Cross-country skiing on Štrbské Pleso

Cross-country skiing on Štrbské Pleso is one of the most popular winter sports activities in the High Tatras. Štrbské Pleso, at an altitude of 1350 m above sea level, offers ideal conditions for lovers of cross-country skiing. Thanks to its excellent location, the cross-country skiing season starts here as early as December and lasts until April, which makes this location one of the longest accessible in Slovakia.

All performance categories of cross-country skiers - from beginners to professionals - will find their place at Štrbské Pleso. The trails are well maintained, with the possibility of artificial snow on shorter sections, and lead through beautiful mountain scenery that guarantees a great experience for every athlete.

Routes and starting points

At Štrbské Pleso there are several cross-country ski trails with a total length of about 27 km. These trails are of varying degrees of difficulty and are ideal for all lovers of cross-country skiing. The list of these tracks includes:

Cross-country skiing tracks

• Mlynicka meadow, cross country cross with a forest - 1500 m
• Upper stadium for children and beginners - 500 m
• Sprinter - 1600 m
• Andelova - 2000 m
• Around the Blind Lake - 2500 m
• Furkotska valley (blue) - 3300 m
• Furkotska valley (blue) - 3750 m
• Furkotska valley (blue) - 5000 m
• Furkotska valley (blue) - 6000 m
• Furkotská valley turn-off at the Jamská cesta crossroads - 7500 m
• Tatranská Štrba - Lieskovec/Švorcov Kút - 4000 m
• Old road Š.Pleso - Tatr. Štrba - 6500 m

This division allows cross-country skiers of different skill levels to choose the route that suits them best and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the High Tatras. The longer trails lead into the Furkot valley and offer breathtaking views of the high mountain landscape.

We recommend you keep an eye on the official website or local updates for the latest information and any changes in the status of the tracks, especially regarding conditions and availability.

Difficulty

Cross-country skiing at Štrbské Pleso offers trails of all difficulty levels, so there is something for everyone - from recreational cross-country skiers to professionals. Shorter and flatter trails, such as Mlynická lúka, are ideal for families and beginners. On the other hand, the longer circuits through the Furkot valley require a higher level of physical fitness and mastery of difficult climbs and descents.

Length of Route

The trails range in length from 0.7 km to 7.5 km. Running time depends on your fitness level and choice of trail:

• Short circuits can be completed in less than an hour.
• Longer trails through the Furkot valley can take 2-3 hours. 

• Total length of the tracks:

If we add up the individual tracks, we get the total length, which is substantially about 27 km. There are several tracks with different lengths.

• Different lengths:

The lengths given for the different routes within the Furkot valley (4 km, 5 km, 6 km, 7.5 km) indicate that these are separate routes that may have different elevation changes and conditions. For example, a longer route may contain more challenging sections or climbs, which may indicate that at a professional level it is a combination of all the available routes in the area.

The cross-country skiing area at Štrbské Pleso offers one of the longest cross-country skiing seasons in Slovakia, thanks to its high altitude. 

Services

In the area you will find a rental of running equipment, an instructor to teach running techniques and a cafeteria where you can relax and refresh yourself. 

How to get there?

You can get to the cross-country skiing area in Štrbské Pleso by car, which you can park in the central parking lot, from where it is a 10-minute walk. Alternatively, you can use the SKIBUS, which runs from the surrounding Tatra villages and resorts.

Important tips for cross-country skiing on Štrbské Pleso

‍Equipment‍

For cross-country skiing, prepare your cross-country skiing equipment according to your chosen style - classic or skating. If you don't have your own equipment, there are rental options nearby.

‍Time‍

Check the current weather forecast and track conditions before your visit. Higher altitudes ensure plenty of snow, but changes in the weather can significantly affect conditions on the slopes. It is also advisable to be aware of the occurrence of high winds or poor visibility conditions.

‍Technicalsnowmaking‍

Some tracks are equipped with technical snowmaking, especially the Andel track, which is popular with sports clubs and competitions. This ensures that even during the warmer periods, cross-country skiing conditions remain good.

‍Safety‍

If you are planning cross-country skiing on the frozen Štrbské Pleso, do not forget that this is an unofficial trail and entry is at your own risk. Make sure the ice is thick and safe enough to move on.