Through Dolina Suchej Wody – The Trail to Hala Gąsienicowa

In the Tatras, among majestic peaks and green valleys, there lies a trail that, though simple and unassuming, has its hidden charms and points of interest. This is the route through Dolina Suchej Wody to Hala Gąsienicowa. Seemingly ordinary, it’s perfect for those who appreciate peace, comfort, and discovering the subtle details of nature. For parents with children, beginner hikers, or cyclists wishing to legally traverse mountain paths – it’s the ideal choice.

History and Name of the Trail

“Sucha Woda” – a name that seems like a contradiction. The stream, visible here and there, accompanies you almost throughout the entire route. Sometimes it murmurs right next to you, sometimes mysteriously disappears under boulders, hiding in underground corridors. It is these vanishing streams that have given the valley such an intriguing name.

Duration and Key Information

  • Time to complete: 2 hours (from Brzeziny), 2h 30min (from Toporowa Cyrhla)
  • Elevation gain: ~500 m
  • Difficulty level: Easy
  • Highest point: Hala Gąsienicowa (1500 m above sea level)
  • Access: Parking in Brzeziny, accessible by car or bus from Zakopane.

Photo gallery

For whom is this trail?

  • Families with children: The gentle, wide path paved with stones allows even a trip with an all-terrain stroller.
  • Beginner hikers: The lack of steep sections and exposure makes the trail safe and undemanding.
  • Cyclists: Dolina Suchej Wody is one of the few places in the Tatras where cycling is permitted.
  • Those seeking peace: This is a less popular trail, perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds.

Starting point

Trail step by step

 

Brzeziny – Psia Trawka (approx. 45 min)
Starting from Brzeziny, a wide path leads through the forest. Along the way, you will cross the Dry Stream several times. Prepare to be surrounded by the sounds of nature – the rustling water and bird songs will accompany you. You will pass massive boulders resembling the bed of a dried-up river. After about 40 minutes, you will reach Psia Trawka, a small meadow with an interesting history. The name comes from the grass that once grew here abundantly but was useless to shepherds, as its leaves were too sharp for the sheep.

Psia Trawka – Hala Gąsienicowa (approx. 1h 15 min)
The path becomes monotonous but remains easy – it is still paved and continues through the forest. Halfway through, you will pass a mountaineering camp surrounded by an electric fence. The final curves signal your destination – the Murowaniec shelter. As you reach Hala Gąsienicowa, the views reward the entire journey: the majestic Kościelec, the impressive Granaty, and peaks surrounding the Dolina Czarna.

Interesting Facts:

  • Hala Gąsienicowa is one of the most beautiful mountain meadows in the Tatra Mountains, a place of inspiration for painters, poets, and nature lovers. Surrounded by the stunning peaks of the High Tatras, it attracts tourists both in summer and winter.

  • The mountaineering camp along the trail has a rich history. It is a place where climbers prepare to conquer more difficult Tatra peaks, often facing challenges associated with demanding climbing routes.

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