Smokowieckie Siodełko and Cold Water Waterfalls Trail
If you dream of a beautiful, engaging hike in the Tatras, with breathtaking views, but don’t want to overexert yourself, the trail to Smokowieckie Siodełko and Cold Water Waterfalls is the perfect choice. This route offers natural beauty, attractions, and historical tidbits, all without requiring advanced preparation, but it promises unforgettable experiences. Get ready for an exceptional adventure!
- Difficulty Level: An easy mountain trail, perfect for beginners and intermediate hikers.
- Total Time: About 2.5 – 3 hours (with breaks).
- Trail Marking: Well-marked with red and green trail markers.
- Hiking: You can use the funicular to reach Siodełko, but walking is also a pleasant and not too challenging option.
- Equipment: Regular hiking shoes are sufficient for this trail.
- For Whom: This trail is ideal for families, beginners, and those looking for a relaxing mountain experience.
- Attractions: Funicular, views of Lomnica, Rainer Hut, Cold Water Waterfalls.
- Safety: Although the trail is relatively easy, be cautious around the waterfalls – there have been fatal accidents in the past.
- Season: Accessible year-round, but winter conditions may make the trail more difficult.
History and Attractions of the Trail
The hike begins in the picturesque town of Stary Smokowiec, known for its Tatra mountain atmosphere and excellent tourist infrastructure. It’s a place where you can explore a bit before starting your journey. Smokowieckie Siodełko (Hrebienok) is a scenic plateau at 1285 m above sea level, offering breathtaking views of Lomnica and Pośrednia Grania. You can reach Siodełko in several ways: on foot or using the funicular, which provides comfort and quick access to the spot. The funicular operates year-round (except for technical breaks), offering a fascinating journey through forests and mountains, with stunning views of nearby peaks.
Once on Siodełko, you can stop and admire the panorama, but that’s just the beginning! From this point, numerous hiking trails lead to various interesting places in the Tatras.
Photo Gallery
The Trail to the Cold Water Waterfalls
From Siodełko, we head towards the Cold Water Waterfalls, one of the region’s most beautiful natural treasures. The trail to the waterfalls follows a pleasant path that begins with a red-marked trail and then transitions to green. In under an hour, you’ll cover a 1.5 km (0.9 mi) route, passing by several stunning cascades of waterfalls.
The Cold Water Waterfalls are a series of small but impressive cascades, with the Great Waterfall being the most prominent, standing about 13 meters (42 feet) tall. Along the way, you’ll also pass the Small Waterfall, Hidden Waterfall, and Long Waterfall, the latter being visible only from above.
On your way, don’t forget to visit the Rainer Hut, a charming shelter with a museum dedicated to the porters (Tatra carriers). The hut has a unique atmosphere and is a must-see stop for anyone hiking this trail.
See where the peak is
Time Needed to Complete the Trail
The entire hike, depending on your pace and the number of stops, should take around 2.5 – 3 hours. Here’s a breakdown:
- Stary Smokowiec – Smokowieckie Siodełko (on foot): about 1 hour.
- Smokowieckie Siodełko – Cold Water Waterfalls (loop): about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Tips
- Bring a camera – the views of the Tatras and valleys are absolutely stunning!
- Remember water and snacks – although the trail isn’t long, it’s good to be prepared for a few short breaks.
- Check the weather – mountain weather can change quickly, so it’s essential to check the forecast before heading out.
Smokowieckie Siodełko and Cold Water Waterfalls is a trail that combines mountain relaxation, beautiful views, and easy accessibility. It’s a great option for a one-day hike that will certainly provide you with unforgettable memories!
