense. In Bulgaria particularly, and in many of the countries we’ve visited, we’ve come across outstanding wilderness areas. We’ve seen tree-filled forests in many parts of the world but would guess that this country is a leader in quantity and quality of trees and forests. So much so that there are many times we cannot separate the wood for the trees or the trees from the forests. What’s impressive is that the forests cover the land but are well-managed as gaps exist between trees allowing for fire prevention. 

  In addition, particular with the onset of winter, tree-felling has been active as the need for warmth is essential. While we cannot offer accurate information, it does appear that the land is not being abused but rather a balance exists between conservation, fire management and human survival. Frankly, as much as I love being in this country (a favorite), I have no desire to be present during winter...(continues below). 

The Piren range in the distance with Vihren and Kutelo on the right. Note the smooth curve connecting the two highest peaks. We spent nearly 3 weeks in Bansko, the town below these peaks.
Jenni stands on the peak of Mount Vihren, over 9,500 feet.
The distinctive curve between Vihren and Kutelo mentioned above, witnessed close by on another ski slope/mountain, Banderitza.
Let's go further toward the next mountain in a most beautiful, serene and unique environment. This trail underfoot, experienced infrequently in the country, combined with an atmosphere of tranquility far above ground level provided a feeling of extraordinary karma. (Too much Nepal remaining inside us).
Winter is on the way but still a few weeks distant.
Yet another view of the distinctive Snezhanka Tower, this time a first, we're towering above it.
Jenni about to perform her rocky impression.
She has to climb because I'm carrying the brunch which we're about to eat at that spot.
More than brunch, we absorb the simple but unique views.
Separating the wood for the trees and trying to identify the village...Stoykite?
  We have had a surprisingly large number of conversations on this trip with locals. It has added much to our experience including knowledge and entertainment. We’ve noticed quite a few people have spoken about the freedom they enjoy, the lack of restrictions in getting out into the wilderness and other aspects. Of course, growing up during the era in which we did, the countries behind the ‘Iron Curtain’ were often in our minds and subject to many discussions including the ‘cold war’ and possibility of a third world war. The irony is that I have thought and mentioned in our discussions that the former Soviet satellite states are growing in freedom while the Western nations are less free than in earlier years. Of course, it’s an opinion but look about and perhaps you’ll agree. 

  We find the land is extremely beautiful, often emitting a feeling of peace and tranquility. In some hikes, in addition, one is often overcome with a feeling of being alone in the world but with such inner joy that one almost doesn’t wish to complete the outing because the incredible feeling will end. The logic of the world is that a higher understanding balances one’s feelings, in this case, ending the hike and inner peace for the sake of avoiding physical collapse. 

  Perhaps the person who termed ‘take a hike’ enjoyed the same benefits we derive with much gratitude and suggested people should take to the wilderness and attain a taste of heaven. In the best interests of all our friends and acquaintances, (our enemies, too) we would suggest you ‘Take a Hike’. Where we enjoyed such privilege today, we know of no better means to inner-peace. 

Contrast of the two sides above the shallow canyon.
In the distance is Rohzen Observatory surrounded by...with the national flag fore.

In keeping with the style of showing icons viewed from different locations, the Rohzen Observatory from the boundary fence. Following a 3 mile hike up a mountain, we found the entrance closed, a guard preventing ideas of fence-climbing, although the website stated it was 'open'. Add another 3 miles return and it was still well worth the experience.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

And then the color descended (maybe ascended is appropriate) on the Rhodope Mountains.