Mount Olympus National Park | National Parks Association

Mount Olympus Overview

Mount Olympus National Park, located in northern Greece, is a revered natural and cultural landmark that embodies the awe-inspiring beauty and mythological spirit of the region. Established in 1938, it was the first national park in Greece, dedicated to protecting the rich biodiversity and historical significance of Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the Greek gods. The park spans an area of approximately 238 square kilometers (about 92 square miles), encompassing the highest peaks of Mount Olympus, including Mytikas, which rises to 2,917 meters (9,570 feet), making it the highest point in Greece.

The park’s landscape is characterized by its dramatic mountainous terrain, deep gorges, and pristine forests. The diverse ecosystems within Mount Olympus National Park support a wide array of plant and animal life. The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including over 1,700 species of flora, some of which are endemic to the area. This diverse plant life provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife, such as wolves, deer, wild boar, and a plethora of bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife observers.

Mount Olympus National Park offers a multitude of outdoor recreational opportunities, with numerous trails and routes that cater to all levels of hikers and mountaineers. From leisurely walks through the dense forests to challenging ascents towards the mountain’s majestic peaks, visitors can explore the natural beauty and serenity of the park. The Enipeas Gorge, with its scenic trails and picturesque waterfalls, is among the park’s most visited natural attractions.

Beyond its natural wonders, Mount Olympus National Park holds a profound cultural and mythological significance, serving as a symbol of the rich heritage and timeless legends of Greece. The park not only provides a sanctuary for wildlife and a playground for outdoor adventurers but also offers a space for visitors to connect with the ancient myths and the spiritual significance of Mount Olympus, making it a unique and enchanting destination.

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Mount Olympus National Park Trails

Litochoro to Prionia Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 11 miles (18 km) one way, 3,280 feet (1,000 meters)

Description: This trail connects the town of Litochoro with Prionia, offering hikers lush forests, stream crossings, and the enchanting Enipeas Gorge.

It’s a well-marked path that provides a moderate hike with beautiful views of Mount Olympus and its surroundings, making it a perfect introduction to the area’s natural beauty.

Prionia to Refuge A (Spilios Agapitos)

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3.7 miles (6 km) one way, 2,296 feet (700 meters)

Description: Leading from Prionia to Refuge A, this trail ascends through dense forests and alpine meadows, offering stunning views of the mountain and the valley below.

Refuge A provides a resting spot for hikers aiming to summit Mount Olympus or explore its high-altitude landscapes.

Refuge A to Skala Summit

Rating: Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2.5 miles (4 km) one way, 3,280 feet (1,000 meters)

Description: For those aiming higher, the hike from Refuge A to the Skala Summit presents a challenging but rewarding ascent.

Skala, one of Olympus’s easier summits to reach, provides spectacular views across the national park and the Aegean Sea, making it a popular choice for experienced hikers.

The E4 European Path (Section through Olympus)

Rating: Variable

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, as the E4 path crosses the park in sections

Description: The E4 European long-distance path crosses through Mount Olympus National Park, offering sections of varying difficulty.

Hikers can experience the park’s diverse terrains, from wooded valleys to high mountain passes, as part of a larger European hiking route.

Krevatia to Mytikas Summit

Rating: Very Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.9 miles (3 km) one way, 2,953 feet (900 meters)

Description: This trail is for serious mountaineers, leading to Mytikas, the highest peak of Olympus and Greece.

The route requires rock climbing skills and equipment.

The effort is rewarded with unparalleled views from the country’s rooftop and the thrill of standing on a summit steeped in myth and history.

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Sources

Britannica, Mount Olympus, https://www.britannica.com/place/Mount-Olympus-mountain-Greece, retrieved April 2024.
Climb Europe, Walking Around Mount Olympus National Park, https://www.climb-europe.com/WalkingGreece/Mount-Olympus-Walking.html, retrieved April 2024.
Discover Greece, Olympus Where the Gods Still Reign, https://www.discovergreece.com/en/mainland/macedonia/olympos, retrieved April 2024.
Greek Mythology, Mount Olympus, https://www.greekmythology.com/Myths/Places/Mount_Olympus/mount_olympus.html, retrieved April 2024.
National Geographic, Mount Olympus National Park, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/parks/olympus-greece/, retrieved April 2024.
Olympus, Olympus National Park Information, https://olympusfd.gr/, retrieved April 2024.