Rysy (from the Slovak side)

The ascent to Rysy from the Slovak side (2,503 m above sea level) is the most popular and easiest route to the highest peak of the Tatras. Unlike the dark and precipitous north wall (the Polish side), the Slovak trail follows a sunny southern slope.

Although this is still a high-mountain hike requiring excellent fitness, the technical difficulties are much smaller, and there is a mountain hut along the way that offers a welcome refuge.

Trail description: the sunny climb

We usually start from Štrbské Pleso or from the parking area at the Popradské pleso electric railway stop.

1. Approach to Popradské Pleso: The first stage is a walk on asphalt or a forest trail to the mountain hut at Popradské Pleso.
2. Mięguszowiecka Valley: Farther on, the blue trail leads into the valley and then the red trail climbs in zigzags upward. We pass the scenic Żabie Mięguszowieckie Lakes.
   • Fun fact: On this section you can often meet porters (nosiče) carrying loads of 60-80 kg up to the mountain hut on their backs!
3. Chata pod Rysami: At 2,250 m above sea level stands the highest mountain hut in the Tatras. It is famous for its relaxed “Free Kingdom of Rysy” atmosphere, a bus stop as a joke, and… a toilet with a panoramic window over the abyss.
4. Summit push: From the hut to the summit is already close (about 45-60 minutes). We climb to Waga Pass (Sedlo Váha). The final section has secured chains, but they are much easier and shorter than on the Polish side.

The summit: the roof of the Carpathians

The summit on the Slovak side (2,503 m) is 4 metres higher than the Polish one (2,499 m). In good weather the views stretch as far as Budapest (theoretically), and certainly across hundreds of peaks of the Carpathians.

Differences compared with the Polish route (important!)

1. Winter closure: This is the key difference. The trail to Rysy from the Slovak side is CLOSED from 1 November to 15 June. Breaking the rule can result in a heavy fine.
2. Sun: The southern exposure means it is very hot on the trail in summer. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a large supply of water.
3. Insurance: In the Slovak mountains rescue operations are paid for. Before you go, make sure to buy day insurance covering rescue costs (it costs only a few zlotys and can save your wallet from a bill in the thousands of euros).