Hiking in the High Tatras: Best Trails for All Levels

The High Tatras (Vysoké Tatry) are the crown jewel of Slovakia’s natural landscape. These majestic mountains, part of the Carpathian range, offer alpine peaks, glacial lakes, dense forests, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone who just enjoys a scenic walk, the High Tatras provide unforgettable trails for all levels of ability. Here’s a guide to some of the best hiking trails in the High Tatras, from easy strolls to challenging ascents.

Štrbské Pleso to Popradské Pleso
This is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly hikes in the Tatras. The well-marked trail takes you from the picturesque lake of Štrbské Pleso through forest paths to Popradské Pleso, another beautiful alpine lake.

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours one way
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Scenic lakes, peaceful trails, chance to spot wildlife

Hrebienok to Rainer’s Hut and Waterfalls
Starting from Hrebienok, which is accessible by funicular from Starý Smokovec, this hike is ideal for families or those looking for a short and scenic trail. You’ll pass the Obrovský Waterfall and reach Rainerova chata, the oldest hut in the Tatras.

• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Highlights: Waterfalls, historical mountain hut, panoramic forest views

Téryho Chata (Téry’s Hut)
This is a moderate to challenging hike that rewards you with alpine scenery and the chance to visit one of the highest mountain huts in the Tatras. Starting from Sliezsky dom or Tatranská Polianka, the trail passes Velické pleso and leads to rocky terrain and Téryho chata nestled in a valley surrounded by five small lakes.

• Duration: 5–7 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard
• Highlights: Remote mountain setting, high-altitude hut, rugged beauty

Rysy Peak (2,503 m)
The highest peak in the Slovak Tatras accessible by a marked hiking trail, Rysy offers an epic climb for experienced hikers. The trail begins at Štrbské Pleso, passes Chata pod Rysmi (a mountain hut), and leads up steep rocky paths to the summit, which marks the border between Slovakia and Poland.

• Duration: 6–8 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Hard
• Highlights: Highest marked peak, unforgettable views, border-crossing summit

Skalnaté Pleso to Lomnické Sedlo
Accessible via a cable car from Tatranská Lomnica, Skalnaté Pleso is a great starting point for various hikes. One beautiful option is the hike to Lomnické Sedlo, a mountain pass with panoramic views and high alpine terrain.

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Mountain cable car experience, high-altitude walking, fantastic photography spots

Zelené Pleso (Green Lake)
This is one of the most beautiful lake hikes in the Tatras. The trail starts from Biela Voda, near Tatranská Lomnica, and leads to Zelené Pleso, a vibrant green lake surrounded by dramatic peaks and cliffs.

• Duration: 5–6 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Striking green lake, peaceful mountain hut, birdwatching opportunities

Tips for Hiking in the High Tatras

• Trails are well-marked, but always carry a map or use a hiking app
• Wear proper hiking shoes—the terrain can be rocky and uneven
• Trails above a certain elevation are typically open only from mid-June to October, due to snow and safety
• Mountain huts (chaty) along the trails offer food, drinks, and shelter—but bring cash and check opening hours in advance
• Weather changes quickly, so always check the forecast and carry layers
• Consider using the electric train (TEŽ) to travel between towns like Štrbské Pleso, Tatranská Lomnica, and Starý Smokovec

Whether you’re hiking to a quiet alpine lake or challenging yourself to a rocky summit, the High Tatras offer some of the most breathtaking hiking in Central Europe. With trails for every level and every type of traveler, it’s the perfect destination to reconnect with nature and experience the wild beauty of Slovaki