Bobotov Kuk
Bobotov Kuk is the highest peak in Durmitor mountains (2523 meters) and this trip aims not only at conquering it but also gives a chance to get as most of Durmitor as possible in one day shot.
Trip starts from parking in front of Durmitor National Park building. First some stretch of asphalt needs to be covered after which Crne lake is reached. On the shore very characteristic view of Mali Meded peak and Savin Kuk peak can be observed. Then around the lake to enter the forest where the path will continue for about one hour gaining elevation.
At around 1800 meters of altitude more of limestone type landscape emerges and through a narrow passage we enter Katun Lokvice located at the exit of Lokvice lake basin. Path is distinct and convenient to walk, though from now a bit of strenous ascent begins turning west. Views are rewarding from now on.
Approaching Bobotov Kuk terrain gets more nasty, we need to manouver up and down giant rocks, sometimes jump here and there. The most annoying stretch starts at around 2200 meters beginning to ascend Velika Previja pass. Here it is best to hold on to left side as path is really crumbly and tries to slow down on each step.
From Velika Previja pass there is still 200 meters to go up, at first going along the foot of Bobotov Kuk south face, then up big plates to reach the ridge and from there meandring to the peak. Path is secured in two places, in zigzag meander wearing helmet is not an exaggeration if there are other tourists above. Bobotov Kuk lies in the heart of Durmitor and therefore the views from there are really great.
Return path goes back to Velika Previja pass but now it descends from southern side. The path gets really steep at some point and requires using of hands. It gives fantastic view on Zupci ridge and Sareni Pasovi looking like layered cake. Once Zeleni Vir lake is passed the ascent starts again to circumnavigate Zupci ridge. Path lies on marked trail.
Once south-western slopes of Bandijerna are reached the path turns north to Trojni Prevoj pass, from now on there is no marked path. From the pass the Bandijerna peak is easily accessible - sixth highest in Durmitor mountains with (2409 meters). Going down from Trojni Prevoj pass requires some attention and looking for most approachable way as the path dissolves at some point but the terrain is generally approachable. After passing Lokvice lake we are back in Katun Lokvice and can proceed on the same path we went up.
Chilly to moderate temperatures, sunny in the morning, cloudy in the afternoon, not that windy
To Bobotov Kuk using marked path, marking is good and path frequented so rather distinct and not that easy to lose. From Trojni Prevoj pass under Bandijerna and back to Lokvice no marking and only path disappearing in grassy passages. At some point it merges with trail to Terzin Bogaz but I don't remember the trail to be marked.
Just before Bobotov Kuk a bit of crumbly terrain, on the peak itself some securings.
Car driven to Durmitor National Park entrance.
This trip can be modified also to include Ledena pecina ice cave which will add approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to overall trip time.
This path is of lesser popularity, most of the folks start from R-16 road south of the peak. Therefore don't expect to meet a lot of tourist above Crne lake. I met no one from Katun Lokvice up.
There was no reliable water source on the way.
Links:Ice cave location
Vipers (mind your steps in grassy passages), loose rocks in final top stretches of Bobotov Kuk.
20L rucksack, trekking poles, helmet
