Following the Squirrels: A Peaceful Escape in Făgetul Clujului
Tucked away in the peaceful Făget Forest of Cluj-Napoca lies a hidden gem for nature lovers and curious wanderers alike: the Squirrel Trail (Traseul Veveriței), a 4-kilometer thematic route designed to immerse visitors in the vibrant world of forest animals, especially the ever-charming squirrel. Officially opened in 2021 as an educational initiative, this trail winds gently through one of Cluj’s most cherished natural spaces, offering a unique blend of ecological discovery and serene woodland escape.
Unlike many mainstream hiking paths, this trail remains a quiet oasis, shielded from the city’s daily bustle, perfect for those seeking a reflective walk surrounded by nature. Along the way, hikers are guided by informative panels and small wooden houses installed in trees, which provide shelter for local wildlife, squirrels, birds, and bats alike. Designed not just for exercise, but for learning and observation, the trail invites visitors to slow down and notice the intricate life thriving in the forest canopy and underbrush.
The Făget Forest, part of the Natura 2000 European protected areas, is renowned for its biodiversity, hosting over 80 species of birds, numerous mammals, and a remarkable variety of plant life. What makes the Squirrel Trail truly special, however, is its focus on coexisting with nature. With each step, you are walking alongside unseen forest dwellers, learning their habits, and understanding their roles in maintaining the delicate balance of this ecosystem.
Guided by Ria the Squirrel: The Journey Begins
At the start of the trail, I was greeted by Ria Veverița, the squirrel mascot who serves as your guide throughout the path. Ria invites visitors on a gentle 4 km walk through the Făget Forest, where one can discover fascinating facts about the animals living there. Throughout the trail, specially designed wooden houses have been installed in the trees, serving as shelters for squirrels, bats, and birds. These houses offer much-needed refuge, especially for young animals or during harsh weather.
The idea behind these shelters is simple yet powerful: they provide a safe space for animals in areas where old trees or natural hollows are scarce. As you walk, you can spot these little houses about 10–20 meters from the trail, often marked with signs. It felt like being part of a hidden world, peeking into the daily lives of forest creatures who usually remain unseen.
Along the Path: A Journey of Quiet Discovery
As I followed the path deeper into the forest, I came across several panels, each offering a glimpse into the lives of the animals that call Făgetul home. One of the panels introduced the bats that inhabit the forest. I did not expect to see any during the day, but knowing they were there at night, gliding silently through the same trees, gave me a new appreciation for the hidden life all around me.
Further along, another panel focused on the tree-dwelling mammals. The squirrels, of course, were the stars of the trail, but I also learned about creatures like the dormouse and the marten. I found myself imagining them moving quietly through the branches, going about their lives high above, unseen but present.
Then I reached the section about birds, and here the forest truly came alive. Birdsong filled the air, robins, woodpeckers, and others whose calls I could hear but not always identify. It added a lively soundtrack to the walk and reminded me of how vibrant and full of life this forest really is.
At one point, I kept running into trees marked with the number 108, which for any Lost aficionados out there might feel oddly significant, though I have no idea why these signs were there, it definitely added a mysterious touch to the hike.
Forest Calm and a Deeper Connection
What made this trail so special was the sense of calm that settled in the deeper I went. The panels were interesting, but I found myself putting my phone away and just enjoying the sounds and sights. The trees swayed gently, the air was cool and fresh, and it felt like I was miles away from the city, even though Cluj was just beyond the hills.
Later panels talked about the larger animals: deer, foxes, and wild boars. I didn’t expect to see any, but again, just knowing they shared this space made the forest feel even more magical. The final panels also reminded me how important it is to protect places like Făgetul Clujului, which is part of the Natura 2000 network. Despite being so close to the city, this forest holds an incredible diversity of life.
Final Reflections: Why I Will Be Back
I truly loved hiking the Squirrel Trail and felt a deep sense of peace and connection with nature as I went along. The care put into creating such an informative and ecologically mindful path is evident, and it made my experience both enriching and enjoyable. I will definitely be back to explore it again, each season surely reveals something new.
If you are visiting Cluj-Napoca, I highly recommend taking a few hours to hike this trail. It is not currently listed on the AllTrails app, but I plan to propose adding a map there to help more people discover it. Access is easy, with parking available at the bottom of the hill, and taking an Uber to the trailhead is also a convenient option. Whether you are a local or a visitor, this trail is a perfect retreat into nature and a reminder of the quiet wonders that forests like Făget still hold.
