Szpiglasowy Wierch (via Ceprostrada)

Szpiglasowy Wierch stands at 2,172 m above sea level. It is an absolute hit of the High Tatras. This summit is famous for one thing: the panorama. Standing on top, you have two of the largest Tatra valleys beneath your feet at the same time: on one side the “well” of Morskie Oko and Czarny Staw, on the other the vast plateau of the Valley of Five Polish Lakes.

For many hikers it is a natural “next step” after reaching Giewont or Czerwone Wierchy, and before attacking Rysy.

Trail description: the great Szpiglas loop

The most beautiful variant is a loop. We recommend the direction: Morskie Oko -> Szpiglas -> Five Lakes.

1. Ceprostrada (approach): From Morskie Oko we set off on the yellow trail, known as the “Ceprostrada”. It is a wide, comfortable path made of huge boulders (legend says it was built for Lenin, although that is a myth).

   • The trail climbs in gentle zigzags, traversing the slopes of Miedziane.
   • The ascent is long and tiring physically, but very easy technically (no precipices and no chains on this section).
   • Along the way we have a great view of Mnich from the back.

2. Summit: After reaching Szpiglas Pass, it is worth continuing another 15 minutes to the summit of Szpiglasowy Wierch. This is where the famous 360-degree panorama opens up.

3. Descent to Five Lakes (chains): The character of the hike changes here. The descent from Szpiglas Pass to the Valley of Five Lakes is secured with chains.

   • This is a short rocky section that may be difficult for people afraid of heights, but in dry conditions it is manageable for a fit hiker.
   • Farther on the trail leads comfortably to the mountain hut in Five Lakes and back through Roztoka Valley to the car park.

Why is it worth it?

• Two worlds: You will see the contrast between the dark, raw surroundings of Morskie Oko and the sunny, water-filled Valley of Five Lakes.
• Safety: This is one of the safer peaks in the High Tatras. The only difficult section is the chains from the Five Lakes side. The approach from Morskie Oko is accessible to almost anyone with a decent fitness level.

Practical information

• Distance: Do not be fooled by the “ease” of Ceprostrada. The whole loop from Palenica is almost 25 kilometres of walking. It is a full-day trip (8-10 hours).
• Direction: You can go both ways. We recommend going up from Morskie Oko (long, gentle ascent, less tiring) and descending to Five Lakes (shorter descent).
  • Note: Descending chains is psychologically harder than going up them. If you are very afraid of exposure, do the loop the other way around (Start: Valley of Five Lakes -> up the chains -> descent to Morskie Oko).