Hiking to the peaks: Kriváň

The hike to Kriváň starts from various starting points, the most popular being Štrbské Pleso and Tri studničky. Kriváň, 2 495 m high, is one of the most iconic peaks of the High Tatras and an important symbol of Slovakia. This majestic peak with its characteristic curved summit is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the magnificent panoramic views of the Tatras and the surrounding area.

The road to the summit passes through exposed sections and challenging mountain trails that are popular with mountain enthusiasts. Kriváň is known for its steep terrain and beautiful views from the top, which include the panorama of the High Tatras and other Tatra peaks. In the winter months, the trails are often covered with snow and ice, which increases the difficulty of the hike.

Difficulty

The hike to Kriváň is one of the more demanding hikes in the High Tatras. It requires good physical condition and suitable equipment, while offering an unforgettable experience of climbing one of the most beautiful peaks in Slovakia. The route includes exposed sections and steep climbs. In the winter months, the trails are often covered with snow and ice, which increases the difficulty of the hike.

‍

‍

If you are planning to climb Kriváň, you can choose from several starting points. Each of them offers a different level of difficulty and length of the hike:

1. Three Fountains

This car park is the most common and best starting point for the hike to Kriváň, as it offers the shortest and most direct route. The path leads through the Crossroads in Krivánské žľab to the top of Kriváň. The hike from Tri Studnička takes approximately 4 hours and involves an elevation gain of 1 355 m. This parking lot is accessible by car, on foot or by bus.

Accessibility:

• The Tri Studničky parking lot is relatively easy to access by car, which makes it a comfortable start of the hike.
• There is a marked trail leading away from the car park, so you can easily find your way around.
• The parking lot is located by the road that connects Štrbské Pleso with the village Podbanské. It is suitable for tourists who arrive by car and plan to start their hike from here.
• Public transport: if you don't have a car, you can get to the Tri Studničky car park using public transport. There are buses in the vicinity that run from the main tourist centres such as Strbske Pleso or Poprad. After getting off the bus, you need to walk the last stretch or take a taxi if available. Public transport may have a limited number of connections, so it's a good idea to plan ahead.

Difficulty: according to tourist maps and available data

• Route length: approx. 9.5 km (one way)
• Time: Approximately 4 hours (to the top), including return time the total time can be around 8 hours.
• Difficulty: High, with an elevation gain of 1 355 m. The route is very popular among tourists because of its scenic beauty and well-marked path.

Ascent times are approximate and may vary depending on personal fitness, fitness level and physical preparation of the individual. Time to rest and admire the views may increase the overall hike time.

‍

 Route from Tri Studnička

The road from Tri Studnička is very popular among tourists because of its scenic beauty and well-marked route. It is the most frequently used path to Kriváň because it is the best prepared for tourists.

2. Strbské Pleso

‍

The route from Štrbské Pleso is longer and more difficult compared to the route from Tri Studnička. The starting point leads through the Solisko Spa House, the crossroads under the Furkotská dolina, Jamské pleso, the crossroads in the Krivánské žľab to the top of Kriváň. The ascent takes up to 4:30 hours and includes an elevation gain of 1 290 m. This route is chosen by hikers who are looking for a longer and more complex ascent.

‍

Accessibility:

• Štrbské Pleso is very accessible by car or train. Parking is available near the hiking trails, although in high season the parking lot can be crowded.
• The route starting from Štrbské Pleso is well marked, which facilitates orientation during the hike.

How to get there:

• By car: Štrbské Pleso is accessible by car, with parking available near the hiking trails. However, it is a good idea to arrive early to secure a parking space.
• By train: You can arrive by train to Strbske Pleso, which is well connected to the railway network.

Difficulty:

• Length of the route: approx. 14 km (one way)
• Time: Approximately 6-7 hours (to the top), including return time the total time can be around 12-14 hours.
• Difficulty: moderate to high, with an elevation gain of 1 290 m. The route from Štrbské Pleso is longer and more demanding compared to the route from Tri Studnička. It leads through the Solisko Spa House, the Crossroads under the Furkotská dolina, Jamské pleso, the Crossroads in Krivánské žľab.

Important tips:

• Preparation: make sure you have plenty of water, food, and appropriate gear, including warm clothing and hiking boots.
• Weather conditions: check the current weather conditions before you start your hike and adjust your hike to the current weather conditions.

Route from Štrbské Pleso

The hike to Kriváň from Štrbské Pleso is an excellent choice for those who are ready for a longer and more demanding climb. It offers you the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent Tatra scenery and the unique beauty of the Tatras in their full splendour.

‍