Starorobociański Wierch

Starorobociański Wierch stands at 2,176 m above sea level. It is the highest peak of the Western Tatras lying on the Polish side (the higher Bystra is a border peak, but its summit lies in Slovakia). Its massive pyramidal silhouette is a symbol of this part of the mountains.

This is an option for mountain hikers who like long distances, open space and peace. There are no crowds like on Giewont, only wind, space and the majesty of the mountains.

Trail description: the great western loop

The most interesting way to reach the summit is by making a loop from Chochołów Valley, taking in the beautiful Ornak ridge.

1. Warm-up: From the car park at Siwa Polana we walk through Chochołów Valley (you can take the Rakoń tourist train or a bike to Huciska clearing, which saves time).
2. Approach to the ridge: At the mountain hut we turn onto the yellow trail to Iwaniacka Pass, and then take the green trail up to the Ornak ridge. This is one of the most beautiful parts of the route - we walk along a broad ridge with Kominiarski Wierch on one side and Starorobociański on the other.
3. Final push: From Siwa Pass we have the final, very steep ascent to the summit of Starorobociański Wierch. The elevation gain really burns the legs here!
4. Return: From the summit we continue along the main ridge (red trail) to Kończysty Wierch, and from there the green trail via Trzydniowiański Wierch back to Chochołów Valley.

Panorama

The view from the summit is breathtaking and covers 360 degrees:

• East: The High Tatras (Świnica, Rysy, Krywań) look like saw teeth from here.
• West: The huge, rocky Roháče (Slovak Western Tatras).
• Below: Deeply cut valleys (Starorobociańska, Pyszniańska) and visible ridge furrows (characteristic breaks in the terrain).

Practical information

• Fitness: This is a trip of almost 20 km and nearly 1,500 metres of ascent. It requires stable weather and reserve energy. We do not recommend it as a “first time” Tatra hike.
• Dogs: Note! Although you can walk with a dog along the floor of Chochołów Valley, dogs are forbidden above the mountain hut (including on the Starorobociański route).
• Winter: The trail is highly avalanche-prone (especially in the area of Żleb pod Banią and Kulawiec). In winter it is a route only for advanced hikers with avalanche equipment.