Nosal

Nosal stands at 1,206 m above sea level. It is Zakopane’s “viewpoint balcony”. This summit offers probably the best effort-to-view ratio in the Tatras. It is an ideal warm-up on the first day of your stay, a quick walk on departure day or a romantic sunset outing.

The mountain is made of limestone and dolomite, which gives it its distinctive rocky look and sets it apart from the forested foothills.

Trail description: the Nosal loop

The best way to reach Nosal is to make a loop (do not return the same way). We recommend going from the Dam to Kuźnice:

1. Ascent (from Murowanica): We start at the dam below Nosal, near Jan Paweł II roundabout. The green trail immediately climbs steeply. The ascent is short, but intense - it runs over stone steps and roots. We gain altitude quickly, and the view of Zakopane opens up behind us.
2. Summit ridge: After about 30-40 minutes we reach the rocky ridge. This is where the magic happens - the path runs along an exposed (but safe) crest among white rocks.
3. Descent (to Kuźnice): From the summit we descend gently through the forest to Nosal Pass, and from there along a wide road straight to Kuźnice. In Kuźnice you can catch a bus to the centre or continue deeper into the mountains (for example to Hala Gąsienicowa).

Panorama

From the summit, despite the modest height, you can see the most important things:

• The mighty Świnica and jagged Granaty (High Tatras).
• Giewont seen from a very flattering angle.
• The broad Olczyska Valley and Bystra.
• A panorama of Zakopane and the Gubałówka range.

Practical information

• Slippery rocks: The limestone on Nosal is polished by the boots of thousands of hikers. After rain or in morning fog, the rocks become extremely slippery. We recommend caution and good footwear (trainers can be risky).
• Wind: A strong wind often blows on the summit ridge (halny), even when it is calm below.
• Winter: The trail to Nosal is almost always packed down, but because of ice, it is worth carrying microspikes in winter.
• Parking: Parking near the roundabout and the Nosal ski station is very expensive. It is best to walk from the centre (about 20-30 minutes) or take public transport to the “Murowanica” stop.