Wielka Siklawa

Wielka Siklawa is the largest, highest and most powerful waterfall in Poland. Water from the entire system of the Valley of Five Polish Lakes falls here from the edge of the lake basin in two or three streams (depending on the water level), over a height of about 70 metres.

The roar of the falling water can be heard long before the waterfall comes into view. It is a place where the power of the Tatras is almost tangible.

How to get there? (Roztoka Valley)

The road to the waterfall leads through Roztoka Valley (the green trail from Wodogrzmoty Mickiewicza). It is a long but beautiful walk along the valley floor. Only in the final section does the forest give way, and the mighty rock step from which Siklawa pours comes into view. The trail runs right next to the cascade - you can get very close (watch out for the spray!), which guarantees a free shower and unforgettable photos.

Rock slabs: beautiful and treacherous

The trail near the waterfall runs over so-called moutonnées - large rock slabs smoothed by the glacier.

• In sunshine: They are as comfortable as a pavement, and beautiful rainbows often appear in the spray.
• In rain: The slabs become extremely slippery. Many accidents in this area (slips, sprains) are the result of underestimating wet rock. If it is raining, consider the black trail bypassing the waterfall (it is steeper, but less slippery).

When is the best time?

Siklawa is a living waterfall. Its appearance changes with the weather:

• Spring / after heavy rain: The waterfall is huge, brownish and powerful. The roar is deafening.
• Summer: In the sun the water sparkles in a thousand colours. This is the best time for photos.
• Winter: The waterfall freezes, creating giant icefalls. WARNING: In winter, the green trail next to Siklawa is CLOSED and deadly dangerous (avalanches). Only the winter route is used then.