Horses’ Waterfall Hike in Rodnei Mountains, Northern Romania
Explore the Rodnei Mountains in Northern Romania and experience the Horses’ Waterfall (Cascada Cailor in Romanian, Lóhavasi vízesés in Hungarian). Notably, this waterfall is one of the tallest in the country and a breathtaking natural wonder. Resting at 1300 meters, the waterfall drops roughly 90 meters. Located near the Borșa Tourist Resort, this stunning natural wonder provides diverse experiences for both avid hikers and casual explorers. You can opt for one of the several scenic hiking trails or take the chairlift for easy access to this breathtaking destination. Additionally, the Horses’ Waterfall offers a captivating view and immerses you in the spectacular landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains. Whether you’re craving adventure or seeking tranquillity, visiting the Horses’ Waterfall is a must for anyone exploring Northern Romania.
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Where is the Horses’ Waterfall?
The Horses’ Waterfall is located in the Rodna Mountains, near the town of Borșa in Maramureș, Romania. The closest starting point to the waterfall is the Borșa Tourist Resort. From there, visitors can either hike or take a chairlift part of the way to reach the waterfall. For information on how to reach Borșa without a car, refer to my Hiking Pietrosul Rodnei Peak in Northern Romania article. It provides detailed options for car, bus, and train travel. Remember that Borșa is about 11 km from the Borșa Tourist Resort, so you will likely need a bus or taxi to get to the resort.
Hiking Details for the Horses’ Waterfall
Map source: mapy.cz
Roundtrip from the Red Triangle to the Blue Stripe (or Vice Versa)
We began our hike on the “red path,” following the red triangle markers. The distance from this starting point to the Horses’ Waterfall is approximately 4 km. Starting our hike in the afternoon, after 4 p.m., we later enjoyed the beautiful golden hour. Initially, the hike starts on a forest road and gradually ascends. At one point, there is a small wooden bridge on the left, which you need to cross. From there, continue along the route until you reach the waterfall.
At the waterfall, we took a snack break and captured some photos. The waterfall is one of the highest in Romania, surrounded by stunning scenery. Nearby, you will see a dirt road on the left that leads to the blue stripe path, taking you back to the Borșa Tourist Resort or towards the chairlift. Subsequently, we continued on that road, which eventually went through a forest and led to a beautiful valley surrounded by forests and high mountains in the distance. From here, you can also see the tourist resort. Finally, once the flat path ends, you will start descending until you reach the resort, covering around 8 km in total.
The following details are for an out-and-back hike:
Distance
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Duration
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Difficulty
Ascent
Alternative Routes
This hike can also be done in the opposite direction. Start from the Borșa Tourist Resort on the blue stripe path, then take the road on the right towards the waterfall. After visiting the waterfall, descend along the red triangle path until you return to the Borșa Tourist Resort.
Another option is to go up and down on the same path. For example, you can follow the red triangle trail to the waterfall, then turn around and return the same way. This can also be done with the blue stripe path, using the map and information from the round trip.
From the Chairlift to the Horses’ Waterfall
If you prefer a shorter hike, around 3 km in total, you can take the chairlift and then hike to the waterfall. The chairlift is located at the Borșa Tourist Resort. Ride the chairlift, which follows the blue stripe path below. Once you reach the top, continue on the blue stripe path until you reach a junction. Take a right turn into the forest, connecting with the red triangle-marked path that leads to the waterfall. The hike from the chairlift to the waterfall is approximately 1.5 km each way, making it a convenient and easy option.
The following details are for an out-and-back hike:
Distance
Duration
Difficulty
Ascent
Chairlift Opening Hours and Prices:
- Summer Hours (May-October): Daily 09:00-18:00
- Winter Hours (November-April): Daily 09:00-17:00
- Prices: One way: 5 EUR | Up and down: 8 EUR
When to Visit the Horses’ Waterfall?
The Horses’ Waterfall is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience. Spring brings vibrant blooms and robust water flow, though the trails can be slippery from rain. Summer offers warm, dry conditions, but it attracts more tourists. Autumn showcases stunning fall colors with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter transforms the waterfall into a breathtaking icy spectacle, though you’ll need to be prepared for challenging conditions. Always check the weather before your visit, as mountain conditions can change rapidly.
What should you bring on your hike?
Preparing for a hike involves packing essential items to guarantee safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Consider including these key items in your hiking gear:
- Hiking shoes
- Backpack
- Rain jacket
- Water/Food
- Sunscreen/sunglasses
- Headlight/flashlight
- Knife or multi-tool
- Bear spray
- Camera
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