Banówka (Baníkov)

Banówka stands at an altitude of 2,178 metres above sea level. It is a mountain that makes no allowances for mistakes. Whilst the Polish Western Tatras (such as Czerwone Wierchy or Wołowiec) are associated with gentle, grassy slopes, Slovak Banówka is a rocky fortress bristling with spires.

It is the highest peak situated right on the main ridge of the range. It forms a key point of the famous Roháče Ridge. Climbing it is your ticket to an elite group of hikers - it requires excellent fitness, a lack of fear of heights and confidence on chains.

Route: the Żiarska loop (challenging!)

The best starting point is the Žiarska Valley (the same one from which we ascend Baraniec). We recommend doing the loop to enjoy a variety of views and avoid descending via the most difficult section.

1. Stage 1: warm-up in the Žiarska Valley:
   • We set off from the car park at the valley’s mouth. We have about 1 hour 15 minutes along a tarmac road ahead of us to the Žiarska mountain hut. Tip: During the season, there are often paid minibuses/taxis running here, allowing you to skip this tedious section.
2. Stage 2: Ascent (green trail):
   • From the mountain hut, we head up the green trail to Žiarske sedlo. The ascent is steep and long (approx. 2 hours), but technically easy. The valley narrows, and the mighty walls of Roháč Płaczliwy rise above us.
3. Stage 3: Ridge (red trail) - key difficulties!
   • At the pass, we turn left (west) onto the main ridge.
   • We pass Hruba Kopa and Trzy Kopy. Note: This section (Žiarska pass -> Banówka) is a proper climb!
   • The terrain is very exposed. The ridge narrows to the width of a boot, with chasms several hundred metres deep on both sides. You have to negotiate rock chimneys, sharp crags and narrow grooves secured with chains. This section is reminiscent of the most difficult parts of Orla Perć or Świnica.
4. Summit:
   • After an exciting struggle, we reach Banówka.

Panorama: on the roof of the west

From a height of 2,178 metres, you can see everything.

• East: The entire length of the Roháče ridge we have crossed (Trzy Kopy, Roháč Ostry and Płaczliwy). Rysy and Gerlach loom in the background.
• North: Vertically dropping walls down to the Spalona Valley and the Roháče Valley. You can see massive glacial cirques.
• South: The vast Liptov Basin and the Low Tatras.

Return: escape to the valley (green trail)

From the summit of Banówka, we do not recommend returning via the same difficult ridge!

• Take the green trail down. The descent is steep at first, secured by a chain, but it soon levels out, taking you straight, quickly (and safely!) down to the Žiarska mountain hut.
• Bonus: Remember that you can ride an off-road scooter from the mountain hut to the car park!

Practical information

• Exposure (precipices): If you suffer from a fear of heights or lack experience on rock - do not attempt this route. Crossing Trzy Kopy and ascending Banówka requires a cool head. Turning back halfway along the ridge due to panic is extremely dangerous.
• Helmet: The terrain is unstable. A climbing helmet is strongly recommended.
• Weather: When the rock is wet (after rain), the chains on the ridge become a trap. Only go in safe, dry weather. In winter (1 November - 15 June) the route is closed.
• Insurance: Insurance cover for Slovakia is absolutely essential. A rescue operation from the Roháče Ridge almost always involves the use of a helicopter.