In the heart of the spectacular Hășmaș Mountains, branching off the Bicaz Gorges route, a corner of wild nature is waiting to be discovered: the Bicăjel Gorges.
Bicăjel Gorges
In This Article
They are a place of uplifting adventure over the rocks, less known and less explored, but with breathtaking views.
Location, Access, and Distances
The Bicăjel Gorges are located in the Hășmaș Mountains, in northeastern Romania, in Neamț County.
They are formed by the Bicăjel stream, the main tributary of the Bicaz River. The area is surrounded by mountain scenery with cliffs and dense forests, offering travelers an unforgettable experience.
The most convenient way to reach the Bicăjel Gorges is by car.
There is a paved road up to the vicinity of the gorges, national road DN12C, a secondary national road in Romania that connects the towns of Gheorgheni and Bicaz. From the place called Gâtul Iadului (Hell's Throat) in the Bicaz Gorges, a footpath leads to the Bicăjel Gorges. You can park your car here.
Cloudy sky over the Bicăjel Gorges
You can also get there from Red Lake, along Strada Bicăjel, then following the trail markings.
Distances from the main nearby towns are as follows:
from Bicaz: 30 min (25.9 km) via DN12C
from Piatra Neamț: 1 hr 12 min (57.5 km) via DN12C and DN15
from Târgu Neamț: 1 hr 46 min (94.3 km) via DN12C and DN15C
from Reghin: 2 hr 22 min (136.0 km) via DN12/E578 and DN15/E578
from Praid: 1 hr 37 min (80.9 km) via DN12C and DN13B
from Red Lake: 14 min (7.4 km) via DN12C
from Bacău: 2 hr 10 min (113.0 km) via DN15
The Bicăjel Gorges are often associated with the famous Bicaz Gorges, from which they branch off. The two destinations offer a similar experience of wild nature and beautiful mountain scenery. A visit to the Bicăjel Gorges can be combined with a trip to the Bicaz Gorges for a complete experience of the region.
The Dobruja Gorges are considered the oldest gorges in Romania.
The Bicăjel Gorges Loop Trail
The Bicăjel Gorges Loop Trail is considered exceptionally beautiful by those who have hiked it. It follows the route: Podul Ungurilor – Bicăjel Gorges – Suspension Bridge – Turnul Negru – Panoramic Cabin on Piatra Poienii – Țifrea Saddle – Podul Ungurilor.
Trail Description
The loop trail starts at Podul Ungurilor, right next to DN12C, and follows the course of the Bicăjel stream deep into the wild beauty of the gorges, on the yellow stripe trail marking.
The path winds through this natural defile to the first suspension bridge, located 2-3 meters above the water. It's an impressive attraction that offers a unique perspective on the river and the surrounding landscape.
From here, the journey continues along the yellow cross marking toward the second suspension bridge over the stream, at a dizzying height above the ground.
The signs show 30 minutes to Turnul Negru. This is the most demanding part, with climbs and steep sections where in places you have to hold on to the fixed cables. Once at the top, you'll have an impressive view of the Bicaz Gorges.
Following the sign with a yellow dot and double circles, the trail leads to the Panoramic Cabin on Piatra Poienii.
It is perched on the rocks (the only other one like it in Romania is on Ghilcoș Peak), with views over the depths of the gorges, as well as the Bicaz Gorges, Piatra Altarului, and Suhardul Mic. The Salvamont mountain rescue service can give you the access code if you book ahead by phone. In addition, the telescope installed here offers fairy-tale views.
From here, the trail goes back along the yellow cross marking and continues toward Țifrea Saddle, a ridge with impressive panoramic views over the region.
Continue toward Red Lake on the yellow triangle marking, then switch to the yellow stripe marking.
Crossing the Bicăjel is unavoidable to complete the loop and return to Podul Ungurilor.
The Bicăjel Gorges trail is spectacular and offers an impressive variety: pastures, forests, paths, forest roads, solitary rocks, and stone walls forming spectacular defiles, springs, and torrents whose floods constantly reshape the valleys.
Bicăjel Gorges landscape
Additional Details
Trail Length: about 11 km
Difficulty: The trail is considered moderately difficult and is suitable for hikers in good physical shape with experience walking on rough terrain.
Hiking Time: The trail is estimated to take about 5 hours, depending on the hikers' pace and breaks at the viewpoints.
Other Trails Through the Bicăjel Gorges
Bicaz Gorges – Bicăjel Gorges – Drumul Surducului – Piatra Roșie Saddle – Red Lake Trail
Marking: Yellow stripe
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Distance: 5 km
Accessibility: Year-round
Description: This trail starts in the Bicaz Gorges, continues through the Bicăjel Gorges, and then follows Drumul Surducului to Piatra Roșie Saddle, with impressive panoramic views. The trail ends at Red Lake, offering a complete experience of the area's mountain scenery.
Bicăjel Gorges – Țifra Saddle Trail
Marking: Yellow cross
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Description: The trail starts in the Bicăjel Gorges and follows the yellow cross marking to Țifra Saddle. Of moderate difficulty, this trail offers a captivating experience of the natural beauty of the Bicăjel Gorges and their surroundings.
Nearby Attractions
The Bicaz River alongside the road in the Bicaz Gorges
Near the Bicăjel Gorges, tourists have the opportunity to explore a number of remarkable natural and cultural attractions. Here are some of the area's highlights:
Bicaz Gorges: The Bicăjel Gorges trail is accessed from the Bicaz Gorges.
Toaca Peak: It's located near the area and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Praid Salt Mine: A short distance from the Bicăjel Gorges, Praid Salt Mine is a remarkable tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the underground galleries, admire the salt crystals, and enjoy therapeutic treatments in the mine's salty air.
Red Lake: Located nearby, Red Lake is perfect for relaxing, boat rides, and nature walks.
Bicaz Monastery: Built on the bank of the Bicaz River, the monastery offers the opportunity to discover local spirituality and traditions.
Bicaz Dam: A few kilometers from the Bicăjel Gorges, Bicaz Dam is an impressive monument to Romanian engineering. With panoramic views over the lake and the Bicaz defile, it is a popular spot.
Borsec Resort: A short distance from the gorges, Borsec is an increasingly popular resort in Romania.
Weather in the Bicăjel Gorges
Weather in Bicaz, today and for the next 7 days:
Accommodation
Near the Bicăjel Gorges, you'll find a variety of accommodation options, from rustic guesthouses to modern villas, hotels, guest houses, and even campgrounds. You might consider staying in:
Bicazu Ardelean: This village, located right next to the gorges, is a convenient option for accommodation.
Lacu Roșu: Another nearby area, Lacu Roșu also offers numerous accommodation options.
Tarcău: It can be an attractive alternative for tourists who want to explore the Bicăjel Gorges.
Bicaz Chei: one option is Pensiunea Cheile Bicazului (see it on Booking.com), located about 25 km from Bicaz Dam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Bicăjel Gorges trail take?
The trail is estimated to take about 5 hours, depending on the hikers' pace and breaks at the viewpoints.
Conclusion
The hiking trail through the Bicăjel Gorges is a wonderful experience for those who want to explore this area. Adventure is guaranteed, and visitors will enjoy memorable landscapes and nature in all its splendor.
If you love nature and adventure, the Bicăjel Gorges are definitely worth exploring!
