Through the Jaworowa Valley to the Lodowa Pass
Hello, adventure seekers! It’s time for one of those trails that will stay in your memory for a long time. This guide is for everyone who dreams of reaching the highest mountain pass in the Tatras that is accessible to tourists – the Lodowa Pass, rising at 2376 meters above sea level.
Time to complete: 6 hours – a solid, yet rewarding hike.
Who is this trail for?: This is a trail for tourists with experience in mountain hiking. While it doesn’t require specific technical skills, perseverance and physical fitness are essential.
Difficulty: The trail is not secured, and at times we enter steeper and rockier areas.
Season: The trail is closed in winter. It is best to go during the summer, from spring to autumn.
Highest point: 2376 meters above sea level – the Lodowa Pass is the highest of the Tatra passes accessible to tourists.
Views: A magnificent panorama of Gerlach, Łomnica, the Jaworowe Peaks, and a view of the Five Spis Ponds Valley.
End point: From the pass, you can descend to the Téry Hut in the Five Spis Ponds Valley, and from there continue your hike towards Stary Smokowiec.
The Adventure Begins: Jaworzyna Spiska
Your adventure starts in Jaworzyna Spiska, a small village located just 6 kilometers from the border crossing in Jurgów. It is here, at the bend of road 67, that the trail leading through the picturesque Jaworowa Valley begins. Whether you’re staying in Zakopane or Bukowina Tatrzańska, reaching this point should take no more than half an hour.
The first steps are taken on a wide road, with the sound of the Jaworowy Stream accompanying us on the left. This stream originates from the Żabi Jaworowy Pond, which we will pass by only at the end of our journey. As we continue, the towering peaks of Jagnięcy, Kołowy, and Lodowy Szczyt gradually emerge in the distance, signaling that our destination is getting closer.
Photo Gallery
Gałajdowa Clearing – A Prelude to Beauty
The Route to Żabi Jaworowy Pond
After about two hours from the start of the trail, we reach the Żabi Jaworowy Pond, located at an altitude of 1878 meters above sea level. From here, the Tatras rise majestically into the sky, and the Jaworowe Peaks create an impressive backdrop. We are now approaching the final stretch of the hike, where the terrain becomes steeper and the ascent more challenging.
Traversing the Tougher Section: Towards the Lodowa Pass.
The final stretch of the hike is a true challenge — steep and rocky, the trail becomes increasingly demanding. It is here, just below 2100 meters above sea level, that the towering walls of the Jaworowy Wall become more visible, and the rocky slopes reveal their raw beauty.
Tackling this section of the trail is no easy feat, but for anyone with a bit of determination and a passion for the mountains, it’s a journey full of rewards — breathtaking views of Łomnica, Gerlach, and the magnificent panorama that unfolds from the Lodowa Pass.
At the Pass: A Breathtaking View.
After conquering nearly 500 meters of elevation, which takes us about 1.5 hours, we finally reach the coveted Lodowa Pass. This extraordinary place offers an unparalleled panorama of the High and Belianske Tatras. The views are absolutely breathtaking — you can see the majestic Łomnica as well as the peaks of the Jaworowe Turni.
See where the peak is
Preparing for the Hike:
Before embarking on this trail, remember that a long and demanding hike requires proper preparation. Bring comfortable hiking boots, warm clothing, a supply of water and food, as well as a fully charged phone. Make sure you’re in good physical condition, as although the trail is not extremely difficult, its length and steep ascents can be quite challenging.
Summary:
The hike through Dolina Jaworowa to Lodowa Pass is an unforgettable adventure that combines the beauty of nature, challenges, and the satisfaction of reaching your goal. With each step, we uncover the secrets of the Tatras, and when we reach the pass, the reward of stunning views will make every effort worthwhile.
