WITH A MIND OF STEEL TO THE SUMMIT OF GOLICA

Jesenice, 7 September 2024 – As part of the celebration of Jesenice Citizens' Day and the centenary of the Jesenice Mountaineering Club, the Mind of Steel Path was officially opened on Golica. Previously known as the Winter Path, it was renamed to honour perseverance, fortitude, and an unwavering spirit—values cherished by both mountaineers and SIJ Group employees. 

Egon Kepic, President of the Jesenice Mountaineering Club, Peter Bohinec, Mayor of Jesenice, and Branko Polanc, Production Director at SIJ Acroni, a part of SIJ Group, which also contributed to the opening of the trail through sponsorship collaboration, addressed the gathered attendees. The event was enriched by a vibrant musical program, featuring traditional songs about Golica.

The central part of the event—the inauguration of the Mind of Steel Path—was marked by Branko Polanc, representing SIJ Acroni and SIJ Group, with the following words: “There are several paths to the summit, but one of them awakens the mind of steel in us—and this path, formerly known as the Winter Path, will be called the Mind of Steel Path from today onwards. This route is not just a test of physical endurance but also of our inner strength. It’s not the easiest, but that’s what makes it rewarding—it pushes us to go beyond our limits and prove that we are capable of more than we might think. We can achieve even more when we work together. That’s why we are especially proud to co-fund the installation of solar panels on the Golica hut as part of our sponsorship.”

The Mind of Steel Path to Golica, a popular hiking destination in the Karavanke Mountains, is 1,217 meters long. It begins at an altitude of 1,205 meters, at the base of the freight cableway, and ends at the Golica hut, 1,583 meters above sea level. On average, hikers complete the trail in 50-60 minutes. The path winds through forests and low scrub and is considered one of the more challenging routes due to a 50-meter section that is only passable with pegs and wire ropes. This difficulty is why it has been renamed from the previously well-known Winter Path to the Mind of Steel Path.

The event also served as an opportunity to strengthen ties between the local community and the broader society, where many SIJ Group employees are active members of mountaineering associations. The new Mind of Steel Path is a symbol of strength and perseverance—values that are also central to our industry.

About the SIJ Group – Slovenian Steel Industry

SIJ Group is one of the leading producers of stainless and special steels in Europe. They are committed to global and European climate goals and operate in line with the circular economy principles. With their steel and steel products, they are the right partner for facilitating the green transition in Europe. They confirmed their sustainability orientation in April 2024 by obtaining a certificate according to the demanding ResponsibleSteel standard. They have thus been placed among one of the most responsible and sustainable steel producers in the world. Their largest companies are modern recycling steel mills, and their steel is recycled, as it is made from steel scrap. With 3,600 employees, they are one of the largest employers in Slovenia and a pillar of the Slovenian steel industry. They are one of the leading Slovenian exporters. About 85 percent of their revenues are generated in foreign markets.

Find out more at:
SIJ – Slovenska industrija jekla, d.d.
Mag. Sara Wagner, Head of Corporate Communications
Phone: +386 1 242 98 27
Mobile: +386 41 313 532
E-mail: sara.wagner@sij.si