The High Tatras, often called the ‘miniature Alps’ are a supreme mountain range located in the border between Slovakia and Poland. Being a part of the Carpathian Mountains, High Tatras includes ideal hiking experiences with towering peaks, crystal clear alpine lakes, valleys, and different species of animals. No matter if you are a professional hiker or tourist the High Tatras offer great sceneries and rather demanding but very much-worthy hikes. That is why they are a must-visit for every fan of the mountains and active recreation.
The High Tatras are the highest mountains in Slovakia, and the highest peak Gerlachovský štít reaches a height of 2,655 meters or 8,711 feet and is the highest point in the whole of Slovakia and the Carpathian range. While it is a relatively small park, there are sharp cliffs, steep terrains, and glaciated valleys that give it the look of the Swiss Alps.
In the High Tatras, many hiking treks start at Tatranská Lomnica, which is a picturesque mountain resort. Offering abundant tourist amenities, accommodation, and various types of cafés and restaurants, Tatranská Lomnica is one of the main access points to the national park and a convenient starting/ ending point for hiking. Here you can also join the cable car to Lomnický štít, the second-highest mountain in the High Tatras, and if the weather is good, the view of the surrounding territory is limited only by the horizon.
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Easy Hikes
For those who never hiked before or want to have a milder experience, there are a few nice easy trails with signs in the High Tatras leading to the alpine lakes and nice viewpoints.
Among the most frequently visited trails and probably the easiest one is the hike to Štrbské Pleso – a beautiful mountain lake that was created by a glacier. The trek around the lake is easy though it may be tiring for some people the trail does not contain tricky terrains making it suitable for families with young children or those who would want to enjoy the serene natural environment without the need for a physically challenging hike. The whole place is very scenic especially in the morning after a calm night and in clear weather, it is a real photographer’s dream to capture the reflections of the surrounding mountains on the water.
Moderate Trails
The most popular High Tatras hiking trek in this regard is the trail to Rysy, which is one of the tallest mountains of the Tatras at 2,503m (8,212ft). The trek to Rysy is a truly exciting undertaking that takes you up the rocky pathways, with beautiful alpine meadows to the left and waterfalls to the right. During the hike, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the most beautiful sceneries of the raw and striking terrain. This trail starts at Štrbské Pleso and should take a round trip somewhere between 6 to 8 hours. All in all, the hike to Rysy is quite a great experience despite the difficult terrain of the trail. Standing on the top of this mountain during a sunny day you may see Poland.You have an opportunity to admire the beauty of the High Tatras mountains.
The other great choice is a walk to Velické Pleso via Slavkovský štít ridge as well. This intermediate trail begins at Starý Smokovec and while it gets through the forested areas, it also leads through the rocky terrains with a stunning view of the valley below. The Velické Pleso is a beautiful glacial lake nestled in the mountains with breathtaking surroundings of a waterfall and there is no better place for some rest before heading back or exploring other trails.
Challenging Trails
The most difficult but rewarding hikes in the High Tatras are recommended for experienced hikers only. These are steep and long trekking adventures that lead to the summit of the mountain highest in Slovakia with the most striking panoramic views and serene feeling.
The route to the Gerlachovský štít, the highest mountain in the High Tatras, is considered to be a technical climb where climbers need to be prepared for both physical exertion and technical workout. Since the trek involves steep slopes and might have some dangers involved, it is required to get a certified guide for the trek. But for those who are prepared to take it on, trekking up Gerlachovský štít is an incredible feeling of grand isolation with an incredible view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Another strenuous walk is the one to the top of Lomnický štít, which is the second highest mountain of the Tatras. Contrary to the easier ascent to Lomnický štít, the hike up from Téryho chata via cable car to the top of the mountain with many obstacles on the path, rock faces, steep slopes, and ridges. On your way up, you get to cross several mountain lakes, and there is also an opportunity to encounter local wildlife like the chamois or marmots. The prize at the end is the stunning panorama of the High Tatras mountain range in both Slovakia and Poland as seen from the top of the ridge.
In conclusion, the High Tatras are easily accessible to provide hikers with an exciting trip all in one setting. If you are interested in a quiet walk along the picturesque lake or a climbing tour up the Tatra mountain, this area is for you. High Tatras are very popular and one of the most beautiful hiking destinations in the whole of Central Europe, thanks to its appearance, flora, and fauna.