Hiking Mount Olympus in Greece: Hike Options, Tips & Packing

Last Updated on September 30, 2026 by Tori Pines

Hiking Mount Olympus in Greece is an experience of a lifetime that you will never forget. Standing atop Mytikas, the highest peak at 2,918 meters (about 9,570 feet) is my favorite recent accomplishment, and one that I highly recommend to every adventurer. It’s no walk in the park, and there’s a lot to know before you attempt the trek! I’ve listed out every detail in this post below to help you be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime.

How long does it take to hike Mount Olympus?

There are several options for experiencing Mount Olympus, from 1 day hikes to multi-day treks. The classic semi-guided 2-day ascent is a fantastic choice for many adventurers, balancing challenge, scenery, and accessibility.

Before and after the hike you’ll need a comfortable place to stay in a closeby town like Litochoro. We stayed at Guesthouse Papanikolaou and Maria took very good care of us. She helped carry our luggage up the stairs, recommended restaurants within walking distance, and arranged a beautiful breakfast display every morning.

The Popular 2-Day Hike Olympus

We chose to summit the highest peak of the mountain with Trekking Hellas, and we couldn’t have done it any other way.

Day 1

Day 1 starts with a visit to their Mount Olympus office in Litochoro, the charming gateway town at the base of the mountain. You’ll meet your guide and group, get a safety briefing, and transfer to Prionia (around 1,100m / 3,600 ft), the main trailhead accessible by car.

From Prionia, you hike the well-marked E4 European trail through dense forests of pine, beech, and fir trees, with stunning views into the Enipeas Gorge. The trail is in good condition and gains significant elevation (about 1,000m on day one) over 3-4 hours (roughly 6km). You arrive at Spilios Agapitos Refuge (Refuge A) at around 2,100m, where you spend the night. The refuge offers basic but welcoming accommodations, meals, and a chance to rest and soak in the alpine atmosphere. They advertise wifi and have the password posted in the lobby, but don’t count on it! The whole time we were there the wifi was down, and we heard that it rarely works during the busy season. You’ll soon find that the views and the company are too good to be focused on your phone anyway.

Day 2

Day 2 is the big day. Your guide will be sure your group gets an early start for the summit push. You’ll head toward Skala peak (around 2,866m), then tackle the exposed scramble to Mytikas (2,918m) if conditions allow; using helmets, harnesses, and ropes for safety on the technical sections. The final ridge and scramble are thrilling but very demanding, with incredible exposure and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and the Aegean Sea far below. Weather and fitness determine if you reach the true summit or opt for nearby peaks like Skolio (2,911m). The full day involves 8-9 hours of hiking, including your entire descent back to Prionia and return to Litochoro.

Your total distance will be around 16-19km with roughly 1,800m of elevation gain and loss. It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding. The landscapes shift dramatically from lush forests to rocky alpine terrain, with unique flora, possible wildlife sightings like mountain goats, and that unmistakable sense of walking in mythological footsteps.

This 2-day option suits active people who want the full summit experience without committing to longer treks. It’s guided, perfect for those with some hiking background but who benefit from expert navigation, safety gear, and local knowledge.

Other Options for Hiking Mount Olympus

While the 2-day hike was ideal for us, there are variations:

One-day summit attempts: Possible for very fit hikers, but extremely demanding (10+ hours, big elevation). Not recommended for first-timers due to fatigue and weather risks.

Multi-day or longer treks: Some extend to 3-5 days, exploring more refuges, the Plateau of the Muses, or additional peaks. Great for slower paces or deeper immersion.

Easier day hikes: Trails like Enipeas Gorge offer waterfalls and milder terrain without the high-altitude push.

The 2-day version strikes the best balance for most visitors wanting that iconic summit feeling.

Which Tour Company to Book for Hiking Mount Olympus

There are several operators, but we booked with Trekking Hellas and couldn’t have been happier. They are a reputable, experienced company based right in Litochoro with deep local knowledge of the mountain. Their semi-guided 2-day trips are well-organized, safety-focused, and include transfers, refuge stays, and necessary equipment like helmets, harnesses, and ropes for the summit scramble.

Customer service leading up to the trip was excellent, they answered questions promptly and made us feel prepared. On the mountain, everything ran smoothly and punctually. We felt safe at every step.

But the absolute highlight was our guide, Apo (Apostolos). Apo is an incredibly experienced, knowledgeable, and professional guide who made the trip unforgettable. He was attentive to everyone’s pace and needs, shared fascinating insights into the mythology, history, flora, and fauna, and kept safety paramount while keeping the energy high by serving as our mountain DJ. His leadership and encouragement helped us push through the tough parts. We couldn’t have reached the summit without him. A huge shoutout to Apo and the entire Trekking Hellas team: you guys rock! If you book, ask for Apo!

Trekking Hellas made the logistics effortless so we could focus on the adventure. I highly recommend them for anyone considering this hike.

How to Train for Hiking Mount Olympus

The hike is demanding, especially the summit day with its steep ascents, rocky terrain, and scrambling. Elevation gain is significant, and the final sections require sure-footedness and a head for heights.

I’m no ultra-athlete. I stay active with regular workouts but nothing extreme. I completed it, and so can you with preparation. Train 4-5 days a week for 3-6 months prior. Focus on:

• Cardio and endurance: Stairmaster or incline treadmill for 30-45+ minutes. Hills and long hikes on weekends with elevation gain (aim for 8-10 miles and 1,000-2,000 ft gain).
• Strength: Legs, core, and hips. Squats, lunges, step-ups.
• Practice hikes: Use the AllTrails app to find local trails with elevation. Wear your hiking boots to break them in.

Don’t underestimate the altitude and exposure, and practice scrambling if possible. Also, read up on Greek mythology and Olympus history for deeper appreciation. Books or documentaries add magic to the journey.

Most importantly, listen to your body and consult a doctor, especially if you have asthma or other conditions.

Extend your trip

Get the most out of your time and make your trip to northern Greece a road trip! We had so much fun exploring this area of the country, where many tourists never visit! Our guide walks you through the best stops in the country and all of the details you need to know before planning a road trip.

Packing for Hiking Mount Olympus

Pack light but smart. For the 2-day trip, you’ll carry a daypack for essentials, and the refuge handles much of the rest. Weather can change fast: sunny, windy, cold at night, or sudden showers.

Sheets or a sleeping bag liner: If you’re staying at a refuge, you’ll need something to sleep on. They provide cots and warm blankets, but you need a layer of your own to cozy up in between them.

Hiking boots: Sturdy, broken-in ankle-support boots with good traction. Trail runners can work for some, but boots are safer for rocky sections.

Hiking socks: Wool blends (e.g., Darn Tough or Smartwool) for blister prevention and comfort.

Clothing: Moisture-wicking layers: 2-3 tops (short and long sleeve), hiking pants/shorts, fleece or warm midlayer, waterproof jacket and pants. Warm hat, gloves, sun hat.

Headlamp: Critical for early starts or navigating the refuge at night.

Water bottle/bladder: At least 2L capacity. Stay hydrated.

Backpack: 20-40L daypack with good fit and hip/chest straps.

Sun protection: High-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm. The sun is intense at altitude.

Rain jacket: Weather is unpredictable.

Personal items: Medications, first aid (blister kit, pain relievers), toiletries, power bank, snacks/energy bars, cash, passport/ID, toilet paper.

Trekking poles: Highly recommended for descents and stability.

Pack layers, you’ll sweat on ascents and freeze at higher elevations or evenings.

What It’s Actually Like Hiking Mount Olympus

Hiking Mount Olympus is hard but insanely rewarding. It’s one of the most memorable physical and emotional challenges I’ve done. The trail pushes your limits with steep, uneven paths and that final scramble, but the payoff is epic.

The forests on day one are magical, cool, shaded, with glimpses of gorges and peaks. Reaching the refuge feels like an accomplishment, with camaraderie among hikers and warm meals. Day two brings epic views, and that heart-pounding ridge to Mytikas. Standing on the summit, looking out over Greece, is surreal. Sign the guestbook and take it all in! And if you’re anything like me, you’ll cry when you make it to the top.

Apo’s guidance made the technical parts doable and safe. The porters and refuge staff work incredibly hard. The sense of achievement when you descend is immense, as you pass hikers on their way up.

It’s not impossible for the average active person, but respect the mountain: check weather, go with a guide to the summit, and train adequately. The history, views, and personal growth make every step worthwhile on one of Europe’s most iconic mountains.

Hiking Mount Olympus will stay with you forever. The struggle, the beauty, the stories: it’s pure magic. Book with Trekking Hellas, train smart, pack well, and embrace the adventure. Zeus would approve.