Climb Mount Olympus

Getting to the trailhead of Mount Olympus includes a 17km drive up the winding mountains north of the Greek town of Litochoro.

Once at the trailhead, begin the steady ascent up the Prionia trail. There are three official routes up Mount Olympus, but Prionia is the most traveled and easiest route to the top. Most of those climbing Mount Olympus complete the hike over two days, with an overnight stop at Refuge A that sits on a cliff top about halfway up the mountain.

The refuge provides hikers with a place to sleep and food. Those stopping by can either pay for a bunk in a dorm or pitch their tent outside. It is important to remember cash, as Refuge A doesn't accept any form of card.

Mount Olympus has multiple summits, and the most common is known as Skala. Skala is roughly 400 feet below the true summit known as Mytikas. Many hikers do not attempt Mytikas as it is a Class B rock scramble. However, for those with decent hiking experience, the final ascent of Mytikas is a relatively easy scramble to the top.

The top of Mytikas is decorated with the Greek flag and a climbers log book. Those who summit early enough in the day can challenge themselves to the summit-to-sea challenge by going from the summit of Mytikas (9,573ft) to Aegean Sea at sea level in a single day.

The trail to the top is well-marked and relatively easy. The difficulty of this hike comes in with the extreme elevation gain and mileage. No special equipment is needed, but good hiking boots and a walking stick are recommended by many hikers.