Five Scenic Hiking Trails Between the Polish and Slovak Tatras

Exploring the Most Beautiful Cross-Border Hikes

Cross-border hikes offer a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural exchange. These trails allow hikers to experience the stunning landscapes of neighboring countries while enjoying the convenience of a shared sky. Here are five of the most beautiful cross-border hikes that provide unforgettable experiences.

1. Rysy, High Tatras

Rysy is an iconic peak located directly on the Slovak-Polish border. It is the highest point in Poland at 2,503 meters and one of the most accessible “binational” summits in the Tatras. Hikers can choose to start from either side, making it a truly exceptional route.

Hike from Slovakia

The Slovak trail begins at the Štrbské Pleso resort and leads past the Popradské Pleso lake to Chata pod Rysmi — the highest mountain hut in Slovakia. The hike takes around 4 to 5 hours and, while challenging, is manageable for fit recreational hikers. The hut is ideal for a rest or an overnight stay, particularly for those aiming to reach the summit at sunrise.

Hike from Poland

On the Polish side, the trail starts at the Palenica Białczańska car park. You’ll walk past Morskie Oko, widely regarded as one of Poland’s most beautiful mountain lakes, and then continue past Czarny Staw. The final stretch includes steep, rocky sections equipped with chains for safety.

2. Kasprowy Wierch, Western Tatras

Kasprowy Wierch (1,987 m) sits on the main ridge of the Western Tatras, precisely on the border between Slovakia and Poland. It is a popular destination for both hikers and skiers and is easily accessible from either country.

Cable Car Ascent from Poland

The easiest way to reach the summit is from the Polish side, via a modern cable car departing from the Kuźnice station in Zakopane. The ride takes around 20 minutes and includes a stop at Myślenickie Turnie. At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views without any physical effort.

Hike from Slovakia

For those who prefer a traditional hike, routes from Slovakia start in the valleys of Tichá Dolina or Kôprová Dolina. These are less frequented and more rugged trails that require good orientation skills. The reward is a quieter, more intimate experience of the mountains. From the summit, you can continue along the border ridge eastward toward the peaks of Świnica and Zawrat, or westward to Giewont. Both options offer spectacular views of valleys on both sides of the border.

3. Czerwone Wierchy, Western Tatras

The Czerwone Wierchy massif (with Krzesanica as the highest point at 2,122 m) consists of four prominent peaks forming a ridge that runs directly along the Polish-Slovak border. These hills are among the most scenic hikes in the region thanks to their sweeping views, gentle terrain, and atmospheric charm.

Hike from Poland

The most popular approach is from the Polish side, starting in the villages of Kościelisko or Zakopane. Most hikers begin in Kościeliska Valley or Mała Łąka Valley. Well-marked trails lead through forest and alpine meadows to the ridge. The ascent via Małołączniak takes around 3 to 4 hours. This side is easily accessible by public transport from Zakopane.

Hike from Slovakia

On the Slovak side, a quieter trail leads through the Tomanová Dolina valley, starting near the Žiarska Chata hut or from parking areas around Zverovka. Though longer, the route offers solitude and beautiful mountain scenery. Depending on the chosen path, the ascent takes roughly 4 hours.

4. Volovec, Western Tatras

Volovec (2,063 m) rises prominently on the border ridge of the Western Tatras and is a favorite among hikers from both countries. The summit rewards visitors with magnificent views, a relatively easy climb, and a calmer atmosphere than the more dramatic High Tatras.

Hike from Poland

From the Polish side, the most scenic route begins in the long Chochołowska Valley. The trail leads over Grześ and Rakoń before reaching Volovec. It’s a well-marked, picturesque hike that takes about 4 to 5 hours. A mountain hut in the valley provides a convenient rest stop.

Hike from Slovakia

On the Slovak side, the most common routes start in the valley of Roháčska Dolina or Jamnícka Dolina, with the Zverovka area as the usual trailhead. This ascent is more physically demanding, especially via the exposed Ostrý Roháč ridge — but it’s also more adventurous and rewarding. Depending on fitness and route, the hike takes around 4 hours.

5. Tri Koruny, Pieniny

Tri koruny (Trzy Korony – 982 m) is one of the most recognizable peaks in the Pieniny National Park, which straddles the Slovak-Polish border. Though much lower than the Tatras, the peak offers a stunning panorama and a unique atmosphere. Thanks to its accessibility, it’s an ideal hike for families with children.

Hike from Slovakia

The Slovak trail begins in the village of Červený Kláštor, situated right on the Dunajec River. The route starts by crossing a pedestrian bridge that connects Slovakia to Poland. From there, a well-maintained trail winds through forest to the summit. The hike takes 1.5 to 2 hours and is manageable even for less experienced hikers.

Hike from Poland

On the Polish side, you can start in the villages of Krościenko nad Dunajcem or Sromowce Niżne. The Krościenko route is slightly longer, passing through quiet woodland and varied natural scenery. Access to the summit’s viewing platform requires a small fee — but the panoramic views are unforgettable, taking in the full Dunajec meander, Slovak peaks, and distant corners of the Pieniny range.