Hike to Grześ, Rakoń, and Wołowiec from Chochołowska Valley

Early November – you can feel the crisp mountain air and the Tatras are starting to dust themselves with snow, making the trails look like paintings created by nature itself. It’s time to grab your backpack, put on your comfortable boots, and head out on one of the most scenic hikes in the Western Tatras – to Grześ, Rakoń, and Wołowiec, starting from Chochołowska Valley. This trail offers unforgettable views, a bit of adrenaline, but also peace in the midst of mountain spaces.

  • Duration: approx. 2h 45min.
  • Difficulty level: moderate – suitable for people with a fair level of fitness.
  • Highest point: Wołowiec (2064 m).
  • Elevation gain: approx. 960 m.
  • Recommended preparation: comfortable, waterproof boots, rain jacket, water, and snacks.
  • What to bring: a camera – the views are absolutely stunning.
  • No trail insurance – be mindful of your safety, especially when descending.
  • Scenic value: the trail offers exceptional views of both the Polish and Slovak parts of the Western Tatras.

Introduction: Welcome to Chochołowska Valley

We start at Chochołowska Polana, which is already an attraction in itself – wide meadows, the sound of streams, and towering snow-covered peaks of the Tatras in the background. It’s an ideal base for trips, and the trail offers a full range of views – from valley landscapes to the rugged Tatra ridges. This is a perfect trail for both beginners and those more experienced in mountain hiking.

Photo Gallery

The Route – From Chochołowska Polana to Wołowiec

After about an hour of walking through meadows, where yellow trail signs will guide you through the forest, the path starts to ascend steeply, passing the picturesque Bobrowiecki Żleb (Bobrowiec Gorge) with its stream. The initial climb might feel a bit tiring, but the reward is just around the corner – a view of Kominiarski Wierch (1829 m) amidst the trees. Continuing, the trail enters the pine zone, and the final part leads to the summit of Grześ (1653 m), which is marked by a large wooden cross and offers a fantastic panorama. From here, you can see Trzydniowiański, Starorobociański, and Jarząbczy peaks, as well as the Slovak mountains towering above the Rohacka Valley.

Time to reach Grześ: approx. 1 hour.

See where the peak is

From Grześ to Rakoń – The Next Step in the Adventure

From Grześ, we descend slightly to Łuczniańska Pass and begin the ascent to Rakoń (1879 m). The path leads across the wide ridge of Długi Upłaz, with gradually disappearing pine trees and stunning views around you. Although Rakoń is not the highest peak on this route, it offers incredible views and a great sense of accomplishment after crossing such a scenic area. The rugged, rocky ridges of the Rohacz mountains, including Ostry Rohacz (2088 m) and Płaczliwy Rohacz (2125 m), make a striking contrast to the gentler landscape of the Western Tatras.

Time to reach Rakoń: approx. 1 hour.

Rakoń to Wołowiec – The Final Stretch with an Exceptional Panorama

After reaching Rakoń, the trail descends to the pass, from where we start the final climb to Wołowiec (2064 m). This is the steepest part of the hike, but it doesn’t pose any technical difficulties. The last section can be challenging, especially due to the loose gravel underfoot, but once you reach the summit of Wołowiec, all the effort is rewarded by the view. From here, you can enjoy a 220° panorama that includes both Polish and Slovak parts of the Western Tatras. The whole trail you just completed unfolds before you, surrounded by massive mountain ridges – the Rohacze, Jarząbczy Wierch, and many other beautiful peaks.

Time to reach Wołowiec: approx. 1 hour 45 minutes.

Time and Preparation:

The entire route takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes, including breaks to enjoy the views, rest, and take photos. The trail covers a 960-meter elevation gain, making it challenging but accessible for most hikers. It’s important to note that although the trail is not extremely difficult, higher sections can be slippery, especially in wet weather. Proper footwear and clothing are essential for a comfortable hike.

Who should choose this trail?

Who should choose this trail? This is a perfect route for those seeking beautiful mountain views without extreme challenges. If you love photographing wild nature, expansive panoramas, and high-mountain landscapes, you’ll be amazed. It’s also a great option for families with school-age children who already have some experience hiking in the mountains.

The hike to Grześ, Rakoń, and Wołowiec is a journey through the heart of the Western Tatras – full of majestic peaks, rugged ridges, and picturesque valleys. If you have a sense of adventure, this trail will not only give you a physical challenge but also a sense of spiritual fulfillment!

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