Hiking in Slovakia: Best Trails in the High Tatra Mountains

Hiking in Slovakia has a habit of sneaking up on people.

It does not shout about itself like the Alps, but quietly delivers dramatic mountain peaks, glacial lakes, well-marked trails and some of the best value mountain infrastructure in Europe.

For budget travellers, nature lovers and anyone planning a long weekend packed with fresh air, the High Tatras of Slovakia deserve a firm place on the shortlist.

This guide focuses on hiking in Slovakia with a realistic, first-hand approach.

Expect honest advice, clear trail suggestions, transport tips and practical planning for the High Tatras National Park, the Low Tatras and Slovak Paradise National Park.

Whether you want an easy walk around alpine lakes, a gorgeous hike to a mountain hut, or a challenging hike to high viewpoints, Slovakia delivers without draining your wallet.

Important note before you lace up your boots. Many high-level trails in the High Tatras are seasonally closed, usually until late May or early June.

Always check official park updates before publishing plans or heading out on the trail.

Why Hiking in Slovakia Is So Underrated

Slovakia sits in the heart of central Europe, right where the Carpathian Mountains arc across the continent.

The country offers one of the most compact yet diverse hiking landscapes in eastern Europe.

Within a few hours, you can move from gentle forest paths at lower elevations to snow-capped peaks, rugged ridgelines and remote valleys.

The High Tatras mountains form Slovakia’s most famous mountain range, straddling the border with southern Poland.

Despite being home to the highest mountain in the country, they remain remarkably accessible.

Trains, cable cars, mountain huts and small towns are all integrated into the hiking network.

You do not need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the majority of the hikes, but there are also strenuous hikes that will challenge even seasoned walkers.

Wildlife adds to the sense of adventure.

Yes, brown bears live here, but encounters are rare on popular trails and the park management is proactive. Stick to marked routes, hike during daylight and you will be fine.

Where Are the High Tatras and How Do You Get There

The closest airport to the High Tatras is Poprad-Tatry Airport. You can fly there direct from London, although most international travellers arrive via Kraków or Bratislava. As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best deals.

The city of Poprad is the main gateway for the Tatras and an easy starting point for any hiking trip. It has both a train station and good bus connections.

From Bratislava, trains take around four hours to reach Poprad. Book using Trainline.

From Kraków in southern Poland, buses and trains take roughly 3-4 hours.

Once in the mountains, public transport is genuinely excellent.

The Tatra Electric Railway links Starý Smokovec, Štrbské Pleso, Tatranská Lomnica and several smaller stops.

Trains run roughly every half hour, making it a good idea to base yourself near a train station and hike point to point without needing a car.

If you do drive (Poprad is a 3.5 hours drive from Bratislava, and even less from Krakow or Zakopane), each trailhead usually has a parking lot, though fees apply in peak season.

Using public transport saves money and avoids the stress of limited mountain parking.

Best Places to Base Yourself

Choosing the right base makes hiking in Slovakia much easier.

Štrbské Pleso is ideal for lake walks, access to Popradské Pleso and routes towards Rysy.

It feels resort-like but works well for first-time visitors.

Štrbské Pleso also appears on many most popular hikes lists for good reason.

Starý Smokovec sits lower and connects well by rail. It is a classic starting point for Hrebienok and several hut hikes. Starý Smokovec is practical rather than pretty, but its transport links are excellent. This is where I chose to stay.

Tatranská Lomnica is a solid option if you want easy access to Skalnaté Pleso, cable car routes and hikes towards Zelené pleso.

Tatranská Lomnica also has supermarkets, a grocery store, cafés and a more town-like feel.

These small towns all offer guesthouses, apartments and hotels at prices far lower than comparable Alpine resorts.

Recommended Places to Stay

Štrbské Pleso

Starý Smokovec

Tatranská Lomnica

Budget Tip: if you’re doing early starts for hiking in Slovakia, apartments with a kitchenette mean supermarket breakfasts and packed lunches, which can save you more than you’ll save by chasing the cheapest room.

You can also stay in rustic mountain huts (chata) like Zamkovského Chata or Chata pri Zelenom Plese, where you can enjoy a hot meal and a warm bed after a hard day on the mountains.

These huts are perfect for a long weekend or a multi-day hike and they’re also a great place to meet fellow travellers to swap stories with over a bowl of hearty soup.

Best Time for Hiking in Slovakia

The best time for hiking in Slovakia is generally from late June to late September.

July and August, when daytime temperatures typically range from 15-25°C, offer the most reliable access to high trails, but they are also the busiest months.

Late September is a personal favourite – crowds thin out, colours shift to autumn gold and temperatures are cooler, though daylight hours shorten.

Snow can arrive early, so checking the weather forecast is essential.

It’s essential to come prepared with waterproof gear, warm fleece layers, and sturdy, waterproof hiking boots.

Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, and rain or fog can appear suddenly, making proper equipment crucial for a safe and comfortable hiking experience.

Winter hiking is possible on selected lower routes and resort paths in the Tatras, but many high routes close.

A winter hike requires proper equipment and experience, so is not for the faint-hearted or the novice! Be warned.

Understanding Trails and Navigation

Slovakia uses a handy colour-coded trail system.

Red routes usually indicate main ridge trails or long-distance paths
Blue trail routes are longer day hikes
Yellow trail and green routes often mark shorter or easier connections.

A hiking map is strongly recommended whichever you opt for.

Offline apps work well, but paper maps are widely available in tourist offices.

Alternative routes are usually well signed on the ground.

Once again, always make sure to check the status of the trails before embarking on your journey, as some paths might be closed during winter or due to repairs.

Easy Walks and First-Day Hikes

Štrbské Pleso and Popradské Pleso

Štrbské Pleso appears in almost every guide to hiking in Slovakia, and that is justified.

This iconic glacial lake sits at 1,346 metres and makes a perfect first part of any trip.

From the Štrbské Pleso train station, a short walk takes you to the lake itself.

The loop around the water is an easy walk suitable for small children, with cafés and toilets nearby.

For something longer, walk from Štrbské Pleso to Popradské Pleso.

The route is well marked, mostly gentle and takes around 1.5-2 hours one way, through forests and along streams, crossing wooden bridges before reaching the sparkling lake.

Popradské Pleso is another beautiful mountain lake backed by sharp peaks and makes a great lunch stop. Located at 1,494m, it is surrounded by dense spruce forests and towering peaks.

After all that effort, you can sit and enjoy some warm meals at one of the two restaurants on the lake – but beware, no mobile data or wifi available in the middle of these mountains!

Walking back the same way or returning by train gives flexibility if you are short on time.

Hrebienok and Zamkovského Chata

From Starý Smokovec, take the funicular or walk uphill to Hrebienok.

From here, a blue trail leads through forest to Zamkovského chata.

This is a classic hut hike and a good idea for your next morning if legs are still warming up.

The path is wide and steady, taking roughly 30-45 minutes.

Zamkovského chata serves hot food and drinks and is a welcoming mountain hut for beginners.

Zamkovského chata is also a useful junction for longer routes deeper into the valleys.

Iconic Hut Hikes and Alpine Lakes

Zelené Pleso and Chata pri Zelenom Plese

Zelené pleso, also known as Green Lake or zelené pleso, is one of the most photogenic alpine lakes in the High Tatras.

The usual starting point is the Kežmarská Biela voda parking lot near Tatranská Lomnica.

Follow the yellow trail through forest and open valley to reach the lake.

The ascent is steady rather than brutal, making it a challenging hike, but manageable for most fit walkers. Expect around 3-4 hours one way.

At the lake sits Chata pri Zelenom Plese, one of the most atmospheric mountain hut locations in Slovakia.

Chata pri Zelenom Plese serves hearty food and drinks and is popular for overnight stays on a hut trek – famous for its traditional Slovak food, so don’t miss its bryndzové halušky (dumplings with sheep cheese)!

Staying overnight allows time to enjoy evening light on the peaks and a peaceful early start the next day.

This route combines glacial lakes, dramatic walls and a beautiful view almost the entire way.

Skalnaté Pleso from Tatranská Lomnica

Tatranská Lomnica offers easy access to higher terrain via cable car.

Taking the cable car up to Skalnaté Pleso saves significant ascent and opens up routes that would otherwise require a very long climb.

From Skalnaté Pleso, you can do a short walk around the lake or connect to higher trails.

This option suits those short on time or anyone wanting panoramic views without a steep climb.

Strenuous Hikes for Experienced Walkers

Rysy and Chata pod Rysmi

At 2,501m tall, Rysy is the highest mountain accessible by marked trail in Slovakia, often confused with the highest peak overall.

The trail starts at Štrbské Pleso and passes Popradské Pleso before climbing steeply along a red route.

Covering around 20km and more than 1,000m elevation gain, the round trip takes at least 8 hours, with the final hour involving steep rocky terrain with chains for support.

This is a strenuous hike with and significant exposure, although an experienced hiker should find it exhilarating rather than frightening.

The historic Chata pod Rysmi sits just below the summit and offers food, shelter and limited beds. At 2,250m, it’s the highest hut in the Tatras,

The reward is panoramic views across Slovakia and into Poland, with layers of mountain peaks and glacial lakes visible in all directions.

Gerlachovský štít

Gerlachovský štít is the highest peak in the High Tatras and the tallest mountain in the Carpathian Mountains.

It is not accessible via standard hiking trails and requires a certified mountain guide.

This makes it unsuitable for most travellers, but I thought it was worth mentioning as a symbol of the range’s scale.

Iconic Kriváň

Known as Slovakia’s “national mountain” and featured on Slovak euro coins, Kriváň (2,495m) is a challenging but rewarding climb.

The traditional route starts from Tri studničky (1,140m) and follows the green trail, taking about 7-8 hours round trip with 1,360m elevation gain.

While there are no mountain huts on the way, the trail offers stunning views of the Western Tatras and Low Tatras.

The final section involves some scrambling over loose rocks.

The distinctive crooked peak (Kriváň means “curved” in Slovak) is best climbed between July and September.

Pack plenty of water and snacks as there are no refill points along the way.

The Bystrá Lávka Pass

This highly challenging pass (2,300m) connects the Važecká Valley with Furkotská Valley, offering a less touristy alternative.

The circuit takes about 7-8 hours, starting from Štrbské Pleso.

You’ll pass the serene Wahlenberg Lakes and several waterfalls before reaching the narrow pass equipped with chains.

The route involves some exposed sections, but rewards hikers with views of both valleys and the chance to spot mountain goats.

The trail is typically accessible from late June to early October, depending on snow conditions.

Slovakian Hikes Beyond the High Tatras

Slovak Paradise National Park and Suchá Belá Gorge

Slovak Paradise National Park, also known as Slovenský raj or slovenský raj, offers a completely different hiking style.

Instead of high ridges, expect gorges, ladders, chains and wooden walkways.

Suchá Belá gorge and the suchá belá gorge route are among the most popular hiking destinations in the country.

This is a challenging hike in a different way, requiring comfort with ladders and narrow passages rather than long ascents.

The park is ideal for a next day trip if you have enough time beyond the High Tatras.

Low Tatras

The Low Tatras form a separate mountain range south of the High Tatras in central Slovakia.

Broader and less dramatic, they are nevertheless excellent for multi-day hike routes and quieter trails, including good winter hiking options, as well as skiing, kayaking, and ice cave exploration.

Less busy than the High Tatras during summer, they are excellent for experienced hiker types looking to escape crowds.

Practical Tips for Hiking in Slovakia

Generally, the trails in the Tatra Mountains are well-marked and locals are friendly enough to help with directions, while mountain huts are perfect for rest stops, welcoming all sorts of travellers and offering hearty meals and cosy accommodation.

Always carry layers. Weather changes fast, even in summer
Start early. Afternoon storms are common
Check the weather forecast daily
Respect trail closures. They exist to protect both hikers and wildlife
Food is available at most huts, but carry snacks just in case
Stick to popular trails if nervous about bears. Encounters are extremely rare near busy routes

Is Hiking in Slovakia Worth It

Absolutely!

Hiking in Slovakia offers great mountains, easy access, excellent value and a genuine sense of adventure without Alpine price tags.

From easy lake walks at Štrbské Pleso to strenuous hikes on exposed ridges, the country delivers variety in a compact area.

For a long weekend, you can cover Štrbské Pleso, Popradské Pleso, a hut hike and a scenic valley.

With more time, add Slovak Paradise National Park or the Low Tatras.

Slovakia is a great place for budget-minded walkers who want panoramic views, mountain lakes and well-run infrastructure without crowds or inflated costs.

Once you experience the High Tatras mountains, chances are you will be planning your return before you have even unpacked your boots!

Mini Travel Guide to Slovakia

Best Time to Go:

I think it’s best to visit Slovakia during the shoulder months of May / June or September to avoid the crowds and still enjoy some good weather.

How to Get There:

You can fly to Bratislava or Poprad Airport. As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best flight deals.

You can also train to Slovakia from many destinations across Poland, Czech Republic, Vienna and beyond. Find routes and book journeys through Omio.

Travel Insurance:

World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while travelling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Travel Money:

Slovakia uses the Euro for its currency.

I always travel with my Wise card, which makes spending abroad cheaper with real exchange rates and no sneaky transaction or ATM fees.

Wise cards works just like a debit card and link easily with Google and Apple pay. Grab yours here.

Best eSIM:

I recommend Holafly for unlimited data across Slovakia.

Get a 5% discount using the code: BIGWORLDSMALLPOCKETS

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Guide to Hiking in Slovakia's Tatra and Beyond

Hiking in Slovakia Best Trails in the High Tatra Mountains

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Eastern Europe, Europe, SLOVAKIA