To Rohatka, Polski Grzebień, and Mała Wysoka via Dolina Staroleśna
If you dream of a mountain trail that offers not only a challenge but also unforgettable views, this route through Dolina Staroleśna in the Slovak High Tatras is made for you. It’s a demanding yet incredibly scenic trail that will take you over two impressive peaks: Mała Wysoka (2429 m a.s.l.) and Polski Grzebień, from which you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the entire High Tatras. Expect exposed ascents and technical sections with chains and steps. Prepare yourself for diverse landscapes that will accompany you for 5 hours and 45 minutes of hiking.
- Hiking time: 5 hours 45 minutes
- Difficulty level: Medium-high
- Technical difficulty: Chains, steps, exposed sections
- Scenic attractiveness: Very high, with views of the High Tatras, Lodowy Szczyt, Rysy, Mała Wysoka, and Gerlach
- Highest point: Mała Wysoka (2429 m a.s.l.)
- Elevation gain: approx. 1140 m
- Proper gear: Be sure to bring good hiking boots that can handle rocky and steep sections. It’s also advisable to pack mountain gloves, as they’ll make it easier to grip the rocks when using the chains.
- Clothing: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. The mountain weather can be unpredictable, so pack a waterproof jacket and a warm layer.
- Water and snacks: Bring plenty of water and some high-energy snacks like protein bars. Hiking on mountain trails requires a steady energy supply.
- Planning: Since the trail is quite demanding, take your time and stop for breaks, especially in scenic spots by the streams or near the lakes. You’ll find several good resting spots, like near the Zbójnickie Hut.
Who is this trail for?
This trail is definitely for hikers with intermediate to advanced experience, who enjoy technical challenges and are not afraid of steep ascents. While it is not the most difficult route in the Tatras, it requires good physical fitness and experience in navigating mountain trails with more difficult sections. If you’re an experienced hiker and don’t mind rocky gullies, exposed paths, and the need for chains and steps, you’ll be amazed by this trail!
Photo Gallery
What will you encounter along the way?
Your adventure begins at Smokowieckie Siodełko, where the first 2 hours take you along a pleasant forest trail. Along the way, you’ll encounter warning signs about falling rocks – so be cautious! With each step, the landscape transforms: you’ll pass through dwarf pine forests, climbing higher into the valley. You’ll cross the Staroleśny Stream and then proceed through Warzęchowa Valley with a beautiful lake at an altitude of 1834 m a.s.l.
A highlight on this section is the cascades of Staroleśny Stream, a stunning place to stop and take a break. After more chains and steps, you’ll reach Baniasta Turnia, and beyond that, you’ll discover the most beautiful views of Mała Wysoka and Rohatka – a pass from which you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panorama of the Tatras.
See where the peak is
Trail difficulty
The most difficult parts of the trail are the descent from Rohatka, where you’ll encounter steep, rocky sections requiring the use of chains. Be especially careful here – this descent can be dangerous, especially when wet or slippery.
On the other hand, the ascent to Polski Grzebień is less steep but requires stamina, as after 5 hours of hiking, your legs might begin to feel tired. But once you reach Mała Wysoka, the final section is relatively easy, with only small rocky difficulties. The effort is well worth it, as the summit offers one of the best panoramic views in the High Tatras, including a close-up of Gerlach – the highest peak in the Tatras.
Interesting facts
- In Dolina Staroleśna, you’ll find fascinating lakes, such as the Zmarzły Staw (Frozen Lake), whose surface is often covered with ice even in summer!
- Mała Wysoka offers one of the best vantage points in the Tatras, with views of both Polish and Slovak peaks. From here, you can clearly see Pośrednia Grań and the impressive Gerlach and Łomnica.
Summary
The trail to Rohatka, Polski Grzebień, and Mała Wysoka is a real treat for experienced hikers. It demands physical fitness, preparation, and a bit of courage on the more difficult sections, but in return, it offers some of the most breathtaking mountain views. With each step, you get closer to summits that offer panoramic views – a true feast for the senses!
